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Your Roadmap to Navigating Preschool Admissions Successfully

Choosing the right preschool for your child is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a parent. At the Lycée Français de San Francisco (simply known in the Bay Area as the Lycée), we understand that this process can feel both exciting and overwhelming. Our goal is to provide you with the information and support you need to make the best choice for your family. This guide is designed to help you navigate the admissions journey at the Lycée, offering practical tips and insights tailored to preschool admissions.

 

Understanding the LFSF Preschool Admissions Process

At the Lycée, our preschool program, that we call  "Maternelle," welcomes children as young as 2 years old. Our program is designed to nurture your child's development, foster a love of learning, and provide a smooth transition into the world of bilingual education. Here’s what you can expect from our admissions process:

 

     1. Research and School Visits

• Start Early: Begin your search well in advance, as preschool spots can fill up quickly. We recommend starting the process at least a year before your child is ready to begin preschool.
• Attend an Admissions Event: Look for the Lycée at a Preschool Fair or attend an open house to tour our campuses and learn more about our approach to early childhood education. This is an excellent opportunity to see our facilities and ask any questions you may have. We hold a virtual Open House event twice a week for Early Years and Elementary levels. These sessions offer a deep dive into our school’s philosophy, extracurricular activities, community… and curriculum!
• Explore the Curriculum: Familiarize yourself with our curriculum, which emphasizes bilingual education, play-based learning, and social-emotional development. Understanding our educational philosophy will help you determine if Lycée is the right fit for your child.
• Get in touch with our Admission Team: We’d love to hear from you : whether you fill out our inquiry form on the website, send us an email, schedule a call... Nathalie FERINO and Alain LECLOUX, our experienced Associates, work closely together to provide personalized support and guidance to prospective families throughout the application process. Mireille SAGNE, our Director of Admissions, brings her extensive knowledge and passion for education to ensure a smooth and welcoming experience for all. Together, they are here to help you every step of the way as you explore what makes the Lycée a unique and vibrant learning community.

 

     2. Application Submission

• Online Application: The next step is to complete our online application through our Veracross platform. You’ll need to provide basic information about your child and your family, along with any relevant documents such as a parent questionnaire, school records, proof of date of birth, introduction videos, and recommendation letters.
• Teacher Recommendations: Depending on your child’s age, we may request a recommendation from your child’s current daycare or preschool. This helps us understand your child’s development and readiness for our program.

 

     3. The Family Interview

• Parent Interview: We invite parents to meet with our admissions team to discuss your child’s needs, your educational goals, and how the Lycée can support your family. This conversation is a great opportunity for us to connect, to get to know you better and answer any specific questions you may have. 
• Child Observation: We may arrange a play-based observation session in a small group to assess their readiness for our program. This is a relaxed and informal process where our educators engage with your child in a comfortable setting.

 

     4. Financial Aid and Scholarships

• Financial Support: We understand that private education is a significant investment. The Lycée offers financial aid to qualifying families to make our programs accessible. If you wish to apply for financial aid, please indicate this on your application and make sure to discuss it with our admissions team so that they can best assist you in this process. You can also reach out directly to our financial aid department. Applying for financial aid won’t affect your child’s chances of being admitted. We encourage you to apply early to receive your award at the same time as the admission decision.

 

 

     5. Decision and Enrollment

• The review process: Our admissions committees, composed of admissions and academic directors, take great care in reviewing each application. Your family's commitment to our school's mission carries significant weight in our admission decision.
• Acceptance Letters: After the review process, we will notify you of our admissions decision in March*. If your child is accepted, you’ll receive an offer letter with detailed instructions on how to proceed with enrollment.
  If your child is waitlisted, it is important to know that admissions are on-going until all spots are filled. Therefore, it is important to stay in contact with your admissions associate and confirm your motivation.
• Enrollment Deposit: To secure your child’s place in our preschool program, a deposit is required. This deposit will be applied toward your tuition.

 

     6. Family On-boarding

• Once enrollment is complete, new families are invited to our orientation events, designed to help your child (and you!) feel at home in our community. We’re here to support you every step of the way as your child begins their exciting educational journey with us.

*The acceptance calendar is agreed along with other Bay Area independent schools

 

What to Consider When Choosing the Lycée Preschool

Choosing a preschool is about finding the right environment for your child to grow, learn, and thrive. Here are some key factors to consider as you explore Lycée preschool:

1. Bilingual Education

• Language Immersion: At the Lycée, we immerse children in both French and English from the start. This early exposure to a second language, not only boosts cognitive development but also opens doors to global opportunities in the future.
• Cultural Richness: Our diverse community celebrates both French and American cultures, providing your child with a unique, multicultural experience

 

2. Play-Based Learning

• Hands-On Activities: Our preschool curriculum is designed around play-based learning, where children engage in hands-on activities that stimulate their creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Outdoor Exploration: We believe in the importance of outdoor play. Our campuses feature safe, inviting outdoor spaces where children can explore, play, and connect with nature.

 

3. Social-Emotional Development

• Building Confidence: Our educators focus on nurturing your child’s social-emotional development, helping them build confidence, learn to interact with peers, and develop a strong sense of self.
• Supportive Environment: We create a warm, supportive environment where children feel safe to express themselves and explore their world.

 

The Importance of Community at the Lycée

At the Lycée, we believe that a strong community is essential to your child’s success and happiness. We encourage families to get involved, connect with other parents, and participate in school events. Our active parent community provides support, friendship, and a sense of belonging that extends beyond the classroom.

The journey to finding the right preschool for your child is an important one, and we are here to support you every step of the way. At the Lycée, we are committed to providing a nurturing, enriching environment where your child can begin their educational journey with confidence and joy. We look forward to welcoming your family to our community and helping your child thrive.

For more information about the admissions process or to schedule a visit, please contact our admissions office. Together, let’s embark on this exciting new chapter in your child’s life.

Next Open House : FRI Oct 11, from 10:00 to 11:30 am, ASHBURY campus (755 Ashbury st, in San Francisco).

 

 

 

 

Written with the Lycée Admissions Director,

Mireille SAGNE (Admissions Director)

 

 

Join us for an Open House     Learn more about preschool     Inquire

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