Cheyenne Mountain Zoo announces new outdoor-focused preschool program

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) -- The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is launching a new preschool program focused on outdoor, nature-based learning.

The zoo says the Little Paws Preschool is accredited by the Colorado Department of Early Childhood and will follow the same calendar as the Cheyenne Mountain School District 12. Officials say all teachers are qualified through state licensure regulations.

Class sizes will be around 15 students, ranging from three to five. Classes for three-year-olds are available on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Four and five-year-olds can attend Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, according to the zoo.

The zoo says mornings will be spent in trails and outdoor play settings in and around the zoo. Curriculum will focus on critical thinking, collaboration, emotional intelligence, creativity and more.

The first day of school will be Aug. 24. More information on classes and how to enroll is available on the zoo's website.

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