Three and four-year-olds participate in a four-day-per-week part-time preschool. This component of preschool has a strong literacy emphasis, and uses techniques that are consistent with the balanced literacy program used in the elementary school. An educated and caring staff of four help the children make the transition to school and continue Guadalupe’s strong emphasis on child-centered education. This low instructor-student ratio of 1:6 means our students are fully prepared for kindergarten after 2 years of preschool.

The children receive warm breakfast or lunch, depending on whether they attend in the morning or afternoon. The staff work collectively on planning and implementing the literacy based curriculum. Two of the staff are bi-lingual and most activities are done in English and Spanish. There is a strong dedication to respect the children’s culture and value their first language while promoting their understanding of English. Academic skills are taught by integrating pre-literacy and math concepts into everyday life. Increased language, physical, social and emotional development provide the basis of the program.

During the summer the Home-Based Preschool Program hosts family outings to further the development of our families and enhance the growing appreciation of community.