Welcome to Carthage Preschool, a place where curiosity thrives, laughter fills the air, and every child is valued for who they are. Our free preschool isn’t just a classroom—it’s a warm, nurturing space where young learners build confidence, discover new possibilities, and take their first steps toward a bright future.

Carthage School District is expanding free preschool opportunities to better serve our community! If you have a little one eager to explore, now is the time to apply!

To be considered for a Carthage Preschool program, you must be a resident of the Carthage School District or a Carthage R-9 employee. Additionally, you must complete the Preschool Interest Form using this attached link.  The Preschool Interest Form is not an enrollment form—it helps us place students in their preferred program. Children must be 4 years old and toilet trained by July 31, 2025, to attend Preschool at Pleasant Valley Elementary. 

Spots are limited, and completing the interest form does not guarantee placement. The deadline to submit the Preschool Interest Form is April 15, 2025. 

If your child has not completed a screening with Carthage Parents as Teachers, please call 417-359-7012 to schedule one.

Pre-entry screenings are standard practice for any child entering preschool or kindergarten at a public school. Screenings are conducted by the Carthage Parents as Teachers team. No preparation is needed for your child to attend the screening and is administered at no cost. The Carthage School District educators will evaluate things like hearing, vision, and developmental milestones through play activities.

Call 417.359.7012 to schedule your appointment.  

Eligibility requirements:

• Preschool – child must be four years old on or before July 31, 2025

Please bring:

• Proof of Residency (Rental Contract, Real Estate Contract signed by all parties, Utility Bill, Deposit Receipts, Bank Statement, Payroll Check, Driver’s License, or employment documents)
• Birth Certificate (Birth Certificate, Hospital Document, Passport or Affidavit)
• Immunization Records
• Social Security Card (optional)
• Medicaid Card (if applicable)
• Custody Papers (if applicable)