By Olivia Vernon
The Middleton Cross Plains Area School District is committed to providing high-quality, developmentally appropriate early learning opportunities for our youngest learners. We currently offer a voluntary half-day 4K program for all 4-year-old children in the District, grounded in a play-based approach that supports early academic, social-emotional, and emotional development through hands-on learning experiences. Morning and afternoon sessions are held Monday through Friday at District schools and community partner sites and follow the District calendar.
Beginning in fall 2026, the District will expand its early learning offerings with the launch of a full-day 4K pilot program at Northside Elementary School for families in the Northside and Sauk Trail attendance areas. This pilot program is an addition to our existing half-day 4K program and is designed to support families who prefer a full-day early learning experience.
“Our full-day program offers expanded opportunities for extended learning and play-based exploration for our youngest learners, while continuing our strong commitment to developmentally appropriate 4K instruction,” said 4K/Early Learning Principal Katie Kavanaugh.
The full-day program will follow the same play-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum as the half-day model and will include a daily core rotation of art, music, physical education, or library time. Eligible students will have access to transportation and food service, including breakfast and lunch. Students participating in the pilot will also benefit from access to encore classes, further enriching their school experience.
During the 2024 to 2025 school year, the District conducted an evaluation of its 4K program to better understand family needs and access to early learning opportunities.
“We learned that some families were unable to participate in 4K due to the half-day format or the need for wraparound care,” Director of Elementary Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment Dr. MaryBeth Paulisse shared. “Exploring a full-day 4K option allows us to better meet the needs of families in our community and engage families who were previously unable to access the program.”
The full-day 4K pilot provides opportunities for deeper learning, stronger relationships, and the development of routines and self-regulation skills.
“The extended day mirrors the structure of kindergarten, helping children build stamina, independence, and confidence,” Dr. Paulisse shared. “The program also helps reduce childcare gaps by offering families a predictable schedule of high-quality learning, supporting equity and helping to close early opportunity gaps.”
Spots in the full-day 4K pilot program are limited. If applications exceed available space, placement will be determined through a lottery system. Families who live in the Northside or Sauk Trail attendance areas and have children who turn 4 by Sept. 1, 2026, are eligible to apply and are encouraged to do so before March 1, 2026.
Registration for the half-day and full-day 4K programs is open.