Orchard Downs Preschool

Body

Welcome!

Set in Orchard Downs with its unique blending of social and cultural backgrounds, the school provides a stimulating and diverse environment for the individual growth of each child. The preschool accepts children ages three to five years old who are toilet trained.

The preschool welcomes residents of University Housing and Urbana-Champaign community members. Classes operate during the academic year while the university is in session, following the University of Illinois Academic calendar. 

Learning Experience

We plan thoughtful activities for children to develop social, emotional and physical skills, gain independence, practice critical thinking and improve listening. We focus on building self-esteem, confidence and a love of learning in everything we do.

Our curriculum is built around a weekly theme and includes self-paced experiences in art, music, literature, math and science. We fully prepare children to ease into their next level of education in U.S. or global schools.

The foundation of our programming is based on the diverse blend of social and cultural backgrounds that make up our apartment communities. We use culturally-based resources and curriculum to help educate and bridge differences. Reading and language centers have a special focus on English as a Second Language skills.

We are a small school which enables us to be both teacher and child directed. Teachers and staff deliver personalized instruction to your child to meet their individual needs. We also have student workers and volunteers in our classrooms throughout the year.

Registration

To register your child, please complete the application form. All registration and health forms must be completed before children may attend. 

The University of Illinois prohibits sex discrimination, sexual harassment or other sexual misconduct of or by students employees or visitors. View the University of Illinois' statement on  sex discrimination, sexual harassment, of other sexual misconduct. For more information please visit At Illinois We Care.

Tours and Contact

If you are interested in a tour, have questions or would like to meet our teachers, please contact Family & Graduate Housing at 217-333-5656 or at apartments@illinois.edu.

Forms and Resources

Orchard Downs Preschool Application
Child Health Examination Form (pdf)
Orchard Downs Preschool Manual 2023-2024 (pdf)
Rates (pdf)
Permission to Administer Medication (pdf)