By 1808Delaware
Delaware City Schools has opened applications for a preschool program in which children learn not only from teachers, but also from one another. The district began accepting peer-model applications October 1 for the 2027-2028 school year at Woodward Elementary School. Peer models are typically developing children who attend class alongside preschoolers receiving special-education services.
The current 2026-2027 peer-model program is full. The new application is for placements beginning next school year. Read the eligibility rules and apply through the district’s official page. Delaware City Schools
One Classroom With Two Kinds Of Learning
Peer models provide examples of language, play, turn-taking, and social interaction for classmates with identified disabilities or delays. The district describes the exchange as beneficial in both directions. Children receiving special-education services have opportunities to strengthen communication, behavior, social-emotional development, and play skills. Peer models can build relationships, confidence, leadership, empathy, and acceptance while receiving preschool instruction. The broader preschool program follows Ohio Early Learning Standards and includes general-education classrooms, special-education classrooms, and itinerant services. Every classroom has a lead teacher and at least one educational assistant. Delaware City Schools
Who Can Apply
Applicants must be at least 3 years old by August 1, 2027, and fully toilet trained by the start of school that August. The program is limited to children who live in the Delaware City Schools district and children of district employees. Open enrollment is not available for peer-model placements.
Classes meet Monday through Thursday at Woodward Elementary School. The morning session runs from 8:40 AM to 11:25 AM and primarily serves 3-year-olds and younger 4-year-olds. The afternoon session runs from 12:30 PM to 3:15 PM and primarily serves older 4-year-olds and 5-year-olds.
The current tuition is $175 a month, or $1,575 for the school year. The district says that rate is subject to change for 2027-2028. Parents also provide a daily snack. Transportation is available to preschool students through the district.
Timing Matters For Placement
Offers will be sent by email beginning March 1, 2027. Placements generally will be offered in the order applications were submitted, based on date and time. Children of Delaware City Schools employees receive priority when space is available. Families receiving an offer must complete registration within two weeks or the place will be offered to the next child on the waiting list. Children already enrolled as peer models do not need to apply again and may continue if tuition balances have been paid.
A Different Route For Developmental Concerns
The peer-model application is not the correct entry point for a child whose family suspects a developmental delay. Delaware City Schools instead offers free Child Check screenings for children ages 3 through 5 when a family has a significant concern involving communication, cognition, social-emotional or behavioral development, language, motor skills, or adaptive skills.
The district’s Child Check page lists the next screening for October 9 at Woodward Elementary, 200 South Washington Street. A parent must remain on site, and the screening lasts approximately 20 minutes. Families should contact Preschool Special Education Supervisor Melissa Uher at 740-833-1116 before attending. Delaware City Schools Whether a child enters as a peer model or receives specialized support, the program is built around the same idea: preschoolers bring different strengths to the room, and those differences can become part of how everyone learns.
