Frequently Asked Questions

IS THERE AN APPLICATION FEE?

Yes, there is a non-refundable and non-transferable annual application fee. The fee is $40 for returning families and $50 for new families.

HOW OLD MUST MY CHILD BE TO ATTEND?

Children must be either 3 or 4 years old by December 31st of the year you are enrolling for.  For the 2026-2027 school year, students must turn 3 years old on or before December 31, 2026. 

DO THE CHILDREN NEED TO BE POTTY TRAINED?

Yes, all children are expected to be potty trained and to use the restroom with minimal assistance. A child is considered fully potty trained when they can use the toilet independently and without consistent accidents. This means that the child is wearing and staying dry in underwear, can communicate when they need to use the bathroom, can walk to the toilet, pull their clothes up and down and use the toilet with minimal assistance. 

HOW MUCH IS TUITION?

Tuition depends on the schedule you choose. Two installments are due at the August parent meeting. The remaining balance can be paid in monthly installments, October - April. You may also choose to pay tuition in full.

5 Days: Monday - Friday  $3,420/year ($380/month)

4 Days: Mon, Wed, Fri & Choice of Tues or Thurs  $2,790/year ($310/month)

3 Days: Mon, Wed, Frid  $2,160/year ($240/month)

WHEN IS SCHOOL IN SESSION?

Jack and Jill Community Preschool is in session from September to May. All Grand Island School District holidays and breaks are observed. 

WHAT ARE THE PARENT RESPONSIBILITIES?

Parents will select 1-2 working days each month where you assist in the classroom for the day. The amount of days you work in the classroom depends on the class size, needs of class, days in the month, and special activities. Parents are also responsible for 1 toy cleaning each year, attending 3 mandatory parent meetings, and participating in 1 in-person fundraising event.  There is a $50 fee for any missed working days, toy cleanings, or meetings.

WHAT DO THE PARENTS DO IN THE CLASSROOM ON THEIR WORKING DAYS?

On your scheduled working days, parents are an extra set of hands in the classroom. You’ll help with simple tasks like setting up activities, assisting children during play and centers, help open snacks, and tidying up at the end of the day. You’re there to support the teachers and students, not to lead lessons, and we’ll always guide you on what needs to be done. It’s a great way to be part of your child’s classroom experience and see their learning in action!

WHO CAN WORK THE PARENT WORKING DAYS?

Parents, grandparents, extended family members, or even close family friends may cover your working days. We require all classroom teachers and volunteers to complete a background check. 

DO FAMILIES NEED TO FUNDRAISE?

There is a mandatory fundraising fee of $250 per child. We organize fundraisers throughout the school year to help pay down that fee. Most families pay off the fee by participating in fundraisers. In addition, each family is responsible for participating in one in-person fundraising event. 

DO PARENTS NEED TO BE ON A SCHOOL COMMITTEE?

No, parents are not required to be on a committee. If interested in taking on a larger role at Jack and Jill, you can join the Board of Directors. 

DO THE STUDENTS EAT LUNCH AT SCHOOL?

No, students do not each lunch at school but we do give time to enjoy a small snack. Parents must send in a small snack and water bottle for their own child each school day. 

HOW ARE ALLERGIES HANDLED AT SCHOOL?

We prioritize student safety through awareness, planning, and proactive management of allergens. Students bring their own daily snacks and any shared party foods are from an approved allergy safe snack list that is provided to all families at the beginning of the school year. We encourage families to communicate any allergies with our teachers prior to the start of school so we can work together on a plan to keep your child safe at school. 

DOES THE CLASS GO OUTSIDE?

Yes! We love to take the learning outside. As long as the weather is on our side, we head out for group activities, explore the trails behind the school, play in the pavilion, or bring out toys for outdoor gross motor play. 

IS THERE A GRAND ISLAND RESIDENCY REQUIREMENT?

No, Jack and Jill does not require families to reside in Grand Island. We welcome children from all across Western New York!