The Best Preschools in De Tour Village, MI
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in De Tour Village. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Little Saints Learning Center
Independent
Little Saints Learning Center is a highly-rated independent preschool in Sault Ste. Marie, serving families across the Eastern Upper Peninsula including De Tour Village. With a 4.7-star rating from 45 reviews, it emphasizes a play-based curriculum that fosters early literacy, math readiness, and social-emotional development. The center maintains small class sizes with qualified teachers, holds state licensing, and has a strong safety record with secure facilities and regular drills. Parents praise its nurturing environment and individualized attention, making it a top choice for early childhood education in the region.
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Sault Area Schools Early Childhood Center
Sault Area School District
Operated by the Sault Area School District, this center provides high-quality, state-licensed preschool education to children in Chippewa County, including De Tour Village. Rated 4.4 stars with 68 reviews, it offers evidence-based curricula aligned with Michigan early learning standards, focusing on school readiness and developmental milestones. The center features certified teachers, low student-teacher ratios, and robust safety protocols, including background checks and emergency plans. Parent satisfaction is high due to its inclusive programs and strong community partnerships.
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Lake Superior State University Child Development Center
Lake Superior State University
The LSSU Child Development Center serves the wider Eastern UP community, including De Tour Village, with a 4.5-star rating from 52 reviews. It offers a research-backed curriculum that integrates hands-on learning, creativity, and STEM activities, supported by qualified early childhood educators. The center is known for its safe, nurturing environment, with secure access, health screenings, and accreditation from relevant bodies. Parents highlight its engaging programs and flexible scheduling, contributing to its reputation for excellence in early childhood development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in De Tour Village, MI:
Are there licensed preschools within De Tour Village, and how can I verify their quality?
De Tour Village is a small, rural community, so dedicated preschool facilities within the village limits are limited. Many families utilize licensed home-based daycare programs that offer preschool curricula or consider programs in nearby towns like Sault Ste. Marie. You can verify the license and review any past inspection reports for any provider through the State of Michigan's online licensing database for child care centers and homes.
What are the typical costs for preschool or early childhood programs in the De Tour Village area?
Costs can vary significantly based on the type of program. Licensed home daycares offering preschool activities may range from $150 to $250 per week. For center-based programs in Sault Ste. Marie, you might expect $175 to $300+ weekly. It's crucial to inquire about what is included, such as meals and supplies. Given the area's remote nature, transportation costs to a program outside the village are an additional consideration.
How do I navigate the limited preschool options and long waiting lists in this remote area?
Due to the limited number of providers, planning well in advance—often a year or more—is essential. Start by contacting the Chippewa County Great Start Collaborative, which can provide a current list of all licensed options in the county. Be prepared to be flexible with days and hours, and consider joining community Facebook groups where local parents often share information about openings in home-based settings.
What unique factors should I consider for preschool in a remote location like De Tour Village?
Key considerations include the program's plan for emergency services given the distance from major hospitals, their policy on severe weather and island ferry schedules if applicable, and their approach to incorporating the natural, lakeside environment into learning. Also, inquire about their network for socialization, as small programs may arrange playgroups or outings to ensure children have ample peer interaction.
Are there any state or local resources to help pay for preschool in Chippewa County?
Yes, Michigan's Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) offers free preschool for eligible 4-year-olds. While there may not be a GSRP classroom in De Tour Village itself, there are classrooms in Chippewa County, and transportation may be provided. You can apply through the Eastern Upper Peninsula Intermediate School District (EUPISD). Also, check if providers accept payments from the state's Child Development and Care (CDC) subsidy program for qualifying families.
Nearby Cities
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