Preschool at Washington Elementary School
Richmond, CA
Archived Q&A and Reviews
April 2011
I've heard that there is a public/state-run preschool in Point Richmond, near Washington Elementary, but I can't seem to find any information on it online. Would love to hear from any parents who have children enrolled or recently graduated from this program.
It is a great program: my 13 year old nephew and my 7 year old went there and now my 3.5 yr olds twins go there - all with the same teacher - she is fabulous! It is part of Washington Elementary School (housed in the newly constructed Kindergarten block) but also falls under the West Contra Costa State Preschool Program (they administer the program). Mostly, you have to qualify for a spot in the WCCUSD preschool program and then it is free (income must be below a particular amount for your family size). However Washington is unique in that it also has some fee-paying spots. It is $21 per day and you can send them either 3, 4 or 5 days per week. If you get a free spot you have to go 5 days per week. It is a 3 hour program and includes lunch. For the most part, they put 3 year olds in the afternoon (12:15-3:15) and 4 year olds in the morning (8:30-11:30). Kids must be 3 yrs old by the start of the school year and potty trained. There up to 24 kids in the class and there are two aides along with the teacher. It follows the WCCUSD academic calendar so is closed over school vacations.
Registration for new kids usually happens around June/July for new school year. You will need to call the State preschool Office at (510) 307-4585. The office is located in a funky portable building behind JFK high school - address 567 S. 45th St, Richmond. They are open 8:30-11 and 1-3pm. If you want a fee paying spot be sure to mention that when you call and tell them it is Washington you are interested in - they have a whole separate process for the fee paying spots - don't be put off by the bureaucratic nature and dull appearance of the preschool office, Washington preschool is really lovely! If you drive by Washington Elementary you can see the preschool/kindergarten outside play area from E. Richmond Avenue. esd
Parent Reviews
Parents, please Sign in to post a review on this page.