SACO — School department officials in Saco are developing a future public preschool program.

Saco Superintendent of Schools Dominic DePatsy announced Friday in his weekly memo that the School Department was in the process of creating and budgeting for a preschool program that would serve 32 students in two full day classrooms at a possible off-site location.

“We are in the beginning stages of developing this preschool program and ultimately will need approval from the School Board and City Council,” said DePatsy. “The goal is to expand the program to provide universal preschool for all Saco residents in the years to come.”

DePatsy invited Saco parents who are interested in enrolling their child in preschool to fill out an online survey. 

DePatsy said in his memo to parents that more information regarding the proposed preschool program will be available as the School Board goes through the budget and approval process.

Other communities, including nearby Biddeford and Old Orchard Beach, have pre-Kindergarten classes. 

Research has shown that high quality, early education programs have positive long-term impacts on children, according to the National Education Association. 

One study found that students who attended preschool programs were more likely to graduate high school, according to the association 

Another study found that children who attended quality preschool programs were less likely to repeat grades, need special education or get into future trouble with the law, according to the association. 

— Staff Writer Liz Gotthelf can be contacted at 282-1535, ext. 325 or egotthelf@journaltribune.com.