Preschool


Child Development Services (CDS) provides early childhood education for children who are 3 to 5 years old on or before November 1st. CDS is guided by the philosophy that all preschool children should have access to quality early education, care and supervision.

Children are introduced to traditional preschool activities in an environment that stresses the importance of play as the child’s primary form of learning. All programs utilize the research-based curriculum “High Scope” which engages preschool children in active learning and problem solving. The classrooms are located at various school sites throughout the district.

CDS offers Los Angeles Universal Preschool (LAUP), California State Preschool (CSPP), Head Start and full fee based programs. Class sizes range from 16 to 24. To begin enrollment, all parents must complete a pre-enrollment application. Applications are not school site specific. Site requests will be considered but cannot be guaranteed. Placement is based on availability.

What is offered?
Note: All programs are 5 days per week, Monday through Friday
  • Daily: 3-hour program, 3 1/2-hour program, 6 1/2-hour program or 10 1/2-hour program
  • Adult-Child Ratio 1:8
  • Breakfast, Lunch or Snack (depending on the program)
  • Developmental Assessments

Which program will match my needs?
There are several state and federal guidelines that help determine placement. Start by selecting the age of your child.

NOTES: Enrollment is ongoing as space becomes available.
Santa Monica residency is NOT a requirement for preschool.

Child Development Services Handbooks
http://www.smmusd.org/CDS/handbooks.html

Child Development Services . 2802 Fourth Street . Santa Monica 90405 . 310-399-5865