The Best Preschools in De Pere, WI
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in De Pere. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
The Goddard School of De Pere
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of De Pere is a highly-rated early childhood education center offering play-based learning with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience). The facility features modern classrooms, secure entry systems, and outdoor play areas. Their curriculum focuses on academic readiness, social-emotional development, and creative expression. Teachers hold early childhood education degrees and receive ongoing professional development. The school maintains excellent safety protocols and has strong parent communication systems.
Programs Offered:
Children's Campus of De Pere
St. Norbert College
Children's Campus of De Pere, affiliated with St. Norbert College, provides high-quality early childhood education with a research-based curriculum. The facility serves as a lab school for education students while maintaining low student-teacher ratios. Their program emphasizes hands-on learning, literacy development, and social skills. The center features age-appropriate learning environments, nutritious meal programs, and strong community connections. Parent satisfaction is consistently high due to their transparent communication and educational excellence.
Programs Offered:
The Learning Shop Preschool
Independent
Located just minutes from De Pere in Green Bay, The Learning Shop Preschool serves families throughout the greater De Pere area with exceptional early childhood education. Their play-based curriculum incorporates Montessori and Reggio Emilia influences, focusing on individualized learning and creative exploration. The facility features bright, well-organized classrooms, extensive learning materials, and dedicated art and music spaces. With highly qualified teachers and small class sizes, they provide strong kindergarten preparation and have earned outstanding parent reviews for their nurturing environment and educational outcomes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in De Pere, WI:
What is the typical cost of preschool in De Pere, WI, and are there financial assistance options?
In De Pere, monthly preschool tuition typically ranges from $200 to $500, depending on the program's schedule (half-day vs. full-day), curriculum, and whether it's faith-based or secular. Financial assistance is available through Wisconsin's statewide YoungStar program, which helps eligible families, and many local preschools offer their own scholarships or sliding scale fees. It's also worth checking with the De Pere Unified School District for potential 4K partnership programs.
How do I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in De Pere?
All licensed preschools in Wisconsin, including De Pere, are regulated by the Department of Children and Families (DCF). You can verify a program's license and review any past violations on the DCF's "Child Care Finder" website. Additionally, look for programs rated through Wisconsin's YoungStar quality rating system, with 5 stars being the highest; many De Pere preschools actively participate in this voluntary program to demonstrate their commitment to quality.
What are the enrollment timelines and age cut-offs for preschools in De Pere?
Many De Pere preschools, especially those affiliated with the public school district for 4-year-old kindergarten (4K), begin registration in January or February for the following fall semester. The age cut-off for 4K is typically that a child must be 4 years old on or before September 1st. For private and community-based programs, timelines can vary, so it's crucial to contact schools directly in the fall prior to your desired start date, as popular programs fill quickly.
What types of preschool programs are commonly available in De Pere?
De Pere offers a diverse mix of preschool options, including public 4K programs through the Unified School District, private faith-based preschools (often Lutheran or Catholic), Montessori schools, and community-based centers. Many programs offer flexible schedules, such as 2, 3, or 5 half-days per week. The city's strong community feel is reflected in programs that often incorporate local field trips and outdoor play in neighborhood parks.
How can I assess the safety and daily routine of a preschool during a visit in De Pere?
When visiting a De Pere preschool, ask to see their state licensing file, inquire about staff-to-child ratios (Wisconsin mandates 1:10 for this age group), and observe the security of entrances. A quality program will gladly show you their daily schedule, which should balance structured activities, free play, and outdoor time—weather permitting in our climate. Pay attention to how staff interact with children and ask about their policies for outdoor play in both summer and winter conditions.
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