The Best Preschools in Crabtree, PA
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Crabtree. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
The Goddard School of Greensburg
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Greensburg is a highly-rated early childhood education center located approximately 6 miles from Crabtree. This facility operates under the nationally recognized Goddard School franchise system with FLEX Learning Program curriculum that balances academic learning with creative play. Features include state-of-the-art security systems, low student-teacher ratios, and degreed teachers. The school offers comprehensive early learning programs from infants through pre-K with emphasis on literacy, STEM, and social development. Parents consistently praise the caring staff, clean facilities, and strong educational foundation provided.
Programs Offered:
The Children's Village at Jeannette
The Children's Village
The Children's Village is a respected early learning center located about 8 miles from Crabtree, serving Westmoreland County families. This facility operates multiple quality-rated programs including state-funded Pre-K Counts and Early Head Start. The center features a play-based learning approach with structured curriculum aligned with Pennsylvania Early Learning Standards. Highlights include nutritious meal programs, inclusive classrooms, and family engagement initiatives. The facility maintains excellent safety records and employs qualified early childhood educators with ongoing professional development.
Programs Offered:
Small Wonders Early Learning Center
Small Wonders ELC
Small Wonders Early Learning Center in nearby Latrobe (approximately 7 miles from Crabtree) provides comprehensive early childhood education services with a focus on individualized learning. The center offers age-appropriate curriculum that emphasizes cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development through hands-on activities and structured play. Facilities include secure entry systems, modern classrooms, and outdoor play areas. The center maintains small class sizes with qualified teachers and assistants, and has built a strong reputation for nurturing environments and school readiness preparation over nearly two decades of operation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Crabtree, PA:
What is the typical cost of preschool in Crabtree, PA, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Crabtree and the surrounding Westmoreland County area, monthly preschool tuition typically ranges from $150 to $350, depending on the program's schedule and philosophy. For financial assistance, Pennsylvania's Child Care Works (CCW) subsidy program is available for eligible families, and some local churches or community centers may offer sliding-scale tuition. It's best to inquire directly with each preschool about their specific fees and any scholarships they might offer.
How can I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Crabtree?
All licensed preschools in Pennsylvania, including those in Crabtree, are regulated by the Department of Human Services (DHS). You can verify a program's license status and review any compliance history through the DHS online facility search tool. Additionally, you can ask directors if they participate in Pennsylvania's voluntary quality rating system, Keystone STARS, which indicates a commitment to higher standards.
What are the enrollment timelines and age requirements for preschools in Crabtree?
Many preschools in the Crabtree area begin their enrollment periods in January or February for the following fall semester, with some offering rolling admission if spots remain. Typical age requirements are that a child must be 3 or 4 years old by a specific date, often August 31st or September 1st, to enroll in the corresponding class. Contacting schools by early winter is recommended to secure a spot.
Are there specific types of preschool programs available in the Crabtree community?
Yes, Crabtree offers a mix of preschool options, including faith-based programs often affiliated with local churches, traditional play-based preschools, and some home-based family child care programs that serve preschoolers. Given the area's setting, many programs incorporate outdoor play and nature exploration. For more structured academic approaches, parents may need to look at programs in nearby larger towns like Greensburg.
What should I look for regarding safety and staff qualifications at a Crabtree preschool?
Ensure the preschool has clear safety protocols, including secure check-in/out procedures and a safe outdoor play area. All staff should have current Pennsylvania clearances (Child Abuse, Criminal History, FBI Fingerprinting) and certified teachers should have at least an associate's degree in early childhood education. Don't hesitate to ask about staff-to-child ratios and their emergency procedures for weather or other incidents common to the region.
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