Dear Parents and Guardians,
Hastings Public Schools is excited to offer high-quality preschool programs for the
2026–2027 school year! Our preschool is free for children who live within the Hastings
Public School district boundaries. If your child will be 3 or 4 years old by July 31, 2026,
they may be eligible for this wonderful educational opportunity. To be considered for a
spot in our nurturing learning environment, you will need to apply.
Enrollment & Eligibility
Priority for enrollment is based on the following indicators (in order of
importance):
- Children living within District boundaries.
- Age eligibility (3 or 4 by the July 31 cutoff).
- Students with disabilities.
- Students with developmental concerns.
- English Language Learners.
- Date of completion of the preschool application.
Note: If a child turns 5 on or before July 31, 2026, they are eligible for Kindergarten and
may not attend HPS preschool.
How/When to Apply
- Application Window: Applications may be completed and turned in at any time
between February 1 and April 1, 2026. - In person opportunity: Join us February 10, 2026, anytime 4:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
at the Morton Early Learning Center. Staff will be available to help you fill out the
application and answer any questions. - Notification: Not all students who apply will be enrolled in preschool. You will be
notified by mail regarding the decision of your child's participation in the HPS
preschool program by the end of May. Children who do not receive a spot in a
classroom will be placed on a waiting list, and parents will be notified if a spot
becomes available.
Program Schedule & Meals
- Days: Monday through Thursday, following the typical school year calendar.
Sessions: Students attend either a morning (AM) or afternoon (PM) session. - Meals: AM students receive breakfast, and PM students receive lunch as part of
their instructional day. Free/Reduced lunch forms are available at any HPS
school office. - Transportation: Please note that busing to and from preschool is provided only
for students who qualify for special education services; transportation for all
other students is the responsibility of parents/guardians.
We understand that choosing a preschool is an important milestone for your family. If
you have any questions about the application process or our programs, please do not
hesitate to reach out to the Morton Early Learning Center. We look forward to
partnering with you and welcoming your child to Hastings Public Schools!
Please return completed applications by April 1, 2026. Applications can be returned
by mail or in person during regular school hours to the Morton Early Learning Center
(731 N Baltimore, Hastings, NE 68901), any Hastings Public Schools office, or the HPS
Administration Building. Please include a copy of your child’s birth certificate and
current immunization records, which are due prior to the start of preschool in the fall.
Sincerely,
Sara Horstmann
Morton Early Learning Center Administrator
731 N Baltimore Ave
Hastings NE 68901
(402) 461-7545
