Grants provide free Pre-K programs in Branson, Reeds Spring school districts

Branson Schools awarded Missouri Quality Pre-K Grant, continuing free access for all four-year-olds

The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education has announced the recipients of the 2025-2026 Missouri Quality Pre-Kindergarten (MOQPK) Grant. The MOQPK grant is designed to provide funding for high quality preschool programs in Missouri.

The MOQPK grant will allow all four-year-olds who meet certain criteria to attend Branson Schools Pre-K free of charge during the 2025-2026 school year, regardless of the family’s income status.

“We are honored to receive the MOQPK grant again,” said Dr. Staci Ray, Director of Early Childhood. “This continued support allows us to expand access to early childhood education to more families within our community.”

To be considered for placement, Pre-K students must meet the following requirements:

·       Reside within the boundaries of the Branson School District

·       Turn four years old on or before July 31, 2025

·       Complete a free developmental screening through the Branson Parents as Teachers program

Interested parents and guardians should complete the 2025-2026 Preschool Interest Form by visiting our district website at www.branson.k12.mo.us. After submitting the Preschool Interest Form, families will receive an email with an invitation to schedule a screening appointment. If you are currently enrolled in Branson Pre-K, you will automatically qualify for this opportunity.

Space is limited, and students will be considered on a first come first serve basis as we receive the preschool interest form. For more information on all Branson Public Schools preschool offerings, please visit our district website or call 417-336-1887.

Grant provides free Pre-K to Reeds Spring families

Sixty children have the opportunity to attend Pre-K for free at Reeds Spring Primary School, thanks to a grant from the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).

The 2025-2026 Missouri Quality PreKindergarten (MOQPK) Grant covers tuition and meals, regardless of the family’s income.

“We are incredibly honored to have been awarded the MO-QPK grant from DESE,” said Primary School Assistant Principal Tara Connors. “This opportunity allows us to provide high-quality, tuition-free preschool for all four-year-old children in our community.”

To qualify, a child must turn four years old on or before July 31. They must live in the Reeds Spring School District and complete a free developmental screener through our Parents as Teachers program.

“Access to early childhood education lays a strong foundation for lifelong learning, and we know that when every child is given the chance to thrive from the start, the entire community benefits,” Connors said. “It’s an exciting step toward brighter futures for all.”

Call 417-272-3761 to schedule a screening. We will enroll students on a first-come, first-served basis.