The Best Preschools in Tarawa Terrace, NC
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Tarawa Terrace. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
The Goddard School of Jacksonville
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Jacksonville is a highly-rated preschool serving the Tarawa Terrace area with a F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with play-based development. The facility features secure entry systems, certified teachers with early childhood education backgrounds, and age-appropriate learning environments. Their curriculum focuses on literacy, mathematics, science, social studies, and arts, with additional enrichment programs in yoga, sign language, and Spanish. The school maintains excellent parent satisfaction ratings and serves many military families from the nearby Camp Lejeune area.
Programs Offered:
Primrose School of Jacksonville
Primrose School Franchising Company
Primrose School of Jacksonville offers a balanced learning approach through their exclusive Balanced Learning® curriculum, combining teacher-directed and child-initiated activities. The school features purpose-built classrooms, secure facilities with controlled access, and highly qualified early childhood educators. Their curriculum emphasizes character development, literacy, mathematics, and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) concepts. The school maintains strong safety protocols and has received excellent parent reviews for their communication, cleanliness, and educational quality, serving families throughout the Jacksonville/Tarawa Terrace region.
Programs Offered:
Creative Schools of Hubert
Creative Schools Management
Creative Schools of Hubert serves the Tarawa Terrace community with a comprehensive early childhood education program located just minutes from the base. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate learning environments, and a curriculum that balances academic preparation with social-emotional development. Their program includes literacy development, mathematics concepts, science exploration, and creative arts, with additional focus on physical development and social skills. The school has established an excellent reputation for serving military families with flexible scheduling and understanding of military lifestyle challenges, maintaining high parent satisfaction ratings and strong educational outcomes.
Programs Offered:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Tarawa Terrace, NC:
What is the typical cost of preschool in Tarawa Terrace, and are there any local military-affiliated subsidies?
In Tarawa Terrace, monthly preschool tuition typically ranges from $600 to $900, though costs can vary based on program hours and curriculum. Given the proximity to Camp Lejeune, many preschools offer discounts or adjusted rates for military families, and you may be eligible for fee assistance through the Child Care Aware of America program which partners with military installations. It's advisable to inquire directly with each center about their specific military family policies.
How do I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Tarawa Terrace?
All licensed preschools in North Carolina, including those in Tarawa Terrace, are regulated by the NC Division of Child Development and Early Education. You can check a facility's license status, view any compliance history, and see their Star Rated License (a 1 to 5-star quality rating) online through the NC DHHS Child Care Finder website. Visiting in person and asking about staff qualifications and curriculum is also crucial for assessing quality.
Are there preschools in Tarawa Terrace that offer flexible schedules for military families with unpredictable duties?
Yes, several preschools and child development centers in the Tarawa Terrace area are accustomed to the needs of military families. Some offer extended hours, part-time options, or more flexible drop-in care to accommodate changing schedules and deployments. The on-base Child Development Center (CDC) at Camp Lejeune often has structured programs with this flexibility, and some off-base providers in the community also cater specifically to this need.
What types of preschool programs are most common in the Tarawa Terrace area?
You will find a mix of play-based, academic, and faith-based preschool programs in Tarawa Terrace. Many centers utilize nationally recognized curricula like Creative Curriculum or HighScope. Given the community's demographics, there are also strong, state-funded NC Pre-K programs available for eligible 4-year-olds at specific locations, which focus on school readiness.
When should I start applying for preschools in Tarawa Terrace, and what is the typical enrollment process?
Due to high demand, especially for popular programs, it is recommended to start researching and applying 6-12 months before your desired start date. The enrollment process usually involves a tour, completing application forms, providing immunization records, and often a registration fee. For military families seeking care at the Camp Lejeune CDC, you must register through the MilitaryChildCare.com website to get on the centralized waitlist.
Nearby Cities
Explore preschools in cities near Tarawa Terrace:
Looking for More Options?
Explore preschools in other cities across North Carolina or search our full directory of early learning centers nationwide.