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Enrollment & Screening

Huntley 158's Early Childhood Center (ECC) is a program funded by the district and supported by the State of Illinois through the Preschool for All (PFA) Grant. As such, we do not offer tuition-based or open enrollment options. All students must qualify for the program through a formal screening or evaluation process.

Screenings occur in July, August, September, October, December, February and April. There are a specific number of spots available per screening. Once slots are filled, prospective children will be added to the next screening month. Appointments are filled in the order of completed packets received. Once our classrooms are filled through this process, we maintain a waiting list. If/when openings occur, families on the waiting list are contacted based on the eligibility points determined during their child’s screening. If a spot does not become available for the 2025-2026 school year, your child will remain on the waiting list to begin in the 2026-2027 school year, provided they are age-eligible.

Screening Process

ECC conducts developmental screenings for children ages 3-5 years old, but does NOT conduct kindergarten screenings. 

The purpose of the screening process is to:

  • Identify at-risk students who would benefit from attending the program
  • Identify students who may need an evaluation for special education services

See the steps below if you are interested in a screening for your child:

Step 1: Complete the online screening survey. If you are unable to complete the online survey you can contact the screening hotline at (847) 659-6156 and leave your information. It is preferred that families complete the online survey if possible. Within two weeks you will receive a packet of information to be completed and returned. At times, due to the high volume of screening requests, it can take up to four weeks to receive the packet of information. 

Step 2: Upon receipt of your completed packet, we will review the information and you will be notified within two weeks either in writing or by a member of our staff to let you know our findings and/or the next step in the process. Note: During the summer (June, July, and August), ECC staff work limited days so it may take up to four weeks.

Qualifying students may start school pending the registration process. Not all ECC students will begin the first day of school in August. We enroll students all throughout the school year. Students do not have to be potty trained to attend.

For concerns regarding children under 34 months of age, please contact Child & Family Connections for a developmental screening/assessment at (815) 477-4720.

Contact Us

Screening Hotline: (847) 659-6156
Main Office: (847) 659-5400