Frequently Asked Questions
Thank you for your interest in our preschool. We welcome applications year round as space permits. We enroll for the following school year starting February 1.
St. Paul's Early Childhood Development Center is a nationally accredited, fully licensed, non-profit preschool for children ages 6 weeks through age five. We offer a distinctive, high quality education program from infancy to eighth grade. Our school is dedicated to nurturing, educating and ministering to God's precious children. St. Paul’s is made up of a diverse student body composed of members of the surrounding communities.
Is St. Paul's accredited?
St Paul’s Lutheran School is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and National Lutheran Schools Association (NLSA). St. Paul’s received the highest marks attainable by WASC – a six year clear and received Exemplary Status in 2014 by the NLSA. In 2009 St. Paul's was recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School.
How many students attend the preschool?
We have between 150-180 students in 11 classrooms.
Do you provide snacks and lunch?
Students in the bungalow supply their own snacks and lunches. Students in preschool have morning and afternoon snacks provided and bring lunches from home. Students have the opportunity to purchase a hot lunch weekly on Tuesdays and Fridays.
How much does St. Paul’s cost?
It varies by age group (child's age on September 1st) and programming. Please download our enrollment packet on the registration page for specifics. We offer sibling and St. Paul's church member discounts.
Do children have to be potty trained?
No, potty training is available, though children should be potty trained by our juniors program. Students must bring their own diaper and supplies. There is an extra weekly cost for children who are not potty trained.
Which classroom or age group will my child be in?
Students are placed in classrooms that are appropriate for their age by September 1. This group of students will stay together for the entire school year. This group of peers is also the same that will move on to kindergarten together.
Do the children wear uniforms?
Uniforms are not required at the ECDC, but are a part of our elementary program.
May I tour the campus?
Yes, enrollment typically begins with a tour of the campus where we walk the family and student around the campus and share about our program. Please call the school office (714) 637-2416 to schedule a tour. We do not give tours during nap time.
What are the qualifications of your teachers?
Our teachers and assistant teachers are experienced early childhood educators. They are Christians who provide a warm and loving environment and have a sincere concern for each of our students. They have met and exceeded the State of California Licensing requirements for early childhood educators. Some of our teachers have a Bachelor of Arts degree, Associate of Arts degree or California Child Development Teacher Permit.
All staff participates in a continuous program of in-service training, regular regional workshops, conferences and studies for professional advancement in order to remain alert to the ever changing needs of today’s families and to the findings of current research.
What are your behavior standards?
Students are expected to live by a standard of behavior consistent with the principles of conduct encouraged in the Christian home and church and taught by the living example of Jesus Christ. The Word of God is our source of truth and our final authority regarding conduct. This standard requires behavior attributes of:
- Honesty
- Self-discipline
- Courtesy
- Dependability
- Responsibility
- Integrity
- Consideration of others
- Respect for authority
- Morality
- Desire to learn
- Cooperative spirit