Please help a newcomer figure out preschools in Bethesda

[Anonymous]

We're going to be moving to the DC area this spring. I like Bethesda and think we'll be focusing our search for a rental house there.

My question is: Will it be easier to get our kids into a preschool in Bethesda than it would be if we were moving to a neighborhood in NW DC? I'm sure we've missed every deadline for preschool. Are there impossibly long waitlists in Bethesda? Or is it easier than I thought.

Any info/tips/suggestions appreciated.

tia

[Anonymous]

I'd get in touch with schools and see if you can get on their wait lists now. Our school wait list definitely had movement over the summer.

[Anonymous]

Depends on the school. Maybe folks on this board could offer some suggestions for schools that may take late entries. Some fully enrolled schools will also consider spots for a relocating family.

[Anonymous]

Depends on the age of the kids as well. 2 year old programs fill faster than 3's and some places often still have spots for 4's since many families leave after 3's for private schools.

[Anonymous]

I live in Bethesda and did a last minute scramble to find a spot for my 3 year-old for next fall. There are a lot of schools in the greater Bethesda area, most of these are not the highly competitive private school feeders and admit on a first come basis - i.e. no competitive application process. So, most of the spots are already filled. But, if you are willing to consider an afternoon program at one of the schools you will have a lot more options. Also, many of the schools are coops so you may have to go that route.