The Best Preschools in Mustoe, VA
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Mustoe. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
The Children's Center of Monterey
Highland County Public Schools
The Children's Center of Monterey is Highland County's primary early childhood education facility, operated through the local school system. This center serves as the main preschool option for Highland County residents, including Mustoe families. They offer comprehensive early learning programs with Virginia Standards of Learning alignment, qualified early childhood educators, and developmental assessments. The facility maintains small class sizes and focuses on school readiness skills including literacy, numeracy, and social development. As part of the public school system, they follow strict safety protocols and maintain high educational standards.
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Staunton Montessori School
Staunton Montessori School
Staunton Montessori School is a highly-regarded AMI-recognized Montessori program serving families throughout the Shenandoah Valley, including Highland County. Located approximately 45 minutes from Mustoe, this facility offers authentic Montessori education with certified Montessori teachers and carefully prepared classroom environments. The program emphasizes individualized learning, practical life skills, sensorial development, and foundational academic preparation. Parents consistently praise the school's nurturing environment, qualified staff, and the impressive developmental outcomes for children. The school maintains small student-teacher ratios and emphasizes holistic child development.
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The Goddard School of Harrisonburg
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Harrisonburg is part of the nationally recognized Goddard System and serves as a premier early childhood education option for families in the region, including those commuting from Highland County. Located approximately 1 hour from Mustoe, this facility offers a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic preparation with social-emotional development. The school features modern facilities, secure environments, and degreed teachers who implement developmentally appropriate practices. The curriculum includes literacy development, mathematics, science exploration, and creative arts, with strong emphasis on safety protocols and parent communication.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Mustoe, VA:
What are the main types of preschool options available in Mustoe, VA, and the surrounding Highland County area?
In Mustoe and greater Highland County, options typically include small, home-based preschool programs, church-affiliated preschools, and participation in the state-funded Virginia Preschool Initiative (VPI) through the local public school system. Due to the rural nature of the area, many families also consider family childcare providers or cooperative arrangements. It's important to start your search early, as choices are more limited compared to urban areas.
How can I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Mustoe?
All licensed childcare providers in Virginia, including those in Mustoe, are regulated by the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE). You can use the VDOE's online search tool to find licensed providers, view their inspection reports, and check for any violations. For the most current information, you can also contact the Highland County Public Schools administrative office, as they often have insights into local early childhood programs.
What is the typical cost of preschool in Mustoe, and are there any financial assistance programs?
Costs can vary, but home-based and small programs in this rural area may range from $100 to $200 per week. The Virginia Preschool Initiative (VPI) provides free, quality preschool for eligible three- and four-year-olds based on family income and other risk factors through Highland County Public Schools. Additionally, the Virginia Child Care Subsidy Program assists income-eligible families with costs at participating providers.
Given Mustoe's rural location, what should I consider regarding transportation and schedule flexibility?
Most preschools in Mustoe and Highland County do not provide transportation, so parents must arrange for drop-off and pick-up. Schedules may also be more limited, often offering part-day, 2-3 day per week programs rather than full-time, five-day options. When evaluating a preschool, confirm the exact hours and calendar, and have a reliable transportation plan in place for the often scenic but lengthy country roads.
How do preschool curricula in Mustoe programs typically align with preparing children for kindergarten at Highland County Elementary?
Local programs, especially the VPI and those that coordinate with the school district, align their curricula with the Virginia Early Learning and Development Standards (ELDS). These standards are designed to ensure school readiness. It's a good idea to ask a provider directly how their activities promote early literacy, math, and social skills that form the foundation for the kindergarten curriculum at Highland County Elementary School.
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