WHO WE ARE

At Circle of Friends, we believe that learning truly begins here — in relationships, play and joyful discovery. Starting preschool is an exciting milestone, and our caring, licensed teachers create welcoming classrooms where children feel safe, valued and excited to learn. Through play, connection and intentional teaching, we support children's social emotional and academic development — building a strong foundation for success in school and in life.

Our Preschool and PreKindergarten programs serve children who turn three or four years old on or before September 1st.

Our Step Into Preschool program is designed for children who turn three between September 2nd and December 31st and incorporates intentional parent education. Rooted in our belief that learning begins here, this model supports children as they practice independence and gentle separation, while also equipping caregivers with strategies to support social-emotional development, routines and learning at home.

We use a whole child, play based approach that honors each child's unique strengths, interests and developmental needs. Our programming is aligned to the Minnesota Early Childhood Indicators of Progress (ECIPs) and guided by a district approved curriculum. Classrooms incorporate our district's E-STEM philosophy, encouraging curiosity, creativity and problem solving through hands-on learning.

Our program is proud to hold a 4-start Parent Aware rating which reflects our commitment to high quality, developmentally appropriate early learning experiences.

PARTNERS IN EDUCATION AND DEVELOPEMENT

Circle of Friends Preschool and PreKindergarten partners with Lakers Preschool Child Care to align and compliment curriculum efforts and focuses.

Learn more about Lakers Preschool Child Care

HOW TO REGISTER

Registration for the 26/27 school year opens February 17th!

1. Create an account and select which class you would like your child to attend.

25/26 Registration 26/27 Registration Link Coming Soon!

2. Complete the online enrollment with Prior Lake-Savage area schools.

Online enrollment with PLSAS

3. Schedule an early childhood screening for your child. If your child was screened by another district, please provide a copy to our office.

Early Childhood Screening Online Scheduler

After submitting your contract request, you will receive a confirmation email that your registration has been received.
After all three of the above steps have been completed, you will receive a second confirmation email when your contract is accepted.
If Circle of Friends sections fill, pending registrations will be moved to a waitlist and families will be notified. Families will be contacted if/when a spot opens.

SCHOLARSHIPS AND SLIDING FEE SCALE

There are limited scholarships available for our preschool and preKindergarten programs on a first come, first served basis. A sliding fee scale is available for all classes. Proof of income is required.

To learn more about our scholarship process and use of the sliding fee scale, please see the link below for more information.

Circle of Friends Scholarship Information

JOIN US FOR A PRESCHOOL AND PREKINDERGARTEN OPEN HOUSE!

Circle of Friends Open House

Tuesday, February 3, 2026 5:00-6:30 p.m.

Edgewood School, 5304 Westwood Drive, Prior Lake (Door 6W)

Join us to learn more about our preschool and preKindergarten offerings and programming for 2026-2027 school year!

Nature PreKindergarten Open House

Tuesday, February 10, 2026 4:30-6:30 p.m.

Jeffers Pond Elementary, 14800 Jeffers Pass NW, Prior Lake (Room 132)

Join us to meet the teachers, see Jeffers Pond and ask questions!

For more information contact: