Which preschools offer the most sense of "community"?

[Anonymous]

We are relocating and our child will start preschool in DC. We have applied to a number of them, but I am also hopeful about meeting other mothers and expanding our community. So your thoughts about what preschools have more of a sense of community among the parents would be appreciated.

Thanks!

[Anonymous]

Little Folks and St. John's are both very small (40-45 kids)and try hard to foster a sense of community - all the kids know each other and there are a lot of family-inclusive events and opportunities to volunteer.

Little FOlks holds an informal parent coffee every 2 weeks at drop-off, and there's always a parent at the door during drop-off time. There are also a lot of evening functions that parents may attend if they wish. St. John's invites parents to stay for their "morning meeting" in the classroom.

[Anonymous]

OP here.

Thanks!

How about NCRC and School for Friends?

[Anonymous]

The best ones for your family are likely near your home. Where are you going to be living?

[Anonymous]

OP here -

Not sure yet - we won't be moving until early summer, so we'll be able to pick where we live based in part on convenience to school.

But we'll need to be on the Red line to have an easy commute to Dupont Circle. So we're thinking Woodley Park, Dupont Circle, Kalorama, maybe Cleveland Park, maybe Chevy Chase.

Thanks so much!

[Anonymous]

My sense is that School for Friends does this better than NCRC. The SfF community also seems more down to earth. But this is just a second-hand impression gathered from friends with children at the schools.

[Anonymous]

OP here.

Of course, we realize we'll be very fortunate if we are accepted to either...

Thanks!

[Anonymous]

School for Friends is great - they have several events over the year to get families together. It is small and the parents are great. Very low key and friendly.

[Anonymous]

Both our kids and many of our friends' kids went to School for Friends and we LOVED it. Very connected to the community. Great school, great teachers, and your kids will thrive!