Bradleyville puts focus on quality preschool services

As the Bradleyville School District works through financial challenges, one priority remains unwavering for Superintendent Dr. Kendra Stuart - ensuring every child receives the best academic opportunities.

Last summer, as preschool enrollment dipped, Dr. Stuart was faced with a difficult decision: reduce or eliminate a preschool classroom aide. But thanks to a Hope Grant from the Silver Dollar City Foundation, the district was able to keep a full-time aide in place, preserving the supportive and well-staffed environment Bradleyville’s preschool families rely on.

“Early education is imperative,” Dr. Stuart said. “Preschool prepares children for school and sets students up for a successful academic career. In our preschool classroom, we have children who have been worked with regularly and we have kids who may not have had that opportunity. When we have not just a teacher but a full-time aide working together with kids, we give students the time and attention they need. It levels the playing field and helps students successfully transition to kindergarten.”

Preschool Teacher Sarah Graves has seen that impact firsthand.

“Preschool lays the groundwork for everything that comes next,” Graves explained. “Students learn routines, listening skills, how to line up, letters, numbers - skills that help them walk into kindergarten ready to succeed. And when you’re working with 3- and 4‑year‑olds, having an extra set of hands in the room makes all the difference.”

Preschool Aide Taylor Cummings agrees.

“As a full‑time aide, I’m able to give one-on-one support to students who need a little extra help,” Cummings said. “We can also break into smaller groups, which is incredibly important at this age and developmental stage.”

Bradleyville’s preschool welcomes students starting at age 3. Tuition is $6 per day, or $2 a day for students who qualify for free or reduced lunch.

Families interested in learning more, or in signing up for the district’s preschool and kindergarten screenings on April 9–10, are encouraged to call 417-796-2288.

Silver Dollar City Foundation provides Hope Grants to the 14 public school districts serving Stone and Taney County children. These grants empower districts to address local needs ranging from early childhood education to literacy programs, behavioral support, social services, and student and family engagement. During the 2024–2025 school year alone, Hope Grant projects positively impacted nearly 3,000 students.