Established in 1992, the Preschool Program is founded on the premise that early intervention is essential for the success of at-risk children. One hundred thirty children, birth to age four, participate in Guadalupe’s preschool. During the school year, the waiting list for preschool ranges from 40 to 100 children.

Our School-Based Preschool Program provides two years of preschool for students. Three- and four-year-olds participate in four half days per week. 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. Our educated and caring staff of four help the students make the transition into the school environment and continue Guadalupe’s strong emphasis on child-centered education. The low instructor-student ratio of 1:6 means that our teachers can devote more time into fully preparing preschoolers for kindergarten.

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 are the basis of the program.