The Best Preschools in Drury, MO
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Drury. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
KinderCare Learning Center at Glenstone
KinderCare Education LLC
KinderCare at Glenstone is a highly-rated early learning center known for its comprehensive curriculum that balances academic readiness with social-emotional development. The facility employs state-licensed teachers with specialized training in early childhood education and maintains rigorous safety protocols, including secured entry systems and regular safety drills. Parents consistently praise the center's engaging learning environments, which include age-appropriate activities in literacy, math, and STEM. With a focus on individualized learning plans and strong parent communication, this center has built a reputation for fostering confident, curious learners in the Southwest Missouri region, serving families from Drury and surrounding areas.
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The Goddard School of Springfield
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Springfield offers a play-based learning approach aligned with Missouri Early Learning Standards, emphasizing creativity, critical thinking, and character development. The center features low student-to-teacher ratios, certified educators with ongoing professional development, and a secure facility with monitored access and hygiene protocols. Parent reviews highlight the school's nurturing environment, robust communication through daily updates, and success in preparing children for elementary school. Serving the broader Ozarks region, including Drury, it is recognized for its high parent satisfaction and commitment to safety and educational excellence.
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Primrose School of Springfield
Primrose School Franchising Company
Primrose School of Springfield is renowned for its Balanced Learning® curriculum, which integrates academic, physical, and social-emotional learning through hands-on activities and character development programs. The center maintains high safety standards with secure facilities, background-checked staff, and health-focused practices. Teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the school receives consistent praise for its structured yet flexible approach and strong community involvement. Catering to families in Drury and nearby communities, it boasts a track record of positive outcomes and parent trust, supported by a welcoming and inclusive environment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Drury, MO:
What are the typical costs for preschool programs in Drury, Missouri?
In Drury and the surrounding Ozark County area, preschool costs can vary. Many local in-home or church-based programs may range from $100-$200 per month for part-time schedules. It's important to inquire about what is included, as some programs may have additional fees for supplies or meals. For comparison, you can also explore state-funded options like Missouri's Early Childhood Special Education or the voluntary Pre-K program if offered through the local school district.
How do I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Drury?
All licensed child care and preschool facilities in Missouri are regulated by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) and the Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS). You can use the Missouri Child Care Search online tool to check a specific provider's license status, inspection reports, and any compliance history. For Drury specifically, you can also ask providers for their license number and contact the local Ozark County Health Department for additional community insights.
What types of preschool programs are available in a small town like Drury?
Given Drury's rural setting, options often include family child care homes, faith-based preschools often attached to local churches, and potentially a part-time program through the local school district. Some families also form cooperative playgroups. Due to the smaller population, programs may offer mixed-age settings and have more flexible, relationship-based approaches, but you may need to consider a slightly longer commute to neighboring towns for more structured or full-day options.
When should I start looking and applying for preschool enrollment in Drury?
Due to limited slots in a small community, it's advisable to start your search and inquiries at least 6-12 months before your desired start date, especially for the most popular local options. Many programs in the area follow a traditional school year calendar (August/September start), with registration opening in the early spring. Contacting providers directly in January or February is a good rule of thumb to secure a spot for the following fall.
Are there any unique local considerations for preschools in the Drury area?
Yes, transportation is a key factor, as most preschools in rural Ozark County do not provide bus service, so parents must arrange drop-off and pick-up. Weather can also impact accessibility on rural roads. Additionally, the close-knit community can be a benefit; asking for recommendations at the Drury Post Office or local churches can provide trustworthy, firsthand accounts of different programs. Be sure to ask about a provider's emergency plans for severe weather common to the Missouri Ozarks.
Looking for More Options?
Explore preschools in other cities across Missouri or search our full directory of early learning centers nationwide.