Is Ashland Community Preschool affiliated with a religion?
Ashland Community Preschool is not affiliated with any religion. Ashland Community Preschool admits students of any race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin in administration of the educational policies, admissions policies, and other school administered programs.
Is transportation available?
No. Transportation to and from school and field trips is the responsibility of the parent.
How many people does ACP employ?
One. Only our directress is a paid employee of Ashland Community Preschool. As a cooperative preschool, every task related to the administration and day-to-day operation of the school is performed by volunteer basis.
Is ACP a licensed child care provider?
Yes. Ashland Community Preschool is licensed by the Commonwealth of Virginia Department of Social Services as a child day center for ages 2 years 9 months through 6 years 11 months. Our license number is CDC 894744.
Who provides snacks and lunches?
Ashland Community Preschool provides a healthy snack and water for the children every day. Families are responsible for sending a nutritious lunch with their child.
How much time do children spend outside during the school day?
We spend time outdoors everyday, rain or shine, as long as the temperature is above freezing. Students have access to a play kitchen, a music station, and a sand table. Depending on the day’s learning invitations, they might also spend time gardening, working the grounds, bird watching, scavenger hunts, and other special outdoor projects. When the weather is pleasant, we’ll also have lunch at the picnic tables outside. During recess, everyone is free to play on the playground equipment and swings, or simply run and play with friends. We’re always adding to our outdoor space to keep our little ones interested in experiencing all the wonder nature has to offer.
Will my child go on field trips?
Yes! We will go on several field trips throughout the year. Some of our families’ favorite past field trips have been the pumpkin patch at Hanover Vegetable Farm, Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens, the Richmond Symphony, Dragonfly Farms, the Science Museum of Virginia, and Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. In addition to offsite field trips, we may also have in-house field trips or guest speakers. Past favorites have been local firefighters, the Singing Conductor, a veterinarian, and a dad with a 3-D printer. Our classes will also walk to the library for a special program each month.
Are there any special events for families?
We hold a variety of special events during the school year. Over the summer, we often schedule simple monthly play dates for families to come together and enjoy each other’s company. After the start of school in the fall, we hold a special “fun day” picnic for our current families. In October, we have a Halloween parade where students wear costumes and walk down Center Street. In November, we host a Thanksgiving Feast potluck where the children perform and then share a meal with classmates and their families. In the spring, our families love to invite friends and relatives to our Art Gallery fundraiser, where children exhibit special works of art that can be purchased. On the last day of school, all ACP students participate in a special evening graduation ceremony to celebrate the end of the school year.
How do I enroll my child?
Visit our online portal and submit an application. You will need to submit a $55 non-refundable activity fee in order for your child to be considered for enrollment. After your application is processed, you will receive an email that will allow you to access the full portal and complete your enrollment.
May I take a tour?
We highly recommend it! Complete our booking form and our Enrollment officer will be in touch to set up a tour of the classroom and answer all of your questions.