Questions? We've Got Answers.
Answers to common questions about life at Parkcrest Preschool.
Health & Safety
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How do you ensure my child is safe while at preschool?
Safety is a top priority at Parkcrest Preschool. Our campus is thoughtfully designed to support a secure and calm environment for children and families.
Our facility is located at the back of the campus, away from street view, which naturally limits traffic and unexpected visitors. Gates remain locked throughout the day, except during designated drop-off and pick-up times.
At dismissal, teachers follow an up-to-date Authorized Pick-Up list for each child to ensure students are released only to approved individuals.
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What is your vaccination policy?
In accordance with California state law, all children enrolled in licensed childcare facilities must be up to date on required immunizations. To remain compliant, Parkcrest Preschool requires that all students meet state immunization requirements and have current vaccine records on file.
For additional information regarding state law (SB 277) or a list of required immunizations, families may visit shotsforschool.org.
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What happens if my child needs to take medication during school hours?
We’re equipped to store and administer life-saving medications or medical devices—such as Benadryl, EpiPens, AUVI-Q, or inhalers—but only when the following conditions are met (no exceptions):
- Medication must be brought directly by a parent, not in a backpack or lunchbox
- A fully completed Medication Authorization Form must be on file in the school office
- If applicable, a Nebulizer Care Consent/Verification Form must also be submitted
- Medication must be in its original packaging with clear instructions in English and a proper measuring device included
It is the parent’s responsibility to ensure that all forms remain current and that medications are not expired.
Please note: we cannot administer expired medication under any circumstances.
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How do you handle allergies or dietary restrictions?
We work closely with families to accommodate food allergies and dietary restrictions whenever possible, helping ensure children feel safe, included, and cared for at school.
Accommodations may include preparing allergy-safe alternatives for classroom celebrations or designating classrooms as nut-free when needed. In some cases, when we are unable to safely provide snacks that meet a child’s specific dietary needs, families may be asked to supply allergy-safe snacks that can be stored on campus specifically for their child.
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How do you handle illness and sick children?
To help keep our school community healthy, children who are ill should remain home until they are symptom-free and able to fully participate in the school day. If a child becomes unwell while at school, families will be contacted promptly and asked to arrange pick-up.
Clear illness guidelines help us protect all students and staff while creating a caring, supportive environment for everyone.
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What safety training do staff members receive?
Our staff members receive ongoing training to support child safety, supervision, and well-being. This includes health and safety procedures, emergency preparedness, and best practices for caring for young children in a group setting.
We prioritize preparedness so our teachers can focus on what matters most—supporting children with confidence and care.
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How do you handle emergencies or unexpected situations?
Parkcrest Preschool maintains established emergency procedures and practices to ensure staff are prepared to respond calmly and appropriately in unexpected situations. These procedures are reviewed regularly and align with licensing and campus safety guidelines.
Families are notified as needed, and child safety is always our top priority.
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Are classrooms cleaned and sanitized regularly?
Yes. Our classrooms and shared spaces are cleaned and sanitized regularly to support a healthy learning environment. High-touch surfaces are addressed routinely, and classrooms are maintained with care throughout the school day.
We believe a clean, well-maintained environment helps children feel safe, comfortable, and ready to learn.
Billing & Tuition
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What payment methods do you accept?
We accept all major credit cards, debit cards, ACH payments, cash, and checks. For convenience and ease, we encourage families to submit payments online through Procare, which allows for secure, streamlined billing and account management.
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When is my first payment due?
Tuition is due on the 1st of each month. Families receive an invoice in advance, typically about five days before the due date, that outlines upcoming tuition and any applicable charges from the previous month.
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Does the registration fee count towards my first tuition payment?
The non-refundable registration deposit is paid at the time of enrollment to hold your child’s spot in the program. This fee is separate from monthly tuition and does not apply toward your first payment.
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How do I make a payment to Parkcrest Preschool?
Submitting your payment to Parkcrest Preschool is quick and easy! We accept credit card and debit cards online, and eve offer a convenient auto-billing feature for the parents who love a "set it and forget it" payment model. (Optional, of course!)
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Are there any discounts available?
Yes! Parkcrest Preschool is happy to offer the following discounts:
Sibling Discount
Families with more than one child enrolled at the same time receive:
- 5% off tuition for the second child
- 10% off tuition for each additional child beyond that
Foster, Kinship, or Safe Families Discount
We waive the annual registration deposit for families who are currently providing foster care, kinship care, or Safe Families placement for a preschool-aged child.
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I am in need of a scholarship. What should I do?
Parkcrest Preschool offers a limited scholarship fund each school year, and we may be able to assist. Families who are seeking tuition support are encouraged to reach out directly to our Director, Chelsey Schlatter, to request a Scholarship Application.
Submitted applications are reviewed thoughtfully and confidentially. Scholarship awards are based on available funds and the number of requests received and may be offered as partial or full tuition assistance.
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Are there additional fees beyond tuition?
In addition to monthly tuition, families can expect a non-refundable annual registration fee at the time of enrollment. Optional programs, such as extended care or special sessions, may carry additional fees, which are communicated in advance.
Detailed financial policies (late fees, refunds, tuition adjustments, etc.) are included in the Parent Handbook and available upon request.
