Thank you for your interest in our early learning program. We welcome applications year round. Please include the application fee with your application form to be considered for enrollment or to be placed on our waiting list.
When should I apply?
Prospective parents should complete the application process as soon as possible to be placed on our waitlist. Waitlist length varies by classroom, however, can range from 6 to 24 months in length. The majority of enrollment placements take place in the Fall for the September through August school year. However, if space allows, the school also accepts students mid-year.
How do I start the process?
To start the application process, you can access the waitlist application here. To schedule a tour, click here.
When do we find out if our child is admitted?
For class openings, the school makes decisions on a rolling admissions basis (i.e. shortly after the family completes the application process) throughout the school year and summer. If space allows, the school also accepts students mid-year. Please contact the school’s Admissions Director to find out if there’s a space in a particular class. Parents are required to keep the Director informed of any changes in the status of their application or enrollment needs.
Are any applicants given special consideration? Do siblings get preference?
Preferential consideration will be given to enrolling new students based on the following priorities:
- Siblings of currently enrolled students;
- Children of full-time staff;
- Families who live and/or work in Ward 3, and in particular the ANC3E/Chevy Chase, DC, neighborhood.
How is classroom placement determined?
All children are placed in the classroom best suited to their emotional, cognitive, and physical development. Movement into the next classroom will be primarily based on this development and not on age. Since tuition is based on age and not room placement, there is not a financial incentive to promote a child prematurely.
What is the student-teacher ratio?
Our classrooms have two, three or four teacher teams to provide continuity of care and a quality education that allows children the opportunity to develop and explore to their full potential. Our teacher-child ratio is as follows:
Class Age Teacher/Student Ratio
Infants 1:3
Toddlers 1:3
Junior Preschool 1:4
Preschool 1:6
Pre-Kindergarten 1:8
What are the schools operating hours?
The Friendship Children’s Center is open Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The school is closed on predetermined Federal holidays, a one-week winter holiday break, and periodically throughout the year for staff development training, parent-teacher conferences, or other pre-scheduled events.
Full-Time Enrollment
5 days- Monday through Friday
Do you provide snacks and lunch?
Nutritious morning and afternoon snacks are provided for all children eating table food, as well as whole milk for infants and toddlers. Lunch is to be provided from home.
What is your current tuition?
Tuition rates vary by enrollment age and programming. Please access Tuition and Fees for details.
May I tour the campus?
Yes, tours are conducted on a monthly basis. Tours take place from 9:30 am to 10:30 am. Please click to schedule a tour.
