Arcadia Episcopal Preschool was the best decision we made before TK! When my daughter first started at Arcadia Episcopal Preschool in December, she didn't understand English at all, and I was honestly worried about how she would adjust. But both Ms. Beth and Principal Ms. Marie gently reassured me: "Don't worry, she will catch up soon." And they were absolutely right. At first, she was too shy to speak at school due to the language barrier. But now, she has made so many friends and proudly brings home her artwork to share with us. What surprised me most is how well she's taken care of herself--and even our whole family! She now chats with our neighbors in English like it's no big deal. It's hard to believe this is the same little girl who used to cling to me quietly at drop-off. Her physical strength and coordination have also improved dramatically. Before preschool, she would get tired just from walking and always wanted me to carry her. Now, she runs around joyfully and hikes without a single complaint--her energy is amazing! None of this would have been possible without the love, care, and gentle guidance of the amazing teachers at Arcadia Episcopal Preschool. My entire family feels so grateful to have found such a nurturing and supportive school community. This preschool gave our daughter the strongest and happiest foundation before stepping into TK--and for that, we are truly thankful. Special thanks to Ms. Beth, Ms. Marie, Ms. Kim, and Ms. Anjali--and to all the amazing teachers who have helped our daughter grow with love, patience, and encouragement. Your support has made a lasting difference in her life. We will always remember your kindness and dedication. We feel truly blessed to have been part of this wonderful school community. read more

Arcadia Episcopal Preschool - Child Care & Day Care Near Me - Arcadia, California

If your reading this congratulations you have found Heaven on Earth. Arcadia Episcopal Preschool (AEP) is sincerely the greatest institution for nurturing your beloved little ones. As a parent our greatest desire is to love, nurture and guide my child. At AEP the staff...or Angels, whom go above and beyond the call of duty. In our experience of deciding where to entrust our precious Son factors of security, environment and development were paramount in our choice. I/we have made no greater choice than having enrolled our child here. Each and every staff member is truly an extension of our family. The rapport one builds is a lifetime from the parent-staff, staff-child and child-child is incredible. From our parental experience there is no handbook thorough enough to mentor us. But from Ms. Marie (director), Ms. Kim (assistant director), Ms. Anjali (Turtle class), Ms. Beth (seahorse class), Ms. Vicky (bear class), Ms. Frannie (dolphin class), Ms. Kelly, Ms. Debbie (retired), Ms. Stacy (retired) and Ms. Ivette (food preparer) they bestowed upon us throughout the years their invaluable insight and knowledge. Truthfully as 1st time parents they not only guide our child, but instill in us lessons that aide our adventures of parenting. We genuinely adore them and thank God for having blessed us with their unwaivering love and devotion. If I may elaborate on why AEP is so glorious is through the eyes of a toddler whom confides in us how loved and thrilled he is with his teachers and staff. It feeds our soul on how these Angels so selflessly yearns to mold these energetic bundles of joy. My Son would tell us of the heart felt hugs, the giggles, the conversations he has that makes him smile. As he express how he loves them and never wants to leave this school. Curricular wise is age based and is undoubtedly logically implemented. From encouragement and guidance the teachers fortify their needs through play and training. We often are so excited to see what he has acquired. I have watched my son develop in so many aspects that has layed a foundation I feel which will only propel him for the future. And I cannot express the shear joy we have had seeing him progress from an infant to toddler. From day one AEP has instilled confidence in our little one and us as well. I would enroll myself if I could ;p. As mentioned my son's love of this exemplary school is so great he decided to stay another year. You will experience unbridled joy as we have when your little ones sees their teachers off campus and schoolmates. It has been unequivocally the best decision we have made. I humbly and deeply thank ever Angel of AEP as they have touched our hearts, souls and minds. We are proud to be apart of AEP now and forever. read more

