Center, CO

Mountain Valley School Preschool serves the entire San Luis Valley region including Center, offering a comprehensive early childhood education program with Colorado Shines Level 4 rating. The program focuses on school readiness through play-based learning, literacy development, and social-emotional skills. Certified early childhood educators provide individualized attention in small class sizes, with a curriculum aligned with Colorado Early Learning Guidelines. The facility features dedicated preschool classrooms, outdoor play areas, and integrated technology resources. What makes this program stand out is its integration with the public school system, providing seamless transitions to kindergarten and access to school resources including nutrition services and family support programs.

Kids Connection is a highly-rated childcare center serving the San Luis Valley region including Center families, holding a Colorado Shines Level 3 rating. The center offers comprehensive age-appropriate programs from infants through school-age children, featuring a structured curriculum that balances academic preparation with social development. Their educational approach includes Creative Curriculum for early learning, STEM activities, and literacy enrichment. The facility includes secure indoor learning environments, age-specific playgrounds, and nutritional meal programs. What distinguishes Kids Connection is their highly qualified staff with low teacher-to-child ratios, extensive safety protocols including secure entry systems, and strong parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences.

San Luis Valley Head Start provides high-quality early childhood education to families throughout the valley including Center, with a Colorado Shines Level 4 rating. This comprehensive program serves children ages 3-5 with evidence-based curriculum focusing on literacy, math, science, and social skills development. The center employs degreed early childhood educators and provides extensive support services including health screenings, dental care, nutrition programs, and family advocacy. Their educational philosophy emphasizes whole-child development through hands-on learning experiences and individualized learning plans. What makes this program exceptional is its comprehensive family support services, inclusion of children with special needs, and strong community partnerships that provide additional resources to enrolled families.