The Best Preschools in Lake Mills, WI
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Lake Mills. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
The Goddard School of Johnson Creek
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Johnson Creek is a highly-rated early childhood education center located just 10 minutes from Lake Mills. They offer a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic, social, and emotional development. The facility features modern classrooms, secure entry systems, and age-appropriate playgrounds. Their curriculum includes STEAM learning, language arts, and social development activities, all delivered by qualified early childhood educators. Parents consistently praise the school's nurturing environment, structured curriculum, and excellent teacher-student interactions.
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Cambridge Early Learning Center
Independent
Cambridge Early Learning Center serves families in the Lake Mills area with their comprehensive early childhood programs located approximately 15 minutes away. This family-owned center emphasizes play-based learning within a structured environment, focusing on kindergarten readiness skills. Their curriculum includes literacy development, math concepts, science exploration, and social-emotional learning. The center maintains small class sizes with low student-teacher ratios and features secure facilities with outdoor play areas. Parents frequently highlight the caring staff, clean environment, and excellent communication from teachers.
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St. Mark's Lutheran Preschool
St. Mark's Lutheran Church
St. Mark's Lutheran Preschool in Watertown (approximately 15 minutes from Lake Mills) has been serving families for over two decades with their well-regarded early childhood program. They offer a balanced curriculum that combines academic preparation with Christian values and character development. The program focuses on developing social skills, early literacy, math readiness, and fine motor skills through hands-on learning activities. The experienced teaching staff maintains strong parent-teacher communication and creates a warm, nurturing environment. The facility includes age-appropriate classrooms and playgrounds, with an emphasis on safety and individualized attention.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Lake Mills, WI:
What are the typical costs for preschool programs in Lake Mills, WI?
In Lake Mills, preschool tuition can vary widely based on program type and schedule. Community-based or church-affiliated preschools may range from $100-$250 per month for part-time programs, while full-day, center-based care can cost $800-$1,200 monthly. It's advisable to directly contact programs like Lake Mills Early Learning Center or local in-home providers for current rates and to inquire about potential Wisconsin Shares childcare subsidy eligibility.
How do I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Lake Mills?
All licensed preschools and childcare centers in Wisconsin, including those in Lake Mills, are regulated by the Department of Children and Families (DCF). You can use the "YoungStar" rating system, Wisconsin's quality rating and improvement program, to check a provider's score (1-5 stars) online. Additionally, you can review any licensing reports or violations through the DCF's Caregiver Background Check and Licensing Lookup website.
What types of preschool programs are available in Lake Mills, and how do they differ?
Lake Mills offers a mix of public, private, and faith-based options. The Lake Mills Area School District typically offers a 4K program, which is a free, part-day public preschool option. Private choices include center-based programs offering full-day care and traditional part-day preschools, often housed in churches or community buildings, which focus more on school-readiness skills in a shorter session.
When should I apply, and what is the enrollment process for Lake Mills preschools?
Enrollment timelines vary. For the public school 4K program, registration usually opens in early spring for the following fall. Private preschools may have rolling enrollment but often fill spots by late winter or early spring. It's recommended to start researching and visiting options 6-12 months in advance, especially for full-day care, as spaces can be limited in a smaller community like Lake Mills.
Are there preschools in Lake Mills that offer flexible schedules for working parents?
Yes, options exist for different needs. The Lake Mills Early Learning Center and other licensed group centers typically offer full-day, year-round schedules to align with working hours. Many traditional part-day preschools (e.g., 2-3 mornings a week) are less flexible, so working parents often need to pair them with separate childcare. Exploring in-home licensed providers in the area can also offer more personalized and potentially flexible scheduling.
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