Arcadia Episcopal Preschool is a GEM! This school and it's teachers have supported both of my children from two to their transition to kindergarten. I am forever grateful for the love, care, and support they have provided to not only my children, but my entire family. The staff is invested in your child's development both socially and academically and they do this through developmental play, child led learning, and Christs teachings. The program also has extra activities such as dance classes on Wednesdays (in the fall), chapel, and an extensive summer program that has activities planned every day that the kids go crazy for (eg. Pony day, puppy day, crazy hair day). On top of all these things, the school was able to support my children through Covid and stay open despite all of the hoops that early childhood development centers had to navigate. All while ensuring that my son entered kindergarten being well ahead of his peers. You will not find a better school with such amazing hours, low tuition, and most importantly passionate and genuine individuals to care for your child! Thank you AEP for being a part of my kids story, we will never forget you. read more

Hi this is an update. If you live in the neighborhood and have kids under 6, stop searching! This is the one! Besides being an awesome preschool, offering lots of fun activities like egg hunt in eastern, singing in church, and all those fun projects he proudly brings home, Arcadia Episcopal Preschool is and has been throughout the pandemic, fully compliant with CDC guidelines! The teachers go the extra mile and make sure our child is safe at all times enforcing creatively social distancing and regular handwashing... What peace of mind knowing he is well-taken care of while we can't! We enrolled our son 3 years ago after moving from the bay area and trying first another school that gave up after 3 months. (Our son is quite energetic and creative) Here he has learned to count, write and read and brings wonderful values back home. The love he demonstrates when talking of his teachers speaks volumes of how is treated and respected as an individual. He sometimes gets ready on Sundays to go to school... XD The teachers take their time to tell you about his day at pick-up and make you constantly feel welcome and reachable. The best of all is the daily handwritten notes that recap his day and allow us to build a conversation with him... He really has busy and fun days and wants to tell us all about it! read more

Arcadia Episcopal Preschool - Every day he adds a different artwork made in school... They are really cool! - Child Care & Day Care Near Me - Arcadia, California

We enrolled our 4 yr son here after having a not-so-great experience with another local preschool. He started about a month before they had to temporarily close due to COVID-19. Even in that short time we saw major improvements in our son's behavior. They have since re-opened and our son is so excited to be back at school. They are doing a really great job with following the new guidelines, educating this children on the changes, keeping the children safe and parents informed. We know our son is getting the social/emotional/relational support he needs which is our top priority. Having our son at AEP is one of the best decisions we have made. read more

Both my kids attended this pre-school and were well prepared when they entered kindergarten. All the teachers there are truly wonderful and caring to each child's different needs. It felt like they were our second family. I would definitely recommend this preschool! read more

My daughter went to this preschool for 18 months before she was ready for the TK class in the local elementary. She really enjoyed her stay at AEP. The staff and teachers are friendly and loving, they teach kids to pray and sing Christian songs, showing them to perform good manners and be positive. The price is very reasonable overall, they close at 6 pm which is suitable for most working parents. I would recommend this preschool! read more

AEP is an excellent preschool. I am fortunate to have had my child enroll here through a friend's recommendation. My child enjoys school life every day. The teachers are all very professional and capable of guiding the children's emotional development, as well as their social and communication skills. During the pandemic, the school has adhered to strict policies that prioritize transparency and the protection of children, ensuring their safety and well-being while learning. Recently, my child started kindergarten, and the assessments in various areas, including language, indicate that my child is well-prepared for the next stage of school life. I am grateful to AEP for equipping my child with all the necessary skills, enabling them to face each day with confidence. Thank you to the teachers and the school's team! read more

Staffs and teachers were friendly! I felt safe taking my to school. Loved to get the daily notes back from their class teacher. It specified what they did or learn and if they finished their lunch/snack everyday. Kids learn to sing and do meal prayer. I even met some parents and arranging play date even though my kids are going to Kinder now. Nice people, good environment. One thing to note is that they don't ask kids to write. A lot of drawings and mine actually learned to write letters naturally as they practiced more drawings. Hours fit in my work schedule and reasonable price. I would recommend this preschool! Oh by the way breakfast and lunch provided (double check for the lunch they cut down due to lack of providers but not sure how it's now) read more

