Trinity to partner with Blueprints for preschool program
Trinity Area School District plans to expand its preschool programs after receiving a one-year Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA) Stronger Connections grant.
Last week, the school board voted to hire Blueprints to operate two preschool program classrooms at Trinity South and Trinity East elementary schools for the 2025-26 school year. The $458,623 cost of the program is fully funded by the grant.
Superintendent Dr. Michael Lucas said the preschool program will allow the district to serve an additional 72 students and will operate morning and afternoon sessions.
Currently, 36 students participate in fully funded preschool programs at Trinity.
The program’s goal is to improve early childhood education for preschool-age children, and provide the support needed to start their educational journeys.
“We’re very fortunate to get this grant. The school board is focused on the youngest learners, and studies show the impact of preschool on successful schools,” said Lucas, noting the program aims to provide high-quality early childhood education for district students, regardless of income.
The program will ensure students are kindergarten-ready, as research finds high-quality preschool programs provide children with several benefits, sets them up for future academic success, and improves their social skills and emotional development.
The program is provided at no cost to eligible children and families.
Lucas said the total amount of the competitive BSCA grant was $660,000, and the school district has earmarked the remainder of the funds for pre-kindergarten summer and evening camps, mental health support, and adult evening classes.