The Best Preschools in Ely, MN
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Ely. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Ely Community Resource
Ely Community Resource
Ely Community Resource is a comprehensive early childhood center offering high-quality preschool and early learning programs. They provide evidence-based early childhood family education with licensed teachers, focusing on school readiness skills, social-emotional development, and cognitive growth. The center serves children from infancy through preschool age with developmentally appropriate curriculum and maintains excellent safety standards. Their programs include parent-child interactive learning opportunities and are highly regarded by local families for their educational quality and nurturing environment.
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Little Treasures Learning Center
Independent
Little Treasures Learning Center is a licensed childcare and preschool facility serving the Ely community with comprehensive early education programs. They offer age-appropriate curriculum focusing on literacy, math readiness, science exploration, and social skills development. The center features qualified early childhood educators, low student-teacher ratios, and a safe, stimulating learning environment. Their program emphasizes hands-on learning experiences and maintains strong parent satisfaction through regular communication and family involvement opportunities.
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Babbitt Early Childhood Family Center
St. Louis County Schools
Located in nearby Babbitt (approximately 20 miles from Ely), this early childhood family center serves the broader region with high-quality preschool and early intervention services. As part of the St. Louis County School District, they offer comprehensive early childhood programs including developmental screening, school readiness curriculum, and special education services. The center features certified early childhood teachers, evidence-based curriculum, and strong safety protocols. They provide transportation options and serve as a regional resource for families in the Iron Range area, including Ely residents.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Ely, MN:
What are the typical costs for preschool programs in Ely, MN?
In Ely, preschool costs can vary, with community-based programs like those at the Ely Community Resource Center often operating on a sliding scale based on family income. Private preschools or in-home licensed programs may range from approximately $150 to $250 per week. It's important to inquire about potential financial assistance through local scholarships or Minnesota's Early Learning Scholarships and Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP).
What types of preschool programs are available in Ely, and how do they differ?
Ely offers a mix of public, private, and community-based options. The Ely Public Schools district typically offers preschool programs, often with a structured curriculum aligned with early learning standards. Additionally, there are licensed family child care homes and center-based programs that may offer more flexible hours or a play-based philosophy. Visiting each setting is the best way to feel the difference in environment and teaching approach.
How do I navigate preschool enrollment timelines and waitlists in a smaller community like Ely?
Due to limited slots, planning ahead is crucial. Contact preschools in Ely the winter or early spring before your child's intended fall start date. Public school preschool programs have specific registration periods, while private providers may enroll on a rolling basis. Always ask about current waitlist lengths and policies, as popular programs can fill up a year in advance.
Are there preschools in Ely that emphasize outdoor or nature-based learning?
Yes, given Ely's location in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, some providers strongly incorporate nature. Look for programs that advertise outdoor play and exploration as a core component, regardless of the weather. Some may follow a "forest school" inspired model, utilizing Ely's extensive trails and natural spaces as an extension of the classroom for hands-on learning.
What should I look for regarding safety and licensing when evaluating an Ely preschool?
First, verify the program is licensed by the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS), which you can check online. During a visit, ask about staff-to-child ratios, staff background checks, emergency procedures, and indoor/outdoor safety protocols. In Ely, also inquire about policies for outdoor excursions and how they prepare for varied weather and remote locations.
Looking for More Options?
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