The Best Preschools in Sharps, VA
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Sharps. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
The Goddard School of Kilmarnock
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Kilmarnock is a highly-rated early childhood education center serving the Northern Neck area including Sharps. This facility operates with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic readiness, social development, and creative expression. They maintain low student-to-teacher ratios, employ degreed teachers, and offer secure facilities with keypad entry systems. The curriculum includes STEAM learning, sign language for infants and toddlers, and character development programs. Parents consistently praise the caring staff, clean environment, and comprehensive educational approach.
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Kilmarnock Baptist Preschool
Kilmarnock Baptist Church
Kilmarnock Baptist Preschool has been serving families in Lancaster County and surrounding areas including Sharps for over two decades. This faith-based preschool provides a nurturing environment with a balanced approach to early childhood development. The program focuses on socialization skills, early literacy, basic math concepts, and Christian values through age-appropriate activities. The facility features secure classrooms, outdoor play areas, and experienced teachers with background checks and ongoing training. The preschool is known for its warm, family-oriented atmosphere and strong community reputation.
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Northern Neck Montessori School
Independent Nonprofit
Northern Neck Montessori School serves children from Sharps and throughout the Northern Neck region with authentic Montessori education. The school features AMI-trained teachers and mixed-age classrooms that encourage independent learning and social development. Their program emphasizes hands-on learning, practical life skills, sensorial development, and individualized academic progress. The facility includes carefully prepared Montessori environments, outdoor learning spaces, and natural playgrounds. The school maintains small class sizes and focuses on developing the whole child—academically, socially, and emotionally—while fostering independence and love of learning.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Sharps, VA:
What are the typical costs for preschool in Sharps, VA, and are there any local financial assistance options?
In Sharps and the surrounding Northern Neck area, preschool tuition can range from approximately $150 to $250 per week, depending on the program's hours and curriculum. For financial assistance, parents can inquire about scholarships directly with individual centers or apply for the Virginia Preschool Initiative (VPI) through the local school district if eligible based on income. Additionally, some local churches that operate preschools may offer sliding scale fees.
How do I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Sharps?
All licensed preschools in Virginia are regulated by the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) and the Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS). You can search for a specific facility's licensing history and inspection reports on the VDSS website. For local insight, visiting the program, asking for references from current parents, and checking if they are accredited by organizations like the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) are crucial steps.
What types of preschool programs are available in the Sharps area?
Given Sharps' rural setting in Lancaster County, options typically include home-based family day care programs, church-affiliated preschools (often part-day), and private childcare centers. Some programs may follow specific educational philosophies like Montessori or play-based learning. Due to the smaller number of options, many families in the Northern Neck also consider reputable preschools in nearby towns like Kilmarnock or White Stone.
When should I apply for preschool in Sharps, and what is the typical enrollment process?
Due to limited slots in this smaller community, it is advisable to begin researching and contacting preschools at least 6-12 months before your desired start date, often in the preceding fall or winter. The enrollment process usually involves a tour, submission of an application and fee, and providing up-to-date immunization records as required by Virginia state law. Some programs may have waiting lists, so early inquiry is key.
Are there any unique considerations for preschools in a rural area like Sharps, VA?
Yes, transportation is a primary consideration, as most preschools in Sharps do not provide bus service, requiring parent drop-off and pick-up. The community-oriented nature can be a benefit, with smaller class sizes and familiar faces, but it also means fewer choices compared to urban areas. It's also wise to inquire about their plans for inclement weather, as rural roads can be impacted.
Nearby Cities
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