The program will be completely free to enrolled families, with 100% of weekly tuition – valued at $178 per week, plus registration fees, covered through a scholarship.
Marana Unified School District announced the expansion of its scholarship-funded Kinder-Ready Pre-K program at Roadrunner Elementary, doubling the pilot program from one classroom to two and increasing enrollment from 18 to 36 four-year-olds.
The program will be completely free to enrolled families, with 100% of weekly tuition – valued at $178 per week, plus registration fees, covered through a scholarship.
District leaders launched the pilot after observing a clear pattern: kindergartners who had attended preschool consistently started the school year more prepared and confident than their peers.
“As educational leaders, we're always looking at what really moves the needle for student success at every age,” said Mr.
Josh Bayne, Executive Director of Educational Services.
“For our kindergarten students, we saw that starting school in preschool makes a real difference.” The expansion also reflects a deliberate effort by the district to increase the number of students enrolled in preschool.
“We want families of young children to know that preschool makes a world of difference for young learners,” said Mrs.
Kristina Brewer, Principal of Roadrunner Elementary.
“Roadrunner is a tight-knit community.
Young children can start practicing reading, math, and social skills with their peers in a way that pays off at every grade level.” Mr.
Bayne added that giving young students a structured, high-quality start is central to the program's goal.
“The most important thing is giving these students a chance to grow and thrive in a structured Pre-K environment, so families have an earlier, stronger start to elementary school.
Roadrunner is a great school community to begin with!” Why Pre-K Matters Research and MUSD's own experience point to the same conclusion: an earlier start in school makes a lasting difference for children.
100% of tuition covered by scholarship (a $178/week value, plus registration fees) Schedule: Monday – Friday, five days per week, following MUSD school calendar.
Eligibility: To qualify for the scholarship, the following documentation is required for every participating family: The first page of your 2025 IRS Form 1040 (used only to verify family size).
One month of current pay stubs for all working adults in the household or a current DES denial letter.
A completed No Income Form for any adult household member who is not currently employed.
The first page of your 2025 IRS Form 1040 (used only to verify family size).
Licensing & standards: Licensed by the Arizona Department of Health Services, contracted through the Arizona Department of Economic Security, aligned to Arizona Early Childhood Learning Standards, and a partner of the Quality First program.
Sign-Up to Start Registration Classrooms open soon!
Interested families should complete this brief survey, or call 520-616-4506, to sign up.
About Marana Unified School District Marana Unified School District serves approximately 13,000 students across 20 schools in Northwest Tucson, offering a full continuum of education from preschool through high school graduation.
The district's academic offerings include full-day kindergarten, gifted and special education, CSTEM programs, fine arts, and distance learning, alongside a wide range of extracurricular activities, on-site athletics, and before/after-school care.
High school students can pursue personalized pathways through Marana Vista Academy, Advanced Placement courses, dual enrollment, Career and Technical Education, and industry certifications.
Backed by nationally certified teachers, MUSD is committed to preparing every student for success in college, career, and life.
Learn more at maranausd.org.