Educare Central Maine’s free preschool program, in partnership with the Department of Education, welcomes children from three to five years of age and teaches them the skills they will need for success in kindergarten.

Experienced, highly-qualified teaching teams implement Head Start philosophies in a developmentally appropriate curriculum that supports school readiness by developing language, literacy, math, social-emotional, physical, and other skills necessary for successful learners. A safe and supportive learning environment, and collaborative work with parents and families, promotes knowledge, interaction, and creativity.

Classes are held during the school year, Tuesday through Friday, with a choice of a morning or afternoon session. Meals include breakfast and snack for the morning session and lunch and snack for the afternoon session. Menus follow federal and state guidelines and are prepared by our on-site professional chef and crew.

Remote education and family services are also available in the form of outdoor at-home meetings and/or virtual settings.

Priority is given to families who qualify for state or federal subsidy programs with limited slots available for over-income families.

Family Engagement

Family engagement is a major focus of Educare Central Maine.  We know that parents/caregivers are their children’s most important teachers and we strive to build relationships with families to support each child’s learning.  Some opportunities for parent/caretaker involvement include:

• Input into Curriculum
• Coffee Talks
• Parent Ambassador Group
• Policy Council
• Training, Support, and Networking events
• Volunteering
• Planning Committees
• And MORE!