TL;DR: 1) They are continuing to care for and teach my preschool/kindergarten age child safely during COVID. 2) I am appreciative and proud of their work over 10 years with my 3 kids. Check it out if you are looking for outstanding preschool and afterschool kindergarten care during and after the pandemic. AEP provides a fun and loving environment for preschool kids. Their director Marie has been there for decades, and maintains a diverse and capable staff. My daughter and 2 sons all have had great interactions and experiences through the years. They have all developed valuable relationships with the teachers and staff there. For the most part they have had all the same teachers since their turnover is minimal. My wife and I chose AEP after shopping several other options, as it seemed to have the most welcoming and nurturing vibes. We owe a debt of gratitude to all the wonderful individuals there who have helped socialize our children and prepare them for elementary school. During my first child's transition into their 2 year old Turtle class, I remember observing how professional they were in dealing with a two year old's behavior and made sure I took mental notes. As a new parent there is much to learn on how to best encourage and guide a preschooler. Even after 10 years and experience with 3 kids, it is still helpful to be reminded of best practices. AEP continues to set the example and strives to offer parental support in various ways. Their school has been a true asset to the children and families in our community. We are privileged to be a part of their efforts to foster individual growth and community interconnection. Prior to COVID, they offered summer programs, optional parent nights, workshops, community events, volunteer opportunities, holiday and graduation celebrations, etc. Marie works to accommodate special needs as reasonable, and adapts as necessary to keep the school properly resourced. Her staff attends inservices for their professional development. I have witnessed her continually maintain and upgrade their supplies, facilities, and policies to keep up to date. She strives to continually meet the evolving needs of the students and families. During COVID, decreased enrollment in all operating private schools has dramatically changed operations. I worry about the dwindling options for quality care and education. Thankfully my child has been able to still benefit from their essential services at AEP as they have pivoted efficiently to restructure their operations. Currently there are only a handful of other children in attendance, but my child is happy to have his masked and distanced interactions and activities with his friends and teachers. We get reports and pictures of school time even though we can no longer go inside the school. All advised public health precautions are being met or exceeded. Even prior to COVID their prior cleaning procedures would have made me feel safe, but of course during COVID everything has escalated. Safety is prioritized. My kid has no problem wearing a mask all day and has stayed healthy. They are continuing to explore other flexible options to provide service as the needs of the families evolve during the pandemic, including offering after school kindergarten care. For those searching for a safe and positive childcare, early education, or fun experience for their child, definitely put AEP at the top of your list to checkout! You can also view other testimonials about their inviting climate on their website under the About Us tab. read more

Highly reccomend! My both children started when they were 2 yrs old. All teachers and staffs are passionate of what they do, they love children. They look after all students well. Things that I really like the most is this facility is clean. Such as kids barthroom, class room, toys (I saw teacher takes out toys to clean/sanitize regurally). They keep the nap blanket and pillow in each individual zip lock bag each time kids are done using it. (I saw some other school just left in the cubbie, some are just felt on the floor and no one pick it up. I saw that at the serendipity preschool). Teachers always take student to potty, never leave any of them alone. They would alway help kids eat luch (hot luch provided), encorage them to try new food. My kids love all the event that school have, the christmas even is my favorite one. Love this school and all staff at AEP. read more

We love Arcadia Episcopal Preschool! Right when preschools were allowed to open with the new COVID-19 guidelines, we started looking for preschools for our youngest. We were impressed by how students had their own "apartments" to keep to social distancing, were taught to regularly wash their hands, and had plenty of outside fun activities. Our youngest came home everyday so happy telling us about her teachers and friends. She always brought home work she did that day and proudly show it to her older siblings. We were happy and sad she graduated. Now that she's in Kinder, she still talks about her teachers and friends at Arcadia Episcopal Preschool. She really blossomed in the time she was there. read more

I highly recommend Arcadia Episcopal Preschool (AEP). My 10 year old son attended AEP and when my daughter was ready for pre-school we did not hesitate to enroll her in AEP. They have a great foundation that they have been practicing for many years. What I like most about AEP is their focus on social-emotional development of the children and the age-appropriate curriculum. They focus on social goals such as following rules, routines, and manners. Kids learn to express themselves verbally, resolve conflict, turn-taking, sharing, and other important social skills and all in a very positive environment. Ms. Marie, the Director of AEP, loves her job. She runs the school and also helps the teachers with the kids on all levels throughout the day. The teachers are so loving and patient and they all know the name of every child in the school. The school is clean and provides everything kids need to keep them physically active and interested in learning. Even though it's a small school, it offers two big playgrounds with outdoor painting, climbing structures and even a bike path to ride the many tricycles the school has for the kids. Hot and healthy lunches are included in the tuition and the year-round program is great for working parents. My daughter 4 1/2, is showing a lot of interest in her numbers and letters. She likes to write her name and the names of her friends in class. My son 10, was well-prepared for kindergarten and has been in the top of his class every year. My daughter will be starting T-K shortly and I am sure she will have a smooth transition due to the social skills she has learned at AEP. I would highly recommend AEP to any parent who wants their child to thrive in a loving, positive, and stimulating school like AEP. read more

