The Best Preschools in Sumner, MS
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Sumner. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
The Goddard School of Clarksdale
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Clarksdale is a highly-regarded early childhood education center located approximately 15 miles from Sumner. They follow the F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic, social, and emotional development. The facility features modern classrooms, secure entry systems, and outdoor play areas. Teachers are trained in early childhood development and maintain low student-to-teacher ratios. The curriculum includes literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies components designed to prepare children for kindergarten success.
Programs Offered:
First United Methodist Church Preschool
First United Methodist Church of Clarksdale
First United Methodist Church Preschool has been serving the Clarksdale area and surrounding communities including Sumner for over 25 years. This faith-based preschool provides a nurturing environment with a balanced curriculum that includes academic preparation, social development, and Christian values. The program focuses on kindergarten readiness through structured learning activities, creative play, and early literacy development. The facility maintains excellent safety standards and features experienced educators with long tenure at the institution.
Programs Offered:
Little Saints Early Learning Center
St. Elizabeth Catholic Church
Little Saints Early Learning Center, operated by St. Elizabeth Catholic Church, serves families throughout the Clarksdale area including Sumner residents. The center provides comprehensive early childhood education with a curriculum that balances academic preparation, spiritual development, and social skills. Facilities include age-appropriate classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and modern learning materials. The program emphasizes literacy development, early math concepts, and character education while maintaining small class sizes and qualified teaching staff with background checks and ongoing professional development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Sumner, MS:
What is the typical cost of preschool in Sumner, MS, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
In Sumner and the surrounding Tallahatchie County area, preschool costs can vary, with many in-home or church-based programs being more affordable, often ranging from $75 to $150 per week. For state-funded programs, families should apply for the Mississippi Early Learning Collaborative (ELC) or Child Care Payment Program (CCPP) through the Mississippi Department of Human Services, which provides subsidies based on income eligibility. It's also worth checking with local centers about possible sliding scale fees.
How can I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Sumner?
All licensed childcare facilities in Mississippi are regulated by the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH). You can search for a specific Sumner provider's licensing status, inspection reports, and any compliance history on the MSDH online Child Care Facility Search portal. Additionally, visiting the preschool in person to observe cleanliness, teacher-child interactions, and safety protocols is highly recommended.
What types of preschool programs are available in Sumner, given its rural setting?
Options in Sumner itself often include family childcare homes, faith-based preschools attached to local churches, and potentially a state-funded Pre-K program through the local public school district or an Early Learning Collaborative. Due to the rural nature, some families may also consider programs in nearby larger towns like Charleston or Clarksdale, which may offer more center-based options with structured curricula.
When should I apply for preschool in Sumner, and what documents are typically required?
Enrollment timelines can vary, but for sought-after programs, especially the state Pre-K classes, applications often open in the early spring for the following fall semester. Commonly required documents include your child's birth certificate, up-to-date immunization records (following Mississippi requirements), proof of Sumner/Tallahatchie County residency, and proof of income for subsidy applications. Contacting providers directly by January or February is a good rule of thumb.
What are key safety and logistical considerations for preschools in a small town like Sumner?
Inquire about the facility's emergency plans for severe weather, which is crucial in Mississippi, and their staff's CPR/first-aid certification. Given the rural location, understanding transportation options is key—most Sumner preschools likely do not provide bus service, so parents must arrange drop-off and pick-up. Also, assess the security of the building, including sign-in/sign-out procedures and outdoor play area fencing.
Nearby Cities
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