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Preschool Programs

NMCUSD Preschool Programs are offered full and part day with options for ten or twelve months during the year. The programs emphasize kindergarten readiness skills, social and emotional development, physical and creative development in an active participatory learning environment. Children have the opportunity to learn individually and in small and large groups.
The preschool programs are currently rated at the exceeding quality tier, in the “Quality Matters... A Strong Start for kids”  Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS). The purpose of this initiative is to acknowledge and identify high quality early learning preschool programs in California. Programs are assessed based on the following elements: Child Observation, Developmental and Health Screening, Effective Teacher-Child Interactions, Ratios and Group Size, Environment, and Staff Training and Education
Children who are 2 years, 9 months of age are eligible to attend the State Preschool. Enrollment of qualified children is on a first-come, first-served basis. Enrollment in the State Preschool Half-Day Program is based on income. Enrollment in the State Preschool Full-Day and Super-Day programs is based on income and need for child care. All enrollment is conducted at the State Preschool Program Office.

Documentation required for enrollment includes:
  • Proof of Immunizations
  • Recent physical examination results
  • Proof of family income
  • Birth certificates for all children in the family
  • Proof of need for child care (Full and Super Day only)

Quality Matters Recognition

Prunedale staff for early learning with Quality Matter plaque

Congratulations to our NMCUSD early learning programs for excellent ratings from Quality Matters Monterey County.  Being part of Quality Matters signifies a strong commitment to providing high-quality early learning experiences for children.

Quality Matters employs a 5-star rating system to help early educators and parents assess the quality of programs on their journey to excellence. When a program joins Quality Matters, it undergoes an evaluation by an independent, trained, and certified observer who assesses the program based on California’s quality standards. Child care centers are evaluated in six key areas and are awarded a star rating reflecting their commitment to continuous improvement.

The six areas of assessment are: child observation, developmental and health screening, staff training and education, positive teacher-child interactions, teacher-to-child ratios, and director qualifications.

The following sites have achieved remarkable ratings:

  • Central Bay Children's Center: 5/5 - Highest Quality
  • Echo Valley Preschool: 5/5 - Highest Quality
  • Elkhorn Preschool: 5/5 - Highest Quality
  • Prunedale Preschool: 5/5 - Highest Quality
  • Castroville Preschool: 4/5 - Exceeding Quality
  • Castro Plaza Family Resource Center Preschool: 4/5 - Exceeding Quality


To learn more about Quality Matters Monterey County and access other parenting resources click here.

Preschool Site Staff Directory