Family Preschool

Family Preschool was founded in 1970 by a group of parents who recognized the need for a gentle and play-based preschool where parents and teachers worked alongside one another. They believed that a more integrated school, home, and family-life would lead to a happier, more successful child.

Family Preschool was the first preschool program in North Carolina to receive accreditation from NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children).FPS, along with numerous other half-day preschools, later faced increasing fees and prohibitively burdensome NAEYC requirements, which is when and why DOPA (Durham-Orange Preschool Association) was formed.

Our non-profit, non-sectarian, non-discriminatory environment focuses on supporting both children and parents as they learn and grow. We help preschool-aged children develop socially, emotionally, physically, and intellectually by providing safe, interesting and challenging play with other children of similar ages.

Family Preschool typically follows the traditional Durham Public Schools calendar, including the inclement weather closing policy, however FPS will be making independent decisions this year to be communicated by the director. Children must comply with the immunization schedule of the State of North Carolina.

Family Preschool is committed to offering the best preschool education in Durham. As part of that goal, we hire only the best teachers to be a part of our family. We hire teachers who are experienced, have training in the educational philosophies we embrace, and who are equally committed to our children and their development.

Our school was recently recognized as one of only 100 Durham employers that have been certified as providing a living wage for their employees. The Durham Living Wage Project recognizes businesses that pay their employees at least 70 percent more than the federal and state minimum wage of $7.25 per hour.