NE Dallas / Richardson preschool/pre-K (Plano, Temple: credit, daycares, house)

[gogogo35]

We are considering moving to Dallas in August, and I am looking for a pre-K program for my son (who turns 5 in December). I would love to find a Montessori or Emilia Reggio school. I'm not interested in anything church-based.

Will it be difficult for me to find something so close to the fall?

Any recommendations?

I don't mind commuting a ways if I like the program, so it doesn't have to be in the immediate area.

Thanks.

[keribeth818]

There are a million Montessori schools in the area but only a handful are certified such as Alcuin, which would probably be the closest. But you are looking at $20k+ for full time. The rest vary in quality and methods and you really have to visit each one. Most are nothing more than glorified daycare with hyped price tag. Look up IMC, AMI and AMS certified schools. We attend one that would be about a 25-30 minute drive for you but Ive had friends from Richardson make the commute. DM for name if you are interested.

Emilia Reggio in Dallas is almost non-existent. You might find some schools that incorporate it but to my knowledge there aren't any true schools. Just hasnt caught on here yet. You might look at Parker Chase in Plano. I know several families happy there, though not Montessori, they have a good currivulum with a mix of chold-led and teacher-led activities and it is NAEYC accredited.

There's also a state licensing website for all licensed daycares/pre-schools where you can look up incident reports and licensing audit results. Some of the schools recommended to me had some pretty shocking history that would at least deserve questioning if attendance was considered.

[gogogo35]

Thanks. I just sent you a DM. Also wondering if there are any nature-based, outdoor-focused preschools.

[SFAA]

Hello!
We are moving to Richardson are in a few months. I was wondering which school you chose and what your experience has been?

[gogogo35]

Hi -- we chose Montessori Children's House and School (MCHS) at Abrams/Walnut Hill. Would that be too long of a commute for you? There are not very many play-based or outdoor-based programs in Dallas area.

[numbersguy100]

Originally Posted by gogogo35

Hi -- we chose Montessori Children's House and School (MCHS) at Abrams/Walnut Hill. Would that be too long of a commute for you? There are not very many play-based or outdoor-based programs in Dallas area.

There is a new one in Lake Highlands called Blackland Prairie Conservatory or something like that. Waldorf inspired and I think for now it goes from preschool until 1/2 grade. Nice school, just way too far away for us.

[Pokey42]

Temple Emanu-el's Pre-K is Emilia Reggio and it's regarded as one of the best preschools in the city.