First UMC Preschool school started as a service to the children of church members. It soon expanded into a professional preschool for the community and over the years has gained a reputation as one of the finest in the city.
Accepts children beginning at 2 years old through 6 years old.
NAEYC Accredited Under the guidance of qualified teachers and a full-time directors, the school provides a social emotional and play based focus that supports the child's growth and development physically, socially, emotionally, and academically.
Experiences in science, art, nature, music, and dramatic play are incorporated throughout.
Classes are grouped by age so that all the equipment and activities are developmentally appropriate.
Teacher/child ratios are kept low to insure a quality preschool education.
Quick Facts (2026)
- Top-Ranked CA School
- School Type: Early Childhood / Day Care
- Grades: Prekindergarten-Kindergarten
- Enrollment: 106 students
- Average class size: 14 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
First UMC Preschool ranks among the top 20% of private schools in California for:
Category
Attribute
School History
School Overview
School Type
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-Kindergarten
Year Founded
1948
School Calendar
Last Day of School
Fri. Jul 24, 2026
Student Body
Total Students
106 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
42%
State avg.: 51%
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
18 teachers
Student-Teacher Ratio
6:1
National avg.:
Average Class Size
14 students
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
children should wear comfortable clothes they can get messy in.
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
School Notes
- First UMC Preschoolschool started as a service to the children of church members. It soon expanded into a professional preschool for the community and over the years has gained a reputation as one of the finest in the city. Children beginning as young as2 years old. Under the guidance of qualified teachers and a full-time directors, the school provides a social emotional and play based focus that supports thechild's growth and development physically, socially, emotionally, and academically.This NAEYC Accredited program offers experiences in science, art, nature, music, and dramatic play throughout. Classes are structured by age so that all the equipment and activities are developmentally appropriate. Teacher/child ratios are kept low to insure a quality preschool education.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
What is First UMC Preschool's ranking?
First UMC Preschool ranks among the top 20% of private schools in California for: Oldest founding date.
When is the application deadline for First UMC Preschool?
The application deadline for First UMC Preschool is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
In what neighborhood is First UMC Preschool located?
First UMC Preschool is located in the Wilshire Montana neighborhood of Santa Monica, CA. There are 4 other private schools located in Wilshire Montana.
School Reviews
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