Pre-Kindergarten Program
Our Pre-K program is the final preschool year before our Kindergarten program — a rigorous, joyful year that equips children with the academic skills, social confidence, and love of learning they need to walk into kindergarten ready for anything.
Placement is based on your child's age as of September 30 and on individual readiness. Some children stay in a class for an additional term, and we discuss placement with every family.
The Program
Kindergarten-Ready. Curie-Proud.
Curie's Pre-K program is designed for 4- and 5-year-olds who are ready to take their learning to the next level. Our credentialed lead teachers deliver a structured, Virginia-aligned curriculum through project-based learning, collaborative inquiry, and hands-on STEAM++ experiences that make every concept stick.
Many children leave our Pre-K program reading independently, writing with purpose, and counting and computing with confidence, and — most importantly — loving school.
Ratios
Virginia licensing standards
4 – 5 yrs
Age range
VA-aligned
Kindergarten readiness standards
STEAM++
Project-based curriculum
What Children Achieve
By the end of Pre-K, Curie graduates consistently demonstrate:
Reading Readiness
Phonemic awareness, letter-sound correspondence, sight words, and early decoding skills that set the stage for independent reading.
Writing & Communication
Children write their name, simple sentences, and short stories — and communicate ideas clearly in group discussions and presentations.
Math Foundations
Counting to 100, addition and subtraction concepts, shapes, measurement, and pattern recognition through hands-on math centers.
Scientific Thinking
Children design and conduct simple experiments, record observations, and draw conclusions — real scientific process at age 5.
Social & Emotional Mastery
Self-regulation, conflict resolution, empathy, and the ability to work collaboratively — skills that predict lifelong success.
Executive Function
Focus, task persistence, following multi-step directions, and managing transitions independently — the hidden keys to kindergarten success.
The Pre-K Curriculum
Six subject areas, taught by credentialed teachers, woven into a joyful, project-rich day.
Literacy & Language Arts
Structured phonics, read-alouds, shared writing, journaling, and rich vocabulary instruction every single day.
Mathematics
Hands-on number sense, operations, geometry, and data — aligned to Virginia Kindergarten readiness benchmarks.
Science & Engineering
Full STEAM++ projects: design challenges, experiments, nature study, and technology integration woven into every unit.
Social Studies & Community
Maps, community helpers, cultural celebrations, and civics concepts build a sense of place and belonging.
Music, Art & Movement
Weekly specialist classes in music and visual art, plus daily movement breaks that support cognitive development.
Social-Emotional Learning
Dedicated SEL curriculum using the Zones of Regulation framework — building self-awareness and relationship skills.
Daily Rhythm
A Day in Pre-K
A structured, energizing day that mirrors the rhythm of kindergarten — so the transition feels natural.
"Madame Curie School has been an exceptional choice for our preschooler. The dedicated teachers and staff have played a pivotal role in nurturing his academic and overall progress. Their personalized approach to education has fostered little one's curiosity, creativity, and love for learning. The school's stimulating environment, coupled with innovative teaching methods, has helped him thrive both academically and socially. We are truly grateful for the enriching experience Madame Curie School has provided for our child. Thank you for shaping the bright future of our little one!"
Asish R.
Herndon Campus
Tuition & Scheduling
Flexible options to fit your family — with the full Curie experience in every schedule.
Half Day
A focused morning of Pre-K learning — ideal for families supplementing with afternoon care.
EnrollFull Day
The complete Pre-K experience — our most popular option for working families.
EnrollSee our Admissions page for current tuition and fees, or contact us with any questions.
Common Questions
Set Your Child Up for a Lifetime of Learning
Tour our Pre-K classrooms and see the Curie difference in action. Spots fill quickly — reserve yours today.