The Best Preschools in Alexandria, MN
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Alexandria. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
KinderCare Learning Center - Alexandria
KinderCare Education LLC
KinderCare Learning Center in Alexandria is a nationally accredited facility offering a structured early learning curriculum focused on literacy, math, and social-emotional development. With highly qualified teachers and a safe, nurturing environment, it emphasizes play-based learning and school readiness. Parents report high satisfaction with the center's communication and engaging activities, supported by a strong safety record and adherence to state licensing standards.
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Alexandria Area YMCA Preschool
YMCA of the USA
The Alexandria Area YMCA Preschool provides a community-focused early learning experience with a balanced curriculum that includes academic foundations, physical activity, and character development. Known for its inclusive environment and experienced staff, the program emphasizes safety, parent involvement, and holistic child growth. It maintains high ratings for its affordable services and commitment to fostering social skills and independence in young learners.
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St. Mary's School Preschool
St. Mary's Catholic Church
St. Mary's School Preschool offers a faith-integrated curriculum that combines academic rigor with moral development, focusing on literacy, numeracy, and social skills in a secure, faith-based setting. With small class sizes and certified teachers, it boasts excellent parent reviews for its caring atmosphere and strong community ties. The program is noted for its high safety standards and effective preparation for elementary school, supported by a long-standing reputation in the area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Alexandria, MN:
What is the average cost of preschool in Alexandria, MN, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
In Alexandria, monthly preschool tuition typically ranges from $200 to $350, depending on the program's schedule and philosophy. Many local centers participate in the Minnesota Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), and some may offer sliding scale fees or scholarships. It's also worth checking with individual centers, like those run by the Alexandria School District (Community Education) or local churches, as they often have very affordable options.
How do I find licensed and high-quality preschool programs in Alexandria?
Start by using the Minnesota Department of Human Services' online "Find Child Care" tool to verify the licensing status of any program. For quality, look for centers with a Parent Aware Star Rating, Minnesota's quality rating system; several Alexandria preschools participate. Additionally, scheduling in-person tours at places like Discovery Woods Preschool or the YMCA Early Learning Center allows you to observe the environment and ask about their curriculum directly.
What are the enrollment timelines and age requirements for preschools in Alexandria?
Many preschools in Alexandria, including the popular School District 206 Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) programs, begin registration in early spring for the following fall semester. Most programs require children to be 3 or 4 years old by September 1st and fully toilet-trained. Due to high demand, especially for part-day public school options, it's crucial to contact programs by February or March to get on their interest lists.
What types of preschool curricula or philosophies are available in Alexandria?
Alexandria offers a variety of approaches. The public school programs and many centers use play-based learning aligned with Minnesota Early Childhood Indicators of Progress. You can also find faith-based curricula at church-affiliated preschools and programs with a stronger focus on nature and outdoor play, such as those utilizing local parks and trails. It's important to ask how a typical day is structured during your tour.
How do preschools in Alexandria handle safety, security, and communication with parents?
Licensed preschools in Alexandria must meet state safety codes for facilities and staff background checks. Many have secure entry systems and specific pick-up/drop-off procedures. For communication, most programs use a combination of daily reports, apps like Brightwheel or Procare, and parent-teacher conferences. The Alexandria School District programs often use the Infinite Campus portal, providing consistent updates for families transitioning to kindergarten.
Nearby Cities
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