Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated October 2026

1) What is the school’s philosophy?

We are a values-based preschool guided by an early learning framework called Sheva. Sheva means “seven” in Hebrew, a number that holds significance in Jewish tradition.

The core principles include:

Children as Constructivist Learners
Environments as Inspiration for Inquiry
Families as Engaged Partners
Early Childhood Educators as Professionals

The Jewish lenses include:

B’rit (relationship and belonging)
Tzelem Elohim (capability and potential)
Tikkun Olam (responsibility, repairing the world)

2) What is the curriculum?

We take a social constructivist approach to curriculum where we believe that children learn within the context of their environment. Teachers create interesting and thought-provoking environments where children can explore, experiment and take risks. Within this environment, teachers support a child’s social and emotional development by helping them read social cues, scaffolding play and modeling respect and kindness towards others. Our curriculum integrates Jewish values, traditions, and learning experiences throughout this child-centered approach.

Concepts include:

Image of the child
Environment as the third teacher
Documentation as a tool for reflection
Teacher as partner and co-researcher

3) What are the program hours?

All programs are 5 days a week (Monday–Friday) for all age groups. Part-time schedules are contingent on availability.

9 AM–1 PM
8 AM–4 PM

For the 2026–27 school year, we are offering a year-round option with an extension to 5 PM.

4) What are the teachers’ qualifications?

Teachers at the JCC Preschools have teaching certificates, AAs, BAs, or MAs in early childhood education. We aim to recruit and retain highly qualified teachers by offering a competitive salary, good benefits, and ongoing professional development. Our staff engages in weekly team meetings with the site director, monthly professional development meetings, and a variety of other professional development opportunities throughout the year.

5) My child just misses the cut-off for the next class, or does better with older children. Can you place them in the older class?

We design classes with specific age ranges and support the individual developmental needs of each child within the class. Whether a child is reading, requires additional help entering play, or has a particular focus of interest, teachers work thoughtfully to help each child reach their fullest potential.

6) Does my child need to be potty-trained?

Children develop at their own pace, and toileting is part of the curriculum at all age levels. Teachers work with children to gain independence around toileting and work with parents to let them know when their child exhibits readiness.

7) How does the JCC Preschool handle discipline?

Teachers model appropriate language and facilitate interactions with and between children to support peer relationships. Children practice reading social cues, asking for help, and problem-solving in a safe and supportive environment. We partner with parents to address the needs of each child. By working together, we strive to create a positive and successful school experience.

8) How do you support children with different needs?

Each child is unique, and we encourage families to communicate openly and share information about their child that will help us support them at school. We collaborate with early childhood specialists, including speech pathologists, occupational therapists, psychologists, and other outside professionals who may work with both teachers and families to support the needs of the child.

9) How does the school handle health and safety?

We create a series of protocols that are aligned with Marin County Public Health to ensure that our practices and the environment are as healthy and safe as possible.

10) What does the admissions process look like?

Enrollment opens to the public on January 1st. There is a $150 non-refundable application fee to hold your child’s spot. Then, there is no other financial obligation until we send the contracts in February. Currently enrolled children and their siblings have priority. We will let you know if we are placing you on a waitlist. Families are admitted on a first-come, first-served basis.