FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

*Where can I find more information about virtual classes?

We have a recorded Q&A session available with more details about our virtual curriculum as well as answers to some of the common questions.

How do I apply to Laurelwood Preschool?

All registration is done online, on a lottery system based on electronic receipt, so it is important to apply and pay the $85 registration fee and May tuition.  Click here for Registration.

 

What happens after my child is accepted? 

Acceptance letters and the Acceptance Forms Checklist are delivered to families in July.  Your child’s placement at Laurelwood Preschool is secured by the completion and submission of the Admissions Forms and the payment of the $40 cleaning deposit and April tuition.

 

What does tuition include? 

Tuition and registration cover all usual salary, tax and property-related expenses as well as your field trips, insurance fee, and classroom supplies.

 

What are the registration fee and cleaning deposit?

The registration fee is $85 per family per year and is non-refundable.

The cleaning deposit is $40 and is refunded after you participate in the May cleaning day.

 

If my plans change during the spring or summer can I get a refund?

The $85 registration fee is non-refundable.

The April & May tuition is refundable if you withdraw by August 1st.

 

Why is April & May tuition collected so early? 

If a child withdraws in the final four months of school, we do not fill their spots in class.  As a non-profit school, we still need to pay rent, salaries, insurance and taxes.  Collecting these last two months early decreases the amount of tuition we would otherwise lose when families leave.  If you stay the whole school year, you will already have your last two months paid.

 

I am planning to stay for the whole school year, but what if an unexpected move is required?  What do I need to do?

Laurelwood Preschool needs four weeks notice for any withdrawal.  You are required to complete your working days and pay tuition for four weeks from your date of notice.  There are no tuition refunds.  The April & May tuition cannot be used for your last month’s tuition.  If you withdraw early, the April & May tuition is forfeited.

 

Is there a fundraising requirement?

All families are required to contribute to and participate in our Annual Bake Sale held at Laurelwood Elementary during their Spring Open House.  Other fundraisers may be held during the school year and we appreciate your support, but they are optional.

 

How often will I get to work in the classroom?

EC Parents work about 16 days over the course of the year – about once every 5th class day. *However, for school year 2020-2021 the number of workdays are TBD.

PK Parents work about 18 days over the course of the year – about once every other week. *However, for school year 2020-2021 the number of workdays are TBD.

5 Day PK Parents work about 34 days over the course of the year – about once every 5th class day. *However, for school year 2020-2021 the number of workdays are TBD.

 

Can I bring my other children to my workday? 

No.  Only children registered at Laurelwood Preschool may be in the classroom during classes.  Siblings are also not allowed on field trips.

 

What do I do if I can’t work on my workday?

If you are scheduled to be a working parent and can’t work, for any reason, you will need to arrange a trade with another parent. All workdays must be covered, no exceptions.

 

Is there an opportunity to observe the classes in session?

Yes.  Please visit our Contact Us page to arrange on observation.  Click here to Contact Us.

 

Who is the best teacher?

All our teachers are loving, highly qualified, and have a great deal of experience.  We encourage you to schedule an observation and visit the teacher’s pages to read their bios.

 

Are you part of Laurelwood Elementary School?

No.  Laurelwood Preschool is a private, non-profit, non-sectarian organization and we are not part of the Santa Clara Unified School District.  We do match our holidays to the Santa Clara Unified School District’s calendar and use the elementary school’s restrooms and playground.

 

How is the work schedule determined?  When will I know when I work?

The Business Manager creates a monthly work schedule which is distributed to the parents about couple weeks before the next schedule begins, so that parents can plan accordingly.

 

What is the adult/student ratio?

EC, one teacher, 15 students, and 3 parents per class.

Pre-K, one teacher, 18 students, and 3 parents per class.

5-Day PK, one teacher, 15-18 students, and 2-3 parents per class.

 

Are snacks provided?

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, parents took turns providing healthy snacks for the children in class.  A snack parent was assigned as part of the work schedule.  For the 2021-2022 school year, parents will provide a healthy snack for their own child(ren).

Who do I contact if I have more questions?

Please visit our Contact Us page and we will get back to you as soon as possible.  Click here to Contact Us.