The Best Preschools in Gilbert, LA
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Gilbert. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
KinderCare Learning Center
KinderCare Education LLC
KinderCare Learning Center in Monroe is a nationally accredited early childhood education provider serving the Gilbert area with a research-based curriculum focused on whole child development. The center offers age-appropriate programs from infants to pre-K, emphasizing literacy, math, science, and social skills through play-based learning. With highly qualified teachers, low student-teacher ratios, and a strong safety record including secure facilities and health protocols, it has consistently high parent satisfaction. The center provides nutritious meals and extended hours to accommodate working families, making it a reliable choice for comprehensive early education in the region.
Programs Offered:
The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Monroe is a highly regarded early learning center known for its F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience), which integrates play-based activities with STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) education. Serving families in the Gilbert area, it features state-licensed teachers with early childhood credentials, safe and nurturing environments, and a focus on social-emotional development. The school maintains excellent parent communication through daily updates and an open-door policy, contributing to its strong safety record and high ratings for educational quality and satisfaction.
Programs Offered:
Winnsboro Head Start Center
Franklin Parish School Board
Winnsboro Head Start Center, operated by the Franklin Parish School Board, provides high-quality early childhood education and comprehensive services to children and families in the Gilbert area. The program follows a evidence-based curriculum that promotes school readiness in literacy, math, and social skills, with a focus on low-income families. It features certified teachers, small class sizes, and robust safety protocols, including health screenings and nutritious meals. Parent involvement is encouraged through workshops and volunteering, leading to strong community ties and positive outcomes for children's development.
Programs Offered:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Gilbert, LA:
What is the typical cost of preschool in Gilbert, LA, and are there any local assistance programs?
In Gilbert and the surrounding rural parishes, preschool costs can vary widely, but many in-home or church-based programs may range from $100 to $250 per week. For state-funded assistance, Louisiana's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) is available for eligible families, and it's advisable to contact the local resource and referral agency, the Northeast Delta Human Services Authority, for guidance on applying and finding participating providers in the area.
How can I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Gilbert, given its small size?
All licensed childcare centers in Louisiana, including those in Gilbert, are regulated by the Louisiana Department of Education. You can search for a provider's licensing status, inspection reports, and any compliance history through the Louisiana Child Care Search portal online. For smaller, registered family childcare homes, which are common in rural areas, verifying their current registration with the state is an essential first step for safety and quality assurance.
What are the common preschool program options available in or near Gilbert, LA?
Given Gilbert's rural setting, options often include local church-affiliated preschool programs, licensed family daycare homes, and potentially LA 4 or Title I pre-K programs through the Franklin Parish School Board for eligible 4-year-olds. For more structured center-based options, parents may need to look at programs in nearby towns like Winnsboro, which may offer Montessori or traditional play-based curricula.
When should I apply for preschool in Gilbert, and what is the typical enrollment process?
Due to limited slots, especially for sought-after programs, it's recommended to begin inquiries and applications in the early spring (January-March) for a fall start. The process typically involves touring the facility (if available), submitting an application with a fee, and providing up-to-date immunization records as required by Louisiana state law. For public school-based pre-K, contact the Franklin Parish School Board directly for their specific enrollment timeline and eligibility requirements.
Are there any unique considerations for preschools in a rural community like Gilbert regarding safety and transportation?
Yes, safety considerations often include understanding the provider's emergency plan for severe weather common to the region and their protocol for communicable illnesses. Transportation is frequently the responsibility of the parent or guardian, as most small, local preschools do not offer bus services. It's important to ask about the facility's outdoor play area security and staff-to-child ratios to ensure adequate supervision in a potentially more isolated setting.
Looking for More Options?
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