Preschool Education

Big Walnut offers an outstanding preschool program that serves children with disabilities and also provides an educational opportunity for typically developing children to serve as social and academic peer models.

The Big Walnut Preschool Peer Model Program promotes the development of communication and motor skills, independence, and a positive self-concept. All classrooms feature literacy-enriched, developmentally appropriate learning environments and align with the Early Learning Content Standards endorsed by the Ohio Department of Education & Workforce.

Classrooms have a maximum of 16 students, with a ratio of no more than 8:8 (8 students with disabilities to 8 peer models). Our integrated classrooms are staffed by one teacher and one assistant. Some classrooms are staffed with additional assistants, dependent upon the needs of the students in each of the classrooms

Each class receives support services from a team of related service specialists (occupational therapist, speech-language therapist, and physical therapist). The related services staff bring their skills and training to the classroom, benefiting both peer models and students with special needs.

Preschool Information

Hours of Operation

Morning Session - 9:00-11:30 am

Afternoon Session - 12:35-3:05 pm