Our Philosophy

Current educational research with children indicates the importance of the early childhood years - those before school admission. These years lay the foundation for all later development. This research also emphasizes the role the environment plays in the development of the whole child during the early years. The cognitively oriented curriculum is based on the Jean Piaget theory that a child learns in definite stages and each stage builds on the previous level. A central idea of cognitive learning is that a child learns by doing - "hands on" involvement with his/her environment. In an environment structured to incorporate play and work, we encourage each child to explore and learn from a wide variety of materials.

We recognize parents as the primary teachers and models in a child's life. We believe that a good preschool supports and extends the home program. Through monthly newsletters, parent-teacher conferences, progress reports, and daily informational communications we keep the parent informed about our activities and the child's progress.

Non Profit Status

In January of 2002, Fairfield Child Development Center was incorporated as a not-for-profit organization. This means that we do not make a profit and there are virtually no "owners." The school as an organization owns itself. It is operated by a governing board, which meets monthly. The preschool program here had been at another location for eighteen years and when the decision to move was made we had to choose between organizing as a "for-profit" or a "not-for-profit" corporation. The staff and organizers chose to be "not-for-profit" in order to keep the focus on the children and not the bottom line.

In the spring of 2002, parents, friends of the preschool and professionals spent many, many hours renovating this building to make it a safe and appropriate space for your children! In February of 2002, 149 children were enrolled at the Fairfield library - without a classroom or school building to visit. They registered because they had faith in our staff and determination to see this school happen.

FCDC was leasing the building with an option to purchase within the first four years for $275,000. Our dream was to purchase but how? The answer came when the building was appraised at $450,000 after the renovation was complete! This provided the needed down payment. As of October 2005, FCDC, Inc. owns the preschool building at 140 Donald Drive and the mortgage payments are the same as the lease payments would have been! However, we now have full responsibility for the upkeep of this building.

Throughout this process, the wonderful parents of so many children have been active in raising funds, organizing, planning, and hands-on help in making this wonderful school happen! Whenever we ask why so much has been accomplished, we answer because of the children. Fairfield Child Development Center came to be so that the children could have an excellent preschool experience in a safe and appropriate environment. Therefore, from time to time there will be parent-organized fund-raiser events. It is your choice whether or not to participate in any of these events.

Parent Testimonials

“We can’t say enough positive things about FCDC. Both of our kids went through the school and attended the Kindergarten Readiness Program, which prepared them extremely well for the next step of school. Their Kindergarten teachers told me they always knew which kids were FCDC graduates! We loved the care from all the staff, the great field trips, and the class parties are memories we always treasure. I credit FCDC for making my kids excited about school and giving them a love of learning!”

The Metzler Family

“FCDC has become a second family to us. The encouragement, patience and care they have shown our sons during their first years of school has had such a positive impact on their love for learning! We are forever grateful for this school and it’s staff!”

The Staton Family