GLADBROOK -- Interest is high in a proposed preschool, according to a survey of the community.

Erin Murty, representing Crayon Corner Preschool, shared results Monday during the City Council meeting.

Of 188 surveys returned, Murty said 181 favored such a program in Gladbrook and 151 supported an extended learning program.

Committee members working on the initiative received two Tama County Empowerment grants worth $2,500 and have applied for another $4,000 from the organization. The group is also seeking a $4,000 grant from Alliant Energy and a $5,000 grant from Wal-Mart and intends to apply for funds from the Gladbrook Foundation.

The money will be used to buy equipment and supplies for the extended learning program.

Murty said 15 students have registered and 11 committed to the extended learning program.

The fee for the 3-year-old preschool program will be $65 per month. The fee for the 4-year-old preschool program will be $75 per month.

Council members gave a verbal commitment of $10,000 for 2008-09 to support the program.

The Crayon Corner Preschool is working with the Gladbrook-Reinbeck School District to find a room for the extended learning program and will ask to be a part of the breakfast and lunch programs. Organizers will meet with the school board Thursday evening.

The preschool will be open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. to accommodate parents' work schedules.

Contact Marcy Knaack at

newsroom@wcfcourier.com.