The Best Preschools in Fairchild Air Force Base, WA
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Fairchild Air Force Base. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Fairchild Air Force Base Child Development Center
United States Air Force
The Fairchild AFB Child Development Center is a Department of Defense-operated facility accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). It offers high-quality, developmentally appropriate early childhood education with a focus on school readiness, social-emotional development, and military family support. Features include trained and background-checked staff, secure facilities, and programs tailored to the unique needs of military families, including flexible care options and parent involvement opportunities.
Programs Offered:
The Goddard School of Spokane Valley
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Spokane Valley is a highly-rated private preschool known for its play-based learning approach and F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) curriculum. It emphasizes literacy, STEM, and social skills development in a safe, nurturing environment. With low student-teacher ratios, certified educators, and modern facilities, it serves families in the Fairchild AFB area with flexible scheduling and strong parent communication, consistently receiving high marks for educational quality and child engagement.
Programs Offered:
KinderCare Learning Center at Spokane Valley
KinderCare Education
KinderCare Learning Center at Spokane Valley is a nationally accredited facility offering comprehensive early learning programs focused on kindergarten readiness. Its curriculum includes phonics, math, science, and creative arts, delivered by qualified teachers in a secure setting. The center provides consistency and reliability for military and local families, with emphasis on safety, health protocols, and community involvement. Parent reviews highlight its supportive staff, engaging activities, and positive learning environment.
Programs Offered:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Fairchild Air Force Base, WA:
What are the main options for preschools near Fairchild Air Force Base, and are there any on-base programs?
The primary options include the on-base Child Development Center (CDC) at Fairchild AFB, which offers full-day preschool programs for eligible military families. Off-base, there are several licensed centers and in-home preschools in the surrounding Medical Lake and Spokane areas. Military families are typically given priority at the base CDC, but waiting lists can be long, so exploring both on and off-base options simultaneously is recommended.
How does Washington State's Early Achievers quality rating system help me choose a preschool near Fairchild AFB?
Washington's Early Achievers program rates licensed childcare and preschools on a scale of 1 to 5. You can search the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) website for programs in the 99011 (Medical Lake) or Spokane area to see their ratings. A higher rating (3, 4, or 5) generally indicates a higher quality learning environment, which is a key objective measure when comparing local options.
Are there preschool programs specifically designed to support the unique needs of military children at Fairchild AFB?
Yes, the on-base Child Development Center is experienced in supporting military families through deployments, PCS moves, and the unique base environment. Additionally, the Air Force Aid Society may offer scholarships for preschool, and the Family Child Care (FCC) program on base provides home-based options from certified providers who understand military life. These programs emphasize routines and emotional support tailored to a child in a service member's family.
What is the typical cost of preschool near Fairchild Air Force Base, and is financial assistance available for military families?
Costs vary significantly; the on-base CDC uses a sliding fee scale based on total family income. Off-base preschools in Medical Lake or Spokane can range from $500 to $1,200+ per month. Military families should inquire about the Air Force Fee Assistance program, which can help cover costs for off-base care, and check with the Child and Youth Services Flight for current subsidy opportunities and application processes.
What should I look for regarding safety and security when evaluating preschools in the Fairchild AFB area?
For on-base facilities, security is paramount with controlled base access. For any preschool, verify they are licensed by Washington State DCYF, which requires background checks and health/safety inspections. Specifically ask about pick-up/drop-off procedures, staff-to-child ratios, and emergency plans for incidents like wildfires, which can be a regional concern. A clear open-door policy for parents is also a good sign.
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