Preschool Opening for 4 Year Old in 2009?

[Anonymous]

We have suddenly learned that we are relocating to DC for the rest of the 2009-10 school year. Our daughter is 4, and has experience with both Montessori and JCC preschools. She is on the waiting list at JCC DC. Any other suggestions? Above all, we seek a warm, nurturing environment with full-day option 5 days/week. JCC, Reggio Emilia or Montessori would be a huge plus. We are willing to live anywhere in the DC metro area, and we expect to be there by October 15. Thanks in advance for any suggestions or leads!

[Anonymous]

Appletree in Columbia Heights has openings for 4yo and they are fabulous.

[Anonymous]

For a full day program your options are a little limited.

Call Bridges Public Charter School - http://www.bridgespcs.org/

St. Albans Early Childcare Center - 202-363-7380

[Anonymous]

CommuniKids Preschool in Tenleytown may have openings. They are full-day and Spanish immersion.

[Anonymous]

Try The Langley School - their JK classes are reportedly very small this year and they always seem to be looking for girls.

[Anonymous]

Franklin Montessori in DC is always very helpful in finding space for Montessori transfer students.

[Anonymous]

i don't know if money is a concern for you, op, but some of these options are charter and therefore free, save aftercare (Bridges and AppleTree).

[Anonymous]

If you are going to be here longer than the 2009/2010 school year and you are thinking public schools for K you want to be aware of schools that are zoned for where you are moving. There are some very good elementary schools in the District, but they are not all good so it is something to be aware of. Obviously if you go with Montessori you can continue there for K. There are A LOT of montessori programs in DC and its surrounding areas.

[Anonymous]

Thanks for all the great tips! It seems there are some openings, and we've narrowed it down to Franklin Montessori and (should we get off the wait list) DC JCC.

[Anonymous]

the JCC is not that great. appletree blows the J away. the J has nicer facilities and a nice location. appletree staff, curriculum, philosophy is far superior. knowing what i know about the two, i would never choose the J over appletree.

[Anonymous]

Thanks for the tip on AppleTree v. JCC. I also searched past discussions on Franklin Montessori, and was very cheered by them. If others have thoughts based on recent experiences with FMS, AppleTree or DC JCC, I am all ears. This list-serv is a wonderful service!

[Anonymous]

Check with the JCC in Rockville. They might have a spot for a 4 year old. They do have full-day programs that run all year long. Great new director and fantastic teachers. Easy access to I-270 and Rockville Pike.