My little one began attending when she was 2. Prior to deciding on AEP, I toured at least 8 schools at Chino Hills, Diamond Bar, San Dimas, Walnut, Pasadena and South Pasadena. Yes I am obsessive. My kid initially was going to a different school, she was asked to leave within a week because she was a persistent cryer. SHOCKER....Not here to judge any other school but This school has a warm and gentle approach to easing nervous and freightened toddlers and phase them in slowly and almost discreetly. I'm really grateful for all the staff in this school. Other than that, a lot of parents often pass on this school quickly without taking a hard hard look at the people. I'm a firm believer that teacher and peers influence students way more than the how large the yard is, how high tech the equipments are, and how new books are. The accessories are great but still have to carried out committed teachers directed by strong leader. Ms. Marie runs a tight ship, small but agile and focused. Several schools I toured, I've noticed when the children are playing, the teachers would be on their phone and chatting with other teachers. I have even caught staff sharing donut with peanuts when school promised it's nut free zone. NOT GOOD!! This school is compact but more than sufficient for any toddlers. Ms. Marie is wise and effective in finding and placing the teachers with the most fitting personality and philosophy based on the age of the child. One shouldn't overlook soul of his school: its PEOPLE. I notice there are some negative reviews on the school, it puzzles me why would one leave such ungrounded defamation. People forget that this school is a NON PROFIT. If the folks really want to make $$$, this is not the best profession. Those SAT and art Prep school is way more profitable. That's why there are 100s of them cluster in Arcadia and Diamond Bar targeting certain demographics. If one was to critically do the math, the tuition barely covers for a teaching salary and all the operating costs. And about Verizon Tower, I take a very opposite stance. At this age, we all benefit from the cell tower, such NIMBY attitude is selfish. There's absolutely no credible scientific prove. Do those opposers wonder the church would permit it and harm its own congregation? Fear comes from not knowing. Think again on the intent of these writers. read more

This is a little preschool with excellent teachers & staff members that are caring and loving. Kids with diapers are also accepted. My son was potty trained within 1 week! I have visited many preschool around the area before I selected this one. From my observation, I truly see that the kids are immersed in a caring & positive environment. Kids learned to express verbally/effectively/positively, resolve conflict, turn-taking, sharing, and other important social skills. read more

These teachers truly care and it shows. Effort, thought, and detail go into the curriculum and activities. This stage in a child's life is so important and this school is trustworthy and genuine. The staff have tough jobs and still put their heart and soul into each child they care for. Wonderful group of people who have children's well-being above all else. read more

I've visited a few preschools in the area before making the decision of sending my 2 and half year old son to AEP. He will be in Kindergarten this August. For the past 3 years, he's been enjoying to go to school everyday. Highly recommend. I believe they start taking children at age 2. Without fancy facilities and relatively a small school, the teachers/staffs here are the most loving, caring and patient people I've met. AEP provides an initmate and family atmosphere so the children can feel very comfortable and secure. The teacher/student ratio here is excellent . This is not so called a academic focused school. But my son has learned everything including physical skills, social-emotional skills, cognitive skills and etc. He's also built strong confidence and positive attitude from all the creative teachings and group activities at AEP. Each class has a cute classroom, there is a shady patio so they can paint and play there. There are two outdoor playgrounds, plenty of spaces for them to explore outdoor activities and interact with other ages of kids. I also love the location/neighborhood of the school. No major road or traffic when dropping off and picking up your kid(s). Instead there is a nice big tree, grassy areas for picnicking with ample parking spaces. This is my son's last month at AEP. I know both him and I will be missing the school and all the great teachers here a lot! Thank you AEP for everything! read more

