While researching preschools in the area, we found equal amounts of both positive and negative experiences at different schools (via enrolled families, both online and verbally), so we went with this school after a positive experience meeting the director, touring the facilities, and taking into account the results of our research. We have had our children enrolled for both the school year and summer school for the past 2.5 - 3 years. We feel it has been a good fit for our children, as we desired a relaxed, fun learning atmosphere and not an overly structured environment that impeded their creativity.
The facilities are more than adequate, including the playground, restroom facilities, and large cafeteria. we have been very satisfied with the cleanliness and safety measures implemented throughout the school. Another plus is the location of the school building, tucked away from the main roads of 360 and Bee Caves, where it is quiet and surrounded with large areas of trees and grass.
The director is very good with the children and has always been open to communicating with us with both positive comments and constructive criticism - both of which were delivered professionally. What I have witnessed are a few parents who expect all of the work to come from her end only, without extending a partnership attitude that would facilitate open communication. Those parents leave immediately, to search for another school where their consistent interaction is not required, while those who remain work with the teachers and director to ensure two-way communication is successful. Strangely, a few others who seem unhappy have chosen to remain, while unsuccessfully attempting to speak badly about a particular teacher and/or the director to other parents who disagree with their negative outlook. Perhaps these particular parents might not be happy at any preschool, as their negativity seems to extend in all directions.
We placed our children on many waitlists upon our initial search and when we were accepted at other desired school in the first year after arriving at SJN, we decided to stay. We are satisfied with our children being happy and excited to go to this school, so it was an easy decision to remain at SJN. Yes, we had brief moments of minimal disagreement and miscommunication with both teachers and the directors, but we understand that preschool interactions are not flawless and always a work in progress. To expect anything less is unrealistic and not productive as role models to young children. We have friends from work and other social organizations who have children enrolled at several other preschools in Westlake and after comparing notes, we all have had similar experiences at our different preschools - both positive and negative. Overall, it is a matter of understanding what is best for your particular children and what you want for them in a preschool.
I am glad we stayed with SJN and didn't attempt to join the pursuit of the "hottest" preschool in the area during any particular moment these past ~ 3 years. Our oldest has already expressed how sad it is that Kindergarten is not part of the program. That sentiment is all we need to know we made the right choice with SJN.
Research all of the option open to you, interview the director, tour the facilities, decide if the location is suitable for your needs, and then make the best decision based on the needs of your particular child/children. By the way, we do not have the "easy" type of children, where they would be happy and excel at any preschool, nor are they chronically problematic children. Again, each family has different needs, decide which preschool best fits your expectations and good luck! read more
