TCS vs. TPCDC vs. TMS

[Anonymous]

I am looking to learn more about preschool programs in Takoma Park. We've heard good things about Takoma Children School (TCS), Takoma Park Child Development Center (TPCDC), and Takoma Montessori School (TMS)? How do each of these programs compare to one another in terms quality of education/experience, cost, diversity, etc.? And are there other options that I should consider?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I am looking to learn more about preschool programs in Takoma Park. We've heard good things about Takoma Children School (TCS), Takoma Park Child Development Center (TPCDC), and Takoma Montessori School (TMS)? How do each of these programs compare to one another in terms quality of education/experience, cost, diversity, etc.? And are there other options that I should consider?

Bump

[Anonymous]

Have you asked to speak to alumni families? They will generally give you the most clear-eyed view of each choice. What qualifications do teachers have, do they provide ongoing professional development, and what does teacher turnover look like? Also, do the hours and tuition of each school work for you? Do you like the Montessori approach?

[Anonymous]

I mean, all three are great options.

TCS is smaller and has a RE-based curriculum. Because it is right on the DC/MD line, the families are a mix of DC and MD families.

TPCDC is the school of choice for a lot of TkPk families because it is walkable to the historic district. I'd choose this option if your child is going to attend either TPES or ESS because they will know a handful of kids entering kindergarten.

TMS is newish, but the person who started it has a ton of Montessori experience. I'm not sure how they feel about pulling kids out at Kindergarten (before the end of the 'Montessori Cycle') so you might want to feel that out.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I mean, all three are great options.

TCS is smaller and has a RE-based curriculum. Because it is right on the DC/MD line, the families are a mix of DC and MD families.

TPCDC is the school of choice for a lot of TkPk families because it is walkable to the historic district. I'd choose this option if your child is going to attend either TPES or ESS because they will know a handful of kids entering kindergarten.

TMS is newish, but the person who started it has a ton of Montessori experience. I'm not sure how they feel about pulling kids out at Kindergarten (before the end of the 'Montessori Cycle') so you might want to feel that out.

Thank you!!

[Anonymous]

Most children at TCS live in Takoma Park, MD. There are a handful from DC, but not many. The school follows MoCo public schools so older siblings and their younger TCS children are off the same time for spring and winter breaks.

[Anonymous]

For TPCDC you need to get on the waiting list when you yourself are in kindergarten, approximately 30 years before having a baby of your own. I kid, I kid. Seriously it’s a long waiting list though. TCS and TMS have waiting lists too but anecdotally they don’t seem quite as long and they have more random openings once in a while.