Parker School in Waimea now accepting applications for its new preschool

Parker School is now accepting applications for its new early childhood education program Parker Preschool.

The new preschool serves keiki ages 2 to 5 years old, with a target opening date in August this year.

Parker Preschool was established to extend Parker School’s educational continuum while addressing the growing need for high-quality child care for faculty, staff and families in the broader Waimea community.

The program will offer full-day, year-round hours from 7:15 a.m. to 5 p.m., designed to support working parents while providing children with a consistent, nurturing learning environment.

“This new program represents a thoughtful and values-driven response to a real community need,” said Head of Parker School Stephen Dunn in the school’s application announcement. “As we enter our school’s 50th year, we are proud to evolve alongside Waimea — offering a play-based, inquiry-driven and nature-connected learning environment for our youngest learners while supporting more families in our community.”

Parker Preschool will initially welcome 16 children into a program rooted in exploration, play and connection. It reflects Parker School’s long-standing commitment to ensuring every child is known, valued and nurtured.

“We are intentionally designing a program to honor the wonder of early childhood,” said Parker School Early Childhood Education Director Jackie Caputo in the announcement. “Through play-based and inquiry-driven learning, we are creating a space where young children feel safe and inspired to explore, imagine and grow.”

A significant benefit of Parker Preschool is its connection to Parker School’s kindergarten through high school program.

Children who attend Parker Preschool and are eligible for kindergarten will not be required to reapply for admission to Parker School, creating a supportive transition and long-term continuity for families.

Parker’s new preschool emphasizes hands-on discovery, creative expression, social-emotional development, connection with nature and early literacy and numeracy.

The program maintains a low 8:1 student-to-teacher ratio to ensure individualized attention and strong partnerships with families.

Its multi-age classroom model also allows younger children to learn alongside older peers, fostering leadership, empathy and confidence.

Located at Hale Akina, a historic residence on the Parker School campus in Waimea, the preschool is being thoughtfully reimagined into an early childhood learning environment with inviting indoor and outdoor spaces.

Deadline to apply is Feb. 27, with admission decisions communicated to families March 31.

Children must be 2 years old by Aug. 1 and not yet 5 years old by Oct. 31.

Families and community members can learn more about Parker Preschool, view full program details and apply online at the Parker School website.