The Best Preschools in South Saint Paul, MN
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in South Saint Paul. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
New Horizons Academy
New Horizons Academy
New Horizons Academy is a highly-regarded early learning center located directly in South Saint Paul, serving children from 6 weeks to 12 years old. The facility features a comprehensive curriculum focused on school readiness, including STEM activities, literacy development, and social-emotional learning. With small class sizes and experienced educators, the center maintains excellent safety standards and strong parent communication. Their NAEYC-inspired approach emphasizes play-based learning while ensuring children develop foundational academic skills. The center has maintained consistent high ratings for over 15 years in the community.
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Kiddie Academy of West St. Paul
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of West St. Paul serves the broader South Saint Paul area with their nationally recognized Life Essentials curriculum. This facility features state-of-the-art security systems, highly qualified teachers with early childhood degrees, and a comprehensive educational program that balances academic preparation with character development. The academy emphasizes technology integration, foreign language exposure, and community awareness activities. Parents consistently praise the center's communication, cleanliness, and the visible developmental progress children make. Their structured yet nurturing environment prepares children exceptionally well for kindergarten.
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Primrose School of Inver Grove Heights
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Inver Grove Heights serves South Saint Paul families with their acclaimed Balanced Learning approach, blending purposeful play with nurturing guidance from master-level teachers. The facility features modern security technology, nutritionally balanced meals prepared on-site, and extensive outdoor learning environments. Their curriculum includes character development, literacy-rich classrooms, and hands-on STEAM activities. The school maintains exceptional staff retention rates and comprehensive safety protocols. Parents consistently report outstanding communication and remarkable academic and social growth in their children, making it one of the highest-rated early education options in the Twin Cities metro area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in South Saint Paul, MN:
What is the typical cost of preschool in South St. Paul, MN, and are there financial assistance options?
Tuition for full-day preschool programs in South St. Paul typically ranges from $800 to $1,200 per month, while part-day options can be $200-$400 monthly. Financial assistance is available through the Minnesota Early Learning Scholarship program, and many local centers offer sliding scale fees based on income. It's also worth checking with the South St. Paul School District for potential early childhood family education (ECFE) scholarships.
How do I evaluate the quality and licensing of preschools in South St. Paul?
All licensed preschools in Minnesota are rated through Parent Aware, a state quality rating system—look for programs with 3 or 4 stars. You can verify a center's license and review any compliance reports through the Minnesota Department of Human Services website. Additionally, scheduling a tour to observe classroom interactions and asking about staff qualifications and turnover is highly recommended.
What are the enrollment timelines and key deadlines for preschools in South St. Paul?
Many preschools, especially those affiliated with the South St. Paul Public Schools, begin registration for the following fall as early as January or February. Private centers often have rolling enrollment but fill popular slots months in advance. It's advisable to start researching and visiting schools the fall before you intend to enroll, as waiting lists are common for high-demand programs.
What types of preschool programs are available in South St. Paul, such as play-based or academic-focused?
South St. Paul offers a mix of approaches, including play-based, Montessori, faith-based, and more structured academic programs. The South St. Paul School District provides public preschool options with a curriculum aligned with early learning standards, while private centers may specialize. Consider your child's learning style and visit programs to see which philosophy feels like the best fit for your family.
Are there specific considerations for preschool location and transportation in South St. Paul?
South St. Paul is a compact community, so many families choose preschools close to home or along their work commute. The public school district may provide transportation for its district-run preschool programs, but most private centers do not offer bus service. When evaluating location, consider not just proximity but also the safety of the drop-off/pick-up area and parking availability.
Nearby Cities
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