Whales

Age 4 year-olds

🐋 Preparing for the Voyage Ahead

The Whales Class is designed for four-year-olds ready to embark on their final preschool adventure before kindergarten. This class emphasizes kindergarten readiness through a curriculum that integrates academic learning with social and emotional development.

In the Whales Class, children:

  • Advance literacy skills through letter recognition, phonemic awareness, and early writing activities
  • Develop mathematical thinking with concepts like counting, patterns, and basic addition
  • Enhance problem-solving abilities through science experiments and critical thinking tasks
  • Strengthen social skills by collaborating with peers and participating in group projects

Our comprehensive approach ensures that each child is equipped with the skills and confidence needed for a successful transition to kindergarten.

Meet Your Teacher!

Shaunna Pearson

Teacher

Voluntary Prekindergarten Certified; Child Development Associate

25 years experience working with children

17 years at our preschool

Katie Eliopulos

Assistant Teacher

Associate of Arts Degree

13 years experience working with children

12 years working at our preschool

Tuition

4 Days | VPK

$
0
/wk
Monday – Thursday
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5 Days

$
400
/wk
Monday – Friday
Apply Today

5 Days | VPK

$
150
/wk
Monday – Friday | VPKer + Fridays
Apply Today

FAQs

Here are some common questions asked about our classes. Still have questions? Don't hesitate to contact us.

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Are there any other considerations when it comes to placing children in classes besides age?

Yes. While age cutoffs (as of September 1) guide class placement, we also consider developmental readiness, potty training status, social-emotional needs, and class dynamics. We work closely with families to ensure each child is placed where they’ll thrive.

What’s the difference between Preschool and VPK?

Preschool at The Preschool in San Marco refers to all of our programs for children ages 1 through 4 that are not part of the state-funded VPK (Voluntary Prekindergarten) program.

VPK is specifically for 4-year-olds and is supported by the state of Florida with a voucher that covers 4 days of instruction per week. Our Whales class includes both a VPK-only option and a 5-day extended option for an additional fee. VPK students must follow a separate attendance policy and submit a Certificate of Eligibility.

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What happens if my child misses too many days?

VPK has a strict attendance policy. Parents are responsible for tuition if they do not meet the required attendance.

Do VPK families have to pay registration or activity fees?

No. 4-day VPK students are exempt from both the $125 registration fee and the $125 activity fee.

What events does the preschool offer throughout the year?

Our calendar includes Trunk or Treat, Thanksgiving Feast, Christmas Program, Easter Parade, Mother’s/Father’s Day events, Graduation, and more.

Learn More about our Calendar

Is there a sibling discount?

Yes. The registration fee is $75 for each sibling (normally $125). However, the activity fee is not discounted.

What are the hours for school and care?

  • Core hours: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
  • Early Morning Care (optional): 8:00 – 8:50 AM
  • Extended Day (optional): 1:05 – 2:30 PM
  • Is August a full month’s tuition?

    No, August is prorated. Full tuition is charged September through May.

    When is tuition due?

    Tuition is due on the 1st of each month. It is late after the 5th, with a $25 fee, which increases by $10 per

    Important Information

    • Tuition is based on the number of days your child is enrolled per week, and is not adjusted for school holidays, closures, or absences.
    • Tuition is due on the 1st of each month. Payments received after the 5th will incur a $25 late fee.
      • Beginning on the 10th, this fee increases by $10 per day until the balance is paid in full.
      • Failure to make timely payments may result in withdrawal from the program.
    • August tuition is prorated and will be invoiced accordingly. Full tuition is required each month from September through May.
    • A separate registration process is required for any Summer Camps that may be offered.

    Due prior to August Orientation

    • Non-refundable Activity Fee of $125 per child.  No discount for siblings.  This is due with August tuition.  4 days VPKers do not pay the activity fee.
    • August’s tuition is half of what is paid every other month.  
    • Orientation paperwork that will be emailed to you at the beginning of August, must be filled out completely and returned to Preschool Director.
    • A CURRENT copy of your child’s Statement of Health and Immunization Record (provided by your pediatrician) MUST be kept current throughout the school year.

    VPK Families

    • Students enrolled in our Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) program must:
      • Submit a Certificate of Eligibility from the state of Florida. This is not due at the time of enrollment but must be received before the end of the current school year.
      • Adhere to a state-mandated attendance policy. Failure to meet this requirement will result in families being responsible for tuition during periods of non-compliance.