The Best Preschools in Saint Charles, MN
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Saint Charles. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
St. Charles Elementary Preschool
St. Charles Public Schools
Part of the St. Charles Public School District, this preschool offers comprehensive early childhood education programs with licensed teachers and developmentally appropriate curriculum. The program focuses on school readiness, social-emotional development, and early literacy skills. They maintain small class sizes and strong parent-teacher partnerships, with many families praising the nurturing environment and qualified staff.
Programs Offered:
Rochester Montessori School
Rochester Montessori School
A highly-regarded Montessori school serving the broader southeastern Minnesota region, including Saint Charles families. The school offers authentic Montessori education with AMI-trained teachers and mixed-age classrooms. Their child-centered approach emphasizes independence, hands-on learning, and individualized development. The facility features beautiful classroom environments with natural materials and extensive outdoor play areas.
Programs Offered:
New Horizon Academy
New Horizon Academy
As Minnesota's largest and most established early learning provider, this Rochester location serves Saint Charles area families with comprehensive early childhood programs. The center features state-approved curriculum, qualified teachers, and modern safety protocols. Their research-based approach focuses on literacy, STEM, and social development. Parents consistently praise the structured learning environment, experienced staff, and excellent communication.
Programs Offered:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Saint Charles, MN:
What are the typical costs for preschool programs in Saint Charles, MN?
In Saint Charles, preschool costs vary by program type. Community-based or church-affiliated preschools may range from $100-$200 per month, while full-day, center-based programs can cost significantly more. It's important to inquire directly with providers like the Saint Charles Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) or local private centers, as many offer sliding scale fees or scholarships based on family income.
How do I know if a Saint Charles preschool is licensed and meets state quality standards?
All licensed preschools in Minnesota, including those in Saint Charles, are regulated by the Department of Human Services (DHS). You can verify a program's license status and review any past licensing violations on the Minnesota DHS Licensing Information Lookup website. Additionally, many local programs participate in Minnesota's Parent Aware star-rated quality system, which is a reliable indicator of program quality.
What are the main types of preschool options available within the Saint Charles community?
Saint Charles offers several types of preschools, including the district-integrated Saint Charles Public Schools Early Childhood programs (like ECFE and School Readiness), private faith-based preschools often associated with local churches, and in-home licensed family child care programs. The Saint Charles Community Education guide is an excellent resource for discovering the current options available each school year.
When should I start looking and applying for preschools in Saint Charles, given the smaller number of options?
Due to limited capacity in a smaller community, it is advisable to start your search and application process in the winter or early spring prior to the fall enrollment you are targeting. Many popular programs, especially the school district's offerings, have registration deadlines or fill quickly. Contacting providers in January or February for the following September is a common and recommended timeline.
Are there preschool programs in Saint Charles that cater to children with special needs or developmental concerns?
Yes. The Saint Charles Public School District provides Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) services for eligible children ages 3-5. These services are often integrated into their general early childhood classrooms. If you have concerns about your child's development, you can contact the district's special education department directly to request a free evaluation and learn about available inclusive programming.
Nearby Cities
Explore preschools in cities near Saint Charles:
Looking for More Options?
Explore preschools in other cities across Minnesota or search our full directory of early learning centers nationwide.