Early Learning

Tacoma Public Schools offer five preschool programs at 32 locations across the district. Each program is unique while providing common curriculum that helps prepare students for success in kindergarten and beyond.
 
Whitman offers the following programs onsite:​
 

Head S​tart

Head Start is a federally funded no-cost preschool program that promotes school readiness of preschoolers in a safe, healthy, enriching learning community.  In every Head Start classroom, social and cognitive development is enhanced through the provision of educational, health, nutritional, social and other services to enrolled children and families.
  • FREE preschool
  • 4 days a week, Monday-Thursday
  • Class time - 3 ½ hours, 9:00 am to 12:30 pm
  • 3 years old before September 1
  • Enrollment based on income eligibility
  • Breakfast and lunch are provided for students.
  • Available only to children living within TPS boundaries.
  • Find out more information by calling the Head Start office at 253-571-1948


Peer Inclusion Preschool

This language rich program allows children to play and learn together with peers who have developmental delays. Preschoolers will learn a variety of skills that will prepare them for kindergarten and beyond.
  • FREE preschool
  • 4-5 days a week, Monday-Friday (every other Friday off)
  • Class time - 2 ½ hours
  • AM Session 9:00 am to 11:30 am • PM Session 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm
  • Extended time (9:00 am to 12:00 pm) at some locations
  • 3 years old before April 1
  • Available only to children living within TPS boundaries
  • Find out more information by calling 253-571-1049