The Best Preschools in Waco, NC
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Waco. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
KinderCare Learning Center of Shelby
KinderCare Education LLC
KinderCare Learning Center of Shelby is a highly-regarded early education facility serving the Waco area with a comprehensive curriculum focused on literacy, math, and social-emotional development. The center maintains strong safety protocols with secured entrances and trained staff, and employs qualified teachers with early childhood credentials. Parents consistently praise the engaging learning environment and structured daily activities that prepare children for kindergarten. With over two decades of operation, this center has built a reputation for reliability and educational excellence in Cleveland County.
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The Goddard School of Gastonia
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Gastonia offers a premier early learning experience with a play-based curriculum that emphasizes STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) concepts. The facility features modern classrooms, age-appropriate learning materials, and stringent safety measures including background-checked teachers and secure facilities. Highly rated by parents for its communicative staff and developmental progress tracking, this school provides a nurturing environment that supports cognitive and social growth for children from infancy through preschool years.
Programs Offered:
Primrose School of Gastonia
Primrose School Franchising Company
Primrose School of Gastonia delivers a nationally-recognized Balanced Learning® approach that blends academic readiness with character development and play-based exploration. The school features purpose-built classrooms, outdoor play areas, and strict safety standards including health protocols and emergency preparedness. With highly qualified educators and low student-teacher ratios, parents report exceptional satisfaction with their children's progress and the school's communicative partnership with families. This facility has established itself as a top choice for early childhood education in the Gastonia area serving Waco families.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Waco, NC:
What is the typical cost of preschool in Waco, NC, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
In Waco and the surrounding Cleveland County area, preschool costs can range from approximately $120 to $250 per week, depending on the program's hours and curriculum. For financial assistance, families should explore the North Carolina Pre-Kindergarten (NC Pre-K) program, which is free for eligible 4-year-olds, and inquire about income-based subsidies through the Child Care Subsidy Program (also known as vouchers) administered by the Cleveland County Department of Social Services.
How can I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Waco, NC?
All licensed child care facilities in North Carolina, including those in Waco, are regulated by the NC Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE). You can use the "Child Care Search" tool on the NC DHHS website to find licensed providers, view their star-rated license (a 1 to 5-star quality rating), and read any recent inspection reports. This is the most reliable way to check a preschool's compliance with state health, safety, and educational standards.
What are the enrollment timelines and key deadlines for preschools in the Waco area?
Many preschools in Cleveland County, including those serving Waco, have enrollment periods in early spring (February-April) for the following fall. However, openings can occur year-round. For the state-funded NC Pre-K program, the application period typically opens in the spring, and it's crucial to apply early through the Cleveland County Partnership for Children, as slots are limited and based on eligibility.
Are there specific preschool programs in Waco that cater to children with special needs or developmental delays?
Yes, Cleveland County offers inclusive services through the NC Pre-K program and other licensed centers that collaborate with the Cleveland County Schools Exceptional Children's program. For children under 3, early intervention services are coordinated through the Children's Developmental Services Agency (CDSA). It's important to discuss your child's specific needs directly with preschool directors to ensure they can provide appropriate support and accommodations.
Given Waco's more rural location, what transportation options are available for preschool?
Most private preschools in the Waco area do not provide transportation; parents are typically responsible for drop-off and pick-up. However, the NC Pre-K program, when housed within a public school location, may offer bus transportation through Cleveland County Schools for eligible children. Always confirm transportation policies directly with the preschool during your initial inquiry, as options are very site-specific.
Nearby Cities
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