The Best Preschools in Summerhill, PA
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Summerhill. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
The Learning Lamp
The Learning Lamp (non-profit organization)
The Learning Lamp is a highly-regarded non-profit early childhood education provider serving Cambria County and surrounding areas, including Summerhill. It offers state-licensed preschool programs with a focus on school readiness, literacy development, and social-emotional skills. The center employs certified teachers, maintains low student-to-teacher ratios, and follows a play-based curriculum aligned with Pennsylvania Early Learning Standards. Parents praise its safe, nurturing environment and affordable options, with many reviews highlighting strong community ties and inclusive programs for diverse learners.
Programs Offered:
KinderCare Learning Center at Johnstown
KinderCare Education
This KinderCare location in Johnstown serves families in Summerhill and the greater Cambria County area with a nationally accredited early childhood program. It features a research-based curriculum emphasizing literacy, math, and social skills, along with enhanced safety protocols like secured entry and regular health checks. Teachers hold early childhood credentials, and the center offers flexible scheduling. Parent reviews frequently commend its engaging activities, clean facilities, and responsive staff, making it a trusted choice for working families.
Programs Offered:
The Goddard School of Johnstown
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Johnstown provides high-quality early learning programs for children in Summerhill and nearby communities, with a focus on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) education through its F.L.E.X. Learning Program. It maintains high safety standards, including background-checked teachers and secure facilities, and promotes individualized learning plans. Parents consistently rate it highly for its professional staff, modern resources, and effective kindergarten preparation, with many noting strong communication and child progress updates.
Programs Offered:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Summerhill, PA:
What is the average cost of preschool in Summerhill, PA, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
In Summerhill and the surrounding Cambria County area, monthly preschool tuition typically ranges from $150 to $300, depending on the program's schedule and philosophy. Many local centers participate in Pennsylvania's Child Care Works (CCW) subsidy program for eligible families, and some church-affiliated preschools may offer reduced rates or scholarships. It's best to inquire directly with each school about their specific fees and aid options.
How can I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Summerhill?
All licensed preschools in Pennsylvania, including those in Summerhill, are regulated by the Department of Human Services (DHS). You can verify a program's license status and review any compliance history on the DHS website. Additionally, you can ask directors if they participate in Keystone STARS, Pennsylvania's voluntary quality rating system, which is a strong indicator of a program's commitment to excellence.
What types of preschool programs are commonly available in the Summerhill area?
Given Summerhill's rural setting, options often include home-based family child care, part-day programs often affiliated with local churches or community centers, and full-day childcare centers. Many families in the area also consider programs in nearby larger towns like Johnstown. Popular curricular approaches include play-based and faith-based programs, with some centers incorporating nature-based learning suited to the local environment.
When should I start looking and applying for preschools in Summerhill, given the limited number of options?
Due to the smaller number of providers in a rural community like Summerhill, it is advisable to begin your search at least 12-18 months before your desired start date, especially for popular programs. Many local preschools have enrollment periods in the early spring (January-March) for the following fall. Contacting programs well in advance to get on a waitlist or inquiry list is highly recommended.
Are there any unique local considerations for preschools in Summerhill, such as transportation or safety?
A key consideration in Summerhill is transportation, as most preschools do not provide bus service, so parents must arrange drop-off and pick-up. Safety considerations are standard, but it's wise to ask about their protocols for severe weather, given the region's climate. Building a relationship with nearby families for potential carpooling can be a practical solution for managing logistics in this community.
Nearby Cities
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