School History

Isaac Preschool has been at its current location since 1989. At that time Isaac Preschool consisted of 4 preschool classrooms with adult education for the parents (Title 1/Even Start) and 1 special education preschool classroom. It was the first Title 1/Even Start program in southwestern United States. It is accredited by the National Academy of Early Childhood Programs (NAEYC) and is licensed by the AZ Department of Health Services. In November 2001, Isaac Preschool was renamed, Bret Tarver Education Complex, in memory of a district firefighter (Bret Tarver/Engine 14) who lost his life fighting the first alarm fire at the Southwest Supermarket on 35 th Avenue and McDowell Rd.

Currently, there are 2 kindergarten and 9 preschool classrooms with a total enrollment of approximately 250 students. In addition there are approximately 40 adult (parents) students and 20 infant/toddler children. The adult education program offers ELAA (English Language Acquisition for Adults), ABE (Adult Basic Education), computer, and GED preparation courses.

B.T.E.C. implements an inclusive classroom model providing integrated therapy and services to preschool and kindergarten children with various disabilities.

The preschool is supported through a blending of federal, state, district, and private funding. The grants have specific requirements for eligibility. By law, we must assure that students are eligible for enrollment, and that parents are prepared to commit to an active partnership with the school. The screening process (application and parent interview) provides us with the information needed to determine eligibility for the programs available. It is not based upon a “first come first serve” procedure. Children who are not accepted are placed on a waiting list in a priority order based on “most in need.” You may view the grant information by visiting the early childhood education link at the Arizona Department of Education (ADE) website.