Re: Full-Time Preschools in Oakland
I also looked at Beatie Street preschool, which is very small at 15 students. I have friends whose kids have gone or are going and they speak highly of it. I would have sent my daughter there but they did not have any openings at the time--the downside of being small.

Re: Preschools w/ accredited Kindergarten
Come visit Beatie Street in Oakland off of Park. There are only 15 kids and instruction is differentiated to support both preschoolers and kindergardeners. There are two instructional circle times per day with all kids participating at their developmental level and then there is individualized instruction for kids who have shown reading readiness (most of these are of Kindergarten age). Many students graduate and move into first grade while others, though most can already read, go into kindergarten. The program is both Montessori and play-based, a unique combination that seems to work great for the kids. Beatie Street's director, Judy Kahn is a passionate and committed teacher and is a wonderful person. The school is committed to creating a strong community, having diversity (in all senses of the word), and also offers sliding scale tuition. Full time only and commitment through kindergarten is preferred. Marielle

We feel fortunate to have been let in on this hidden treasure of a preschool and kindergarten by my daughter's kindergarten teacher. Usually no advertisement is required for this school as turnover is extremely low. Due to an unexpected cross-country relocation of one of our families Beatie Street now has one mid-year opening. Beatie Street is a full-time, year-round, non-profit Preschool and Kindergarten in the heart of Oakland tailored to support working families with children age 2.9-6 years. Many children stay though kindergarten. Director Judy Kahn combines play with developmentally appropriate Montessori inspired teaching resulting in solid preparation for elementary school within a fun and socially progressive atmosphere. Tuition is moderate, based on income. Hours are 8:15-5:30 Monday through Friday. The staff and community are culturally diverse. Alternative families welcome. Cantonese, Manderin, and English spoken. No part-time care is offered.
Contact: Director: Judy Kahn, (510) 835-0131