Outstanding School!! My son started when he was 2 and he enjoys going to school ever since~ AEP is a wonderful place to get your children learning and interacting with other kids. The school gave all the kids a sense of confidence and growth about themselves as learners. The individual focus they got from AEP's teachers combined with the unique student/peer culture and access to so many different kinds of learning experiences gave my child a solid foundation academically and socially. The school condition is great; classrooms, toys and teaching materials are very neat and clean. The staff are very patient, caring, friendly and loving to all the students. I would absolutely recommend this great preschool to my friends. read more

Arcadia Episcopal Preschool is a hidden gem and was a lifesaver for us throughout COVID. The small class sizes, play-based curriculum, and amazing teachers and staff made this an ideal place for our two kids. They have great COVID protocols in place and we felt very safe sending our children there for the past year. They're diligent about mask-wearing and sanitizing and really helped our kids understand why those procedures are so important. The director, Ms. Marie, is absolutely fantastic; our kids still talk about her every day and wish they could go back to preschool to be with her!  The school's approach is holistic and developmentally appropriate, and the staff is kind and communicative. They send home notes every day with detailed descriptions of the children's activities. They worked patiently with us on any behavioral issues. The small size really gives AEP a family feel and helped the kids feel right at home. The tuition is very reasonable! Our kids had Ms. Beth and adored her. During our parent-teacher conferences, we were impressed by how well she knew and understood our kids' strengths, abilities, challenges, and interests. She was able to adjust the curriculum and activities to fit them individually, which was much appreciated! Although socializing looked different due to COVID and each child had their own space in the classroom, our kids felt very connected to their classmates. AEP provided a safe, supportive, enjoyable place for our kids. We were confident that they were learning, socializing, and being well cared for-- and that is a tremendous gift, especially during COVID! Highly recommend! read more

I have lived near this preschool for a very long time. I even sent one of my kids there. However, I would no longer recommend any parent to send their child to this preschool if this cell tower is going to be built there. Despite whatever lack of evidence may be argued regarding radiation, should any really take the risk of sending their young children to a preschool with a cell tower directly next to it. Even if there was a 0.001% chance of radiation exposure, who would put their child in such a situation?? I just don't see the benefit of allowing such a proposal to go through or why the preschool would willingly support it. That is all there is to it. Heaven forbid the cell tower falls over. A couple years ago, an incredibly massive tree in the very same lot was blown over by the wind. Luckily no one was injured. Why would the school risk that again?? read more

I like the school, the staff, and highly recommend this school to others. However I must say I'm very concerned about the cell phone tower that the church is planning to construct on school parking lot. It would be almost 80 ft tall, right where kids go in/out. I'm very concerned. I believe the school doesn't have a say because they're leasing the space from the church. But according to what I heard, when another parent went to talk to the Rector of the church, she disregarded the school's safety and said they are just leasing the space. I feel sorry for the school's kids and staff if this tower would be built. My kid won't be there forever but other kids and the staff would be around for a while. read more

I love this preschool. Before I moved to the area, I visited many schools and AEP was the last one I saw. While many of the other schools tried to sell their programs with theory, academic preparation, or brand new facility, they still could not hide the business model behind the words. AEP was the last school I visited (in a 2-3 month period) and as soon as I stepped in the school, I knew it was the place I wanted my children to be. The school is clean and one of the first things that impressed me is that even though it's a small and intimate school, it offers two big playgrounds, one with a bike path. One priority I have is that my children would spend enough time outdoors. I decided to enroll my children in AEP right after my visit. Now, it's been almost a year that my daughter has been there, and I just couldn't be happier. My daughter is happy to go to school to a group of veteran teachers who run the school with their hearts. The teachers are so loving and patient, and they all know the name of every child in the school. Even though my daughter is in the 2-3 y.o. (Starfish) class, she has plenty of time to interact with bigger and smaller kids when they are in the playground. In addition to this,children spend a lot of time learning by singing and doing art projects, which I think is so essential at this age. Specifically in my daughter's class, Ms. Frannie is wonderful at teaching children to express verbally and develop appropriate social skills. My daughter has become so much more independent as a result of this. Sometimes children can be picky eaters, but Ms. Frannie will always encourage them to try new food. My daughter loves Ms. Frannie, and as a parent, I truly appreciate what she and all the other teachers do. My son will turn 2 soon and I know I'll be sending him there too. AEP's Turtle class for the youngest ones allows children who haven't been potty trained yet. The director Ms. Marie has a lot of charisma and is always trying to think of new programs for the school. She also cares about providing healthy foods for the children. On special occasions, the school organizes special events such as Mommy and Me/Daddy and Me Night/Thanksgiving/Christmas activities, which parents are always invited to attend. Finally, they also have a garden which parents and children can help plant and take care. My daughter and I planted kale, and we often water it together when we are at school. What else could a parents ask for? :) My daughter has learned so much in the past year. I would highly recommend any parent who wants their child to thrive in a loving, positive, and stimulating school to check out AEP. I know you will not be disappointed!!!! read more

