Begindergarten is a full-day, play-based program designed for children who would benefit from additional support building foundational skills before entering a traditional kindergarten classroom.
Our kindergarten-readiness program focuses on building essential skills and preparing students to successfully transition to a JB kindergarten classroom or one that best fits their needs and is an excellent entry point into the Julie Billiart Schools community. Our Begindergarten class is not preschool or pre-kindergarten. It is a play-based kindergarten curriculum.
Students benefit from:
- A play-based approach to learning
- Individualized support and instruction
- Early literacy and language development
- Social-emotional skill building
- Problem-solving and critical thinking opportunities
- Fine and gross motor skill development
- Structured routines that promote independence
The classroom is staffed to provide a high level of support and attention, including:
- 4:1 student-to-staff ratio
- Early Childhood Intervention Specialist
- Two paraprofessionals
- Occupational therapist
- Speech therapist
Students must be five years old by September 30. Begindergarten is currently offered only at the JB Brecksville campus.
Begindergarten FAQ
If you do not see your question below, please call 216.716.8318 or email admissions@jbschool.org.
What is the cost of tuition for Begindergarten?
Tuition for the 2026-27 school year is $36,820. Begindergarten tuition mirrors K-8 and includes the same services and accommodations.
Does a Begindergarten student need an Individualized Education Plan (IEP)?
Every JB student has an official diagnosis that qualifies them to receive special education services. Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or Autism Education Plan (AEP), are helpful because they communicate common language, issues and needs.
However, we do not require students to have an educational or medical diagnosis – although available scholarship funding is contingent upon an IEP or AEP.
Are scholarships available to help with the cost of Begindergarten tuition?
Yes. If your child has an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or Autism Education Plan (AEP) from your home school district, he or she is qualified for either the Jon Peterson Special Needs Program or the Autism Scholarship Program offered by the state of Ohio. Visit our Scholarships page for more information
Is Begindergarten a full-day or half-day program?
Begindergarten is a full-day program, however, the first two weeks of the school year will be half-day to support the child's transition to a full-day schedule.
Is Aftercare available for Begindergarten?
Yes. Aftercare is available for all JB students. Click here to learn more about our aftercare program.