Frequently Asked Questions About Admissions

Does my child need to already speak Spanish to attend La Escuelita?

No, not at all! Teachers are very adept at including English dominant children into classroom play and activities, and every classroom has a mix of children from monolingual English and Spanish to students who come from bilingual (or trilingual or quadrilingual!) families.

What is your sibling policy?

We are a family-oriented school. Siblings have first priority for admissions and are offered placement before non-siblings. However, every year there are open places in every class for new families, and we welcome and value new members of the community.

Why don’t you assess children through playgroups?

We believe, and research has shown, that a dual language, developmentally appropriate preschool education can benefit all children. There is no need for an assessment at the time of application, only a willingness on the part of the family to support bilingualism.

However, based on discussions during family meetings or observations during the first few weeks of class, it occasionally becomes clear that a child may benefit from outside specialist services. In those instances, we assist families in finding those services.

Should I choose 2 days per week, 3 days per week, or 5 days per week for my 2 year old?

This is a conversation to have with the Educational Director during your family meeting. Some 2 year olds are eager to be in a social environment every day, while others benefit from a slower transition from a home to school setting.

Are there spots for families that choose Regular Notification?

Of course! La Escuelita recognizes that not every family is ready to commit to a dual language preschool before hearing from all their options. While many seats are filled by those families choosing Early Notification, in previous years there have been spaces for families applying through Regular Notification.

What’s the difference between the morning and afternoon classes?

Both classes cover the same curriculum, use the same themes, and have the same teachers. However, the afternoon classes tend towards slightly older 2s in the 2/3s class, and slightly older 3s in the 3/4s. In addition, mornings are stressful for many families, and some parents appreciate a more leisurely start to their day. Other families prefer the three day per week afternoon schedule, while the five day morning schedule offers more consistency and Spanish language exposure.

How do you handle separation?

To facilitate separation, our teachers visit each student at their home before the school year begins. By meeting your child in their most familiar environment, teachers make their initial connection when a child is comfortable and supported. Teachers introduce themselves to the student, leading him/her in an individual piece of an art project which will later decorate the classroom door, greeting children on their first day of school.

When the school year begins, some children move to new situations easily and others need a more gradual approach. Caregivers should be available as the child is learning to separate. Your child’s teacher will guide your family through the process. There is no set timetable, as some children are ready to separate on the first day, while others need a week or two to settle into their new environment.