My son has been going to Arcadia Episcopal School for nearly 3 years. Over the years, he has learned how to socially interact with other kids, how to use his manners, how to express his emotions and demonstrate empathy. Most importantly, this school has taught him how to build confidence and as a result he has become a role model to new incoming kids. He now has a good foundation when he moves into kindergarten this coming fall. I'm forever grateful for all that he had learned at Arcadia Episcopal School! read more

AEP has wonderful, *loving* teachers whom you can trust to care for and teach your children. I have had two children attend AEP all the way from 2 yrs old to the summer before kindergarten. My third child is currently attending AEP in the Butterfly class (2-2.5 yr olds). Because of the small size of the school (less than 50 students total), it has a nice, small, close-knit community feeling. Every teacher knows every child and parent by name. In the Dolphin class (pre-kindergarten, 4-5 yr olds), they work on pre-reading skills (alphabet), writing (only if the particular child shows interest), counting skills, days of the week, months of the year, basic science and art, etc. During the regular school year, each week is dedicated to a particular letter -- so the kids learn the alphabet, but it's integrated into the theme for the entire week. During the summer, every day has a special theme and the children participate in the theme school-wide (from all of the different age groups), with special days like a visit from the reptile/bug lady, puppy petting day, bouncer day, petting zoo day, and more. But the most important thing that both of my older children took away from AEP was good socialization and a basic sense of right-and-wrong (golden rule style). Both were well-prepared for kindergarten, receiving behavior and effort awards from their kindergarten teachers. This is in large part because the teachers at AEP don't stress learning particular facts or academic material, but instead foster an innate love of learning in the children and teach the children the skills and behavior that will permit them to continue to learn in other environments well beyond the preschool. read more

My daughter has been at AEP for almost a year. This has been a wonderful experience for my daughter. She has learned so many things. The teachers really focus on having the children learn how to express themselves, resolve conflict as well as socialization. The teachers and staff are all very caring, nurturing and loving. I'm so glad I found AEP. My only regret is that I didn't know about AEP for my older children. read more

My son had a wonderful experience at AEP. If you are looking for a safe, loving and nurturing environment, this is definitely the optimal place for your child. All the teachers and staff are very caring and patient. Thanks to the school, my son learned how to verbalize his needs and interact positively with his peers. read more

My daughter has attended AEP from the time she was 3.5 until she started Kindergarten. AEP is a delightful, nurturing, caring and loving environment that focuses on the whole child. My daughter, who is by nature a bit shy, thrived in the environment, she learned so much and flourished both academically and socially. She learned through their wonderful hands on approach (they have a garden, they raised butterflies, cooked). When I dropped her off I knew she was in good hands. The school provides healthy snacks and lunches. The school also had two wonderful outside play areas. All the teachers are well qualified and they really love what they do and it shows in their classrooms and in their interaction with the students and parents. The school and teachers communicate often with the parents through their monthly newsletters and teacher/parent meetings. The school also puts on events that student and parents can participate in such as their Christmas show, Thanksgiving lunch, Halloween parade, 4th of July Picnic, mommy and me night, daddy and me night and movie night. I would recommend this school to anyone who wants a well-rounded environment for their children. read more