The Best Preschools in New Concord, KY
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in New Concord. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
The Goddard School of Murray
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Murray is a highly-rated early childhood education center located approximately 15 miles from New Concord. This facility operates under the nationally recognized Goddard System with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with play-based development. They feature state-licensed teachers with degrees in early childhood education, secure entry systems, and comprehensive safety protocols. The curriculum focuses on literacy, mathematics, science, social studies, and character development in purpose-built classrooms designed for different age groups.
Programs Offered:
Murray State University Child Care Center
Murray State University
The Murray State University Child Care Center serves both university affiliates and community members, located about 12 miles from New Concord. This NAEYC-accredited facility employs early childhood professionals with bachelor's and master's degrees in education. The center follows a research-based curriculum emphasizing cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development through hands-on learning experiences. They maintain low student-teacher ratios and implement rigorous health and safety standards, including comprehensive background checks and ongoing staff training.
Programs Offered:
Mayfield-Graves County Head Start
Community Action Paducah
Mayfield-Graves County Head Start provides comprehensive early childhood education services to families throughout the region, including New Concord area residents. This federally-funded program serves children from low-income families with a holistic approach that includes education, health, nutrition, and family support services. The facility features degreed teachers implementing evidence-based curricula focused on school readiness, with particular emphasis on literacy, numeracy, and social skills development. All staff undergo extensive background checks and receive ongoing professional development in early childhood best practices.
Programs Offered:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in New Concord, KY:
What are the typical costs for preschool programs in New Concord, KY, and are there any financial assistance options?
In New Concord and the surrounding Calloway County area, preschool costs can vary widely, typically ranging from $100 to $250 per week depending on the program's schedule and philosophy. For state-funded programs, Kentucky's Preschool Program provides free services for eligible 3- and 4-year-olds based on family income or specific developmental needs. It's recommended to contact the Calloway County Preschool directly or inquire with private centers about potential sliding scale fees or scholarships.
How do I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in New Concord?
All licensed preschools in Kentucky, including those in New Concord, are regulated by the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services. You can verify a center's license status and review any past violations through the state's online Child Care Provider Search. Additionally, asking if the program is accredited by a national organization like NAEYC or participates in Kentucky's STARS for KIDS NOW quality rating system is a key indicator of a commitment to higher standards.
What types of preschool programs are available in New Concord, given its rural setting?
Options in New Concord itself may include home-based family child care programs, faith-based preschools often affiliated with local churches, and the state-funded Calloway County Preschool program, which may provide services at a central location. Many families in the area also consider programs in nearby Murray, which offer more variety, including Montessori and university-affiliated lab schools at Murray State University, requiring a short commute.
When should I apply for preschool in New Concord, and what is the enrollment process?
For the state-funded Kentucky Preschool Program, application timelines are critical, often beginning in the spring for the following fall. Private and faith-based programs may have rolling enrollment but fill quickly. The first step is to contact the Calloway County Board of Education for public preschool eligibility screening or directly call individual centers to request an application, schedule a tour, and inquire about waitlists.
What should I look for regarding safety and daily routines during a preschool tour in this area?
During a tour, ask about staff-to-child ratios, staff background checks, and emergency procedures for severe weather common in Western Kentucky. Observe if the environment is clean and secure, with clear sightlines for supervision. A quality program will have a structured yet flexible daily schedule that balances active play, rest, and age-appropriate learning activities, and they should readily provide you with a sample daily routine.
Nearby Cities
Explore preschools in cities near New Concord:
Looking for More Options?
Explore preschools in other cities across Kentucky or search our full directory of early learning centers nationwide.