The Best Preschools in Arlington, MN
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Arlington. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Arlington Public Schools Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE)
Arlington Public Schools ISD 231
Arlington Public Schools ECFE is a highly-regarded early learning program that focuses on family-centered education for children from birth to age 5. The program emphasizes play-based learning, social-emotional development, and school readiness through structured activities and parent involvement. With licensed teachers and a research-based curriculum, it maintains strong safety protocols and high parent satisfaction rates. Services include developmental screenings, home visits, and community resources, making it a cornerstone for early childhood education in the Arlington area.
Programs Offered:
St. Mary's School Preschool
St. Mary's Catholic Church
St. Mary's School Preschool offers a faith-based early education program that integrates academic readiness with spiritual development. The curriculum includes literacy, math, science, and social skills in a nurturing environment, supported by qualified teachers and low student-to-teacher ratios. Safety is prioritized with secure facilities and background-checked staff. Parent reviews highlight the strong community feel, individualized attention, and effective preparation for kindergarten, making it a trusted choice for families in Arlington.
Programs Offered:
New Horizon Academy - Gaylord
New Horizon Academy
New Horizon Academy in Gaylord is a top-rated early learning center that serves families in Arlington and surrounding areas. It features a comprehensive curriculum focused on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) and literacy, delivered by degreed educators in accredited classrooms. The center emphasizes safety with strict protocols, secure entry systems, and health standards. With high parent satisfaction, it offers flexible scheduling and enrichment programs, making it a popular choice for quality childcare and preschool education in the region.
Programs Offered:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Arlington, MN:
What is the typical cost of preschool in Arlington, MN, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
In Arlington, preschool costs can range from approximately $150 to $250 per week, depending on the program's schedule and philosophy. Many local centers participate in the Minnesota Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which provides subsidies to eligible families. Additionally, some church-affiliated or community-based preschools may offer sliding scale fees or scholarships.
How do I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Arlington?
All licensed preschools and child care centers in Minnesota are regulated by the Department of Human Services (DHS). You can check a specific program's licensing status, any past violations, and their Parent Aware star rating (Minnesota's quality rating system) through the DHS online licensing lookup tool. Visiting in person and asking about staff qualifications and curriculum is also highly recommended.
What are the common preschool schedule options available for families in Arlington?
Options in Arlington typically include part-day (2-3 hour) programs, often offered 2-5 days a week, which are common for 3-5 year olds. Full-day, full-year child care programs that incorporate preschool curriculum are also available for working families. Schedules can vary significantly between public school-based early childhood programs, private centers, and in-home providers, so it's important to ask directly.
Does the Arlington Public School District offer preschool programs?
Yes, Arlington Public School District (Independent School District 231) typically offers early childhood screening and preschool options. These are often income-based or designed for children with specific needs, but they may also have general enrollment slots. Contacting the district's early childhood office directly is the best way to learn about current offerings, eligibility, and enrollment timelines for the school year.
What should I consider regarding location and transportation for preschools in a smaller community like Arlington?
Given Arlington's size, most preschools are centrally located, but transportation is rarely provided by the preschool itself. Parents should factor in their daily commute to drop off and pick up. For families in the surrounding rural areas, the distance to a licensed center in town is a key consideration. Some families opt for licensed family child care providers located closer to their homes in the countryside.
Nearby Cities
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