Essential Eligibility Criteria

• As an outdoor school, we operate our programming in unfenced environments, including (but not limited to) woods, waterways, and a farm with animals. To ensure the safety and success of all students, we have some Essential Eligibility Criteria that children must meet to participate in our programming. Please review the complete “Essential Eligibility Criteria” document before applying. Should you enroll, you will sign this document to indicate you have read and understand the Eligibility Criteria and that your child meets the eligibility requirements.   
• We can accommodate children who need 1:1 support if their support professional is provided by the family or through another service (such as CDS). If your child requires additional support, please contact Preschool Director kmills@ketchaoutdoors.org to discuss whether this program will be a good fit for your child.   

“Our child has absolutely thrived at Ketcha Farm and Forest Preschool. Every day, they come home excited to share what they’ve discovered in nature, and we see how much they’ve grown in confidence and curiosity. It’s a magical place that lets them be kids while learning so much about the world around them.”

Admissions Process

• All families must tour the campus with the Farm & Forest School Director and their child before enrolling.  

• • Note: A prospective family open house counts as your child’s visit to campus (if it’s done within the school year before their enrollment).  

• Families submit a completed registration form to the Farm & Forest School Director.  

• • Note: Prospective families that pre-register before January are prioritized in the admissions process. 

• Families are notified of their admissions status.  

Admissions Timeline

Early Applicants:  

• • October-December: Child Visits & Family Tours 

• • November: Prospective Family Open House (optional)

• December:

  • Early registration applications open 

• • Current family re-commitment period opens 

• • Prospective Family Open House (optional)

• January:  

  • Early registration applications and current family recommitments are due by mid-January. Exact timing will be communicated to prospective families in the Fall

• • Early applicants are notified of their admissions status by late January/early February

• • Early applicant deposits to hold their spot in the program are due by late January/early February. These deposits are nonrefundable

Rolling Applicants:  

• Registration opens to the public in early-to-mid February

February-July:  

• • Child Visits & Family Tours 

• • Admissions notifications are given on a rolling basis, depending on availability.