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What happens if a payment is late?
Tuition is due on the 1st of each month. If a payment is not received by the due date, families may receive a reminder from our office. While late payments may result in penalty fees, our goal is always to partner with families and communicate early to help avoid additional charges whenever possible.
Detailed financial policies (late fees, refunds, tuition adjustments, etc.) are included in the Parent Handbook and available upon request.
Registration & Enrollment
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How do I secure a spot for my child?
To secure a spot at Parkcrest Preschool, families must complete the online registration packet and submit the non-refundable registration fee after completing a school tour. Enrollment is finalized once all required forms and payment are received.
Because space is limited, enrollment is offered on a first-available basis within each registration window.
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When will I know what class my child is in?
Because registration stays open from January through August, class rosters are always evolving during those months.
Final class lists are confirmed in late August and will be shared with families just before the school year begins.
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Can I choose my child's teacher?
We’re proud of the caring, experienced teachers who make up the Parkcrest Preschool team, and we’re confident your child will have a joyful, enriching experience in any classroom.
While we understand that families may feel a connection to a particular teacher, teacher assignments are determined by administrative discretion. Class rosters are thoughtfully created based on several factors, including age range, peer dynamics, classroom balance, and staff-to-student ratios.
Final classroom placements and teacher assignments are shared with families in the last week of August. Thank you for trusting us to create balanced, thriving classrooms where every child can learn and grow.
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Is enrollment first come, first served?
Enrollment is offered on a first-available basis within each registration window. Priority registration is extended first to eligible families, and remaining spaces are filled as registration materials and fees are received.
Because class sizes are limited, we encourage families to complete the enrollment process as soon as they are ready.
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Can my child start mid-year?
Yes, mid-year enrollment may be available if space allows. Openings depend on current class sizes and age availability.
Families interested in starting mid-year are encouraged to submit an Interest Form so we can explore potential placement options and keep them informed as space becomes available.
Readiness
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What if my child is very upset or cries when I'm leaving?
Tears are completely normal, especially during the first few days of preschool. First-day jitters (and even second- or third-day jitters) are a common part of this transition.
Our staff is experienced in supporting big feelings with warmth, patience, and reassurance. Most children settle in quickly once they feel safe, cared for, and engaged in the classroom.
We’ll keep families updated through Procare and will reach out if a child needs extra support. You’re not alone in this transition—we’re here to help every step of the way.
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How do I know my child is emotionally ready to start preschool?
Every child develops at their own pace, but there are a few key signs that your child is ready to begin their preschool journey. Most importantly, a child is considered emotionally ready when they can:
- Separate from a parent and begin to adapt—progress may take a few weeks, and that’s okay!
- Participate safely and appropriately in a group setting, even when routines feel new.
- Manage big feelings in a way that keeps themselves and others safe.
We’re here to support your child’s transition every step of the way.
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How do I know when my child is fully child potty-trained?
At Parkcrest Preschool, a child is considered fully potty trained when they can consistently demonstrate all three of the following skills:
Communication – Your child can recognize the need to use the bathroom and tell an adult before it becomes urgent, even during play or activities.
Independence – Your child can manage the full bathroom routine independently, including pulling down clothing, using the toilet, wiping, redressing, and washing hands.
Consistency – Your child can make it through the full school day without accidents in their clothing or on the floor.
We understand that every child develops at their own pace, and we’re happy to support continued growth. However, these skills are essential for success and safety within our classroom environment.
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What is my child hasn't fully mastered potty-training?
We understand that potty training looks different for every child, and we’re here to help. If your child is consistently demonstrating two out of the three potty-training skills, but needs a bit more support, they may be eligible for our Potty Program, a short-term plan designed to help bridge the gap.
The Potty Program may include:
- Gentle assistance in the bathroom with clothing or toileting as needed
- One-on-one encouragement for hesitation, anxiety, or moments requiring extra support
- Positive reinforcement and simple incentives to celebrate progress
A small additional fee is added to monthly tuition during participation in the Potty Program. Families are encouraged to connect with our Admin Team to learn more and determine eligibility.
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What is my child isn't 2 yrs, 9 months old yet?
We’d love to stay in touch. If your child is not quite age-eligible yet, families are welcome to join our age-eligible waitlist.
Simply reach out to our Admin Team to have your child added, and we’ll connect with you once they meet the age requirement, pending availability.
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How does Parkcrest prepare children for kindergarten?
At Parkcrest Preschool, kindergarten readiness is about more than academics. We intentionally support the whole child by building foundational skills in early literacy, math, independence, self-regulation, and social confidence.
Through a thoughtful balance of structured learning, hands-on experiences, and play, children develop the skills they need to feel capable, confident, and ready for the next step.
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How will I receive updates or communicate with the school?
Parkcrest Preschool uses the Procare app as our primary communication tool. Families receive regular updates, messages, photos, and important reminders directly through the app.
Our team values open communication and is always available to support families with questions or conversations as they arise.
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What does a typical preschool day look like?
Each preschool day follows a predictable rhythm that balances learning, play, movement, and rest. Children participate in group activities, hands-on learning, outdoor play, and quiet moments, all within a supportive and structured environment.
While activities may vary by classroom, consistent routines help children feel secure, engaged, and ready to learn.