Ark Valley Preschool

Directions Website Contact the school

Ark Valley Preschool Honoring curiosity, connection, and community every day. At Ark Valley Preschool, we believe every child arrives full of potential, curiosity, and joy.

A Reggio-inspired preschool in Chaffee County, Colorado, for ages 18 months–5 years—where children lead, the environment speaks, and our work is to listen with joy, purpose, and heart. Our role as educators is to listen deeply—to the children, the families, and the environment around us. Inspired by the Reggio Emilia philosophy, our classrooms are designed as living, breathing spaces where learning grows through play, wonder, and connection. We serve children ages 18 months through 5 years in the heart of Chaffee County, Colorado, creating an early learning experience that honors the whole child. Each day invites exploration through art, movement, music, storytelling, mindfulness, and time in nature. Our teachers act as guides and co-learners, nurturing confidence, empathy, and creativity as children make sense of their world. At Ark Valley, we see families as partners and the community as an extension of the classroom. We strive to make high-quality early education accessible, inclusive, and grounded in relationships. Our HEART values shape everything we do:
H – Holistic Development
E – Empathy & Mindfulness
A – Accessibility & Family Partnership
R – Respect for Nature & Community
T – Togetherness & Inclusion

We are proud to be a non-profit, community-based preschool that celebrates diversity and belonging. From daily mindfulness and loose-parts exploration to outdoor learning and local partnerships, each moment is guided by our mission to teach and lead—with joy, purpose, and heart.

We truly do have the best team of educators. ✨
10/14/2026

We truly do have the best team of educators. ✨

Do you know who these people are? Looking for stories of those who came before us!Completed in 1883, our historic school...
10/13/2026

Do you know who these people are?

Looking for stories of those who came before us!

Completed in 1883, our historic schoolhouse is now home to Ark Valley Preschool, and we’re planning a historical fundraising event to celebrate its past while supporting its future.

We’re looking for former students and teachers from the 1950's or earlier who would be willing to share their stories. Classroom traditions, favorite teachers, friendships, mischief, and everyday moments—we’d love to hear what you remember!

If this sounds like you, or a parent, grandparent, neighbor, or friend, please send us a message. We also welcome old photographs and school memorabilia that could help bring these stories to life.

Please share this post to help us find the people who are part of our schoolhouse’s history. Your memories can help support the next generation of children learning within these same walls.

Today, on Indigenous Peoples’ Day, we honor Indigenous histories, cultures, and living communities—including the Ute peo...
10/12/2026

Today, on Indigenous Peoples’ Day, we honor Indigenous histories, cultures, and living communities—including the Ute people, whose ancestral homeland includes the place we now call Poncha Springs.

The Southern Ute Indian Tribe’s history shares that Ute people have lived in this region since the beginning of time, according to their oral traditions. Generations developed extensive knowledge of the mountains, plants, animals, and seasons, traveling familiar trails and gathering food in ways that allowed the land to replenish.

Ute history also includes forced displacement and the loss of ancestral lands through colonization and government policies. Recognizing that history matters, alongside celebrating the Ute communities who continue to preserve their languages, traditions, and connections to the land today.

At Ark Valley Preschool, nurturing curiosity also means encouraging respect for the people and histories of the places we call home. Today, we invite our families to learn alongside us through the Southern Ute Indian Tribe’s own telling of their history:

Welcome to the Southern Ute Indian Tribe's official website—your gateway to tribal government, cultural heritage, community services, and business resources in Southwest Colorado.

Room to grow, create, and discover! Ark Valley Preschool has openings for children ages 18 months–5 years.Located in the...
10/11/2026

Room to grow, create, and discover! Ark Valley Preschool has openings for children ages 18 months–5 years.

Located in the historic Poncha Springs schoolhouse in Poncha Springs, Colorado, our Reggio-inspired preschool is a special place for big imaginations and little learners.

Our approach starts with children’s natural curiosity. Through play, art, exploration, and meaningful relationships, our amazing teachers build learning experiences around children’s interests, meeting each child where they are and supporting their individual growth. We’re always making art, asking questions, and stretching our imaginations! ✨

Class hours: 8:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
Optional morning care: 8:00–8:30 a.m.
Optional aftercare: 4:00–5:30 p.m.
Two snacks provided daily
Screen-free learning
CCAP and UPK participation
We follow the Salida School District calendar

Come be part of our curious, creative community! Contact Ark Valley Preschool at [email protected] to learn more about available spots and enrollment. 💛

A little fall air, a little mess, and a whole lot of discovery! Our preschoolers have been busy creating, exploring, an...
10/07/2026

A little fall air, a little mess, and a whole lot of discovery! Our preschoolers have been busy creating, exploring, and following their curiosity outdoors. Sometimes the best learning comes with messy hands and big imaginations. 🧡

Tykes on Bikes was a great success! Because of our sweet community, we were able to raise $831! Thank you to all who don...
09/23/2026

Tykes on Bikes was a great success! Because of our sweet community, we were able to raise $831! Thank you to all who donated, and supported our little racers. See you next year!

A sweet little introduction to our new director! Thanks, The Mountain Mail!
09/22/2026

A sweet little introduction to our new director! Thanks, The Mountain Mail!

A new director has started at Ark Valley Preschool, bringing a vision of stability and thoughtful growth and a decade of mountain-community education experience.

We have a few slots in both our Bear Buddies (18 month-2.5) and our Moose Crew (3-5) classrooms! Email director@arkvalle...
09/09/2026

We have a few slots in both our Bear Buddies (18 month-2.5) and our Moose Crew (3-5) classrooms!
Email director@arkvalleypreschool or visit our website to join our waitlist!

Our annual Tykes on Bikes fundraiser event is happening September 19th during the Salida 76 event! Register your lil rac...
09/08/2026

Our annual Tykes on Bikes fundraiser event is happening September 19th during the Salida 76 event! Register your lil racer and join us for the fun!

We still have a few spots open! Schedule your tour today by emailing director@arkvalleypreschool.org. We hope you'll joi...
08/26/2026

We still have a few spots open! Schedule your tour today by emailing [email protected]. We hope you'll join us!

Address

330 Burnett Avenue
Poncha Springs, CO
81242

Opening Hours

Monday 8:30am - 4pm
Tuesday 8:30am - 4pm
Wednesday 8:30am - 4pm
Thursday 8:30am - 4pm

Website

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Ark Valley Preschool posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The School

Send a message to Ark Valley Preschool:

Shortcuts

Share

Category