01/24/2026
🐼 To all my past, present, and future panda cubs:
It is 2026 and most people are starting to think about preschool registration for the 26-27 school year.
In the past, I have opened registration in January in order to secure placement and give parents plenty of time to plan schedules and prepare their kiddo.
This year will be quite different. My husband has applied for a new job which would require us to move to Jefferson County. This is a little out of the blue and a very difficult decision for him, but we think it is best. Due to the specifics of the hiring process and certain procedures that need to be followed, we won’t have any additional information until March 20th.
Because of this, I cannot give a firm answer on preschool placement for 26-27. However, I am starting a wait list for kiddos interested in attending a class next school year but I will not be accepting registration forms or deposit fees until March 20th.
On March 20th I will let everyone know my plans for the upcoming year. I will either continue teaching in Idaho Falls as usual, or be moving to a new house in Jefferson County. The actual location is up in the air until we purchase a home this summer. If we end up moving, the plan is to continue teaching in my new home. 🤞🏻
I know this may complicate planning and logistics for some families. Having a preschool in my home has been my dream for many years. The last 5 years I’ve been able to live that dream! I have no idea what the future holds, but I know it will all work out in the end.
What’s next?
-If you want to keep Happy Panda Preschool as an option for 26-27, please message me ASAP and I will add your name to my list.
-Consider attending the Preschool Fair hosted by It Takes a Village in Idaho Falls. I attended this event in Feb of 2023 and it was very helpful for me to gain students and also for parents to research many options at one place.
-Do not put all your eggs in one basket but also don’t go broke putting down several deposits at multiple schools. (This will be the trickiest decision.)
-On March 20 you could continue forward with HPP or remove your name from the list and look for other options.
I believe this plan will be the best play for the cards that have been dealt. I appreciate your flexibility as I try and stand on 2 feet for a minute and just wait.
I want to thank you all for being in my life one way or another. If I have taught your kiddos before, thank you for letting me spend hours and hours playing with them. They have each made an impact on me and I am grateful I was able to be their teacher. If you are new here and interested in joining me, welcome! This is not typical and I hope you will all be patient as we hang in limbo for 2 months.
If you would like further information about Happy Panda Preschool, please send me your email address and we can discuss any questions you may have.
Thank you,
Miss Madi
