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5 Best Kindergartens in Dallas to Explore Before Enrollment
Moving to a new city comes with plenty to figure out, and finding the right kindergarten can quickly become one of the biggest decisions.
Between researching local kindergartens in Dallas, visiting classrooms and comparing tuition, the options can feel overwhelming.
Every child is different, too. Some thrive in active, play-focused environments, while others do better in smaller, more structured classrooms.
To make the search easier, we’ve rounded up some of the top local programs, so you can find a setting that suits your child and your family’s routine.
How Much Does Kindergarten Cost in Dallas?
Kindergarten costs in Dallas span from free public options up to $42,000 per year at competitive private preparatory schools.
| School Type | Expected Annual Cost |
| Public Elementary (K-5) | Free ($0) |
| Private Daycares and Learning Centers | $7,800 – $18,700 |
| Private Elementary Schools | $14,990 – $16,096 |
| Elite Private Preparatory Schools | $29,000 – $42,000+ |
1. White Rock North School
Website: http://www.whiterocknorthschool.com/
Address: 9727 White Rock Trail
Contact: (214) 348-7410 | [email protected]
Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Finding a school with deep local roots can make the daily routine feel more reassuring. White Rock North School has remained family-owned and operated since 1964. Over the years, it has even taught multiple generations from the same families.
Kindergarten is part of the Upper School, where certified teachers lead small classes with individualized lessons.
We like that students also get daily physical education and two recess periods. One parent we spoke with said this helped keep their energetic five-year-old engaged.
Kids can also build technology skills in the dedicated computer lab.
The main thing to budget for is additional childcare. Before- and after-school care costs $200 per month. It runs from 7:00–8:30 a.m. and 3:30–6:00 p.m.
Caring Teachers and Longstanding School Community
White Rock North is a STELLAR Private School !!! They are true educators that love and embrace each and every child !!! Tour their facility and meet their staff! Their school moto says is all….. Educating the Leaders of Tomorrow since 1964!!!
- Natalie D. Logan | Google Review
2. Highland Park Presbyterian Day School
Website: https://www.thedayschool.org/
Address: 3821 University Blvd.
Contact: (214) 525-6500
Hours: Monday-Tuesday, 8:30 AM – 1:45 PM | Wednesday, 8:30 AM – 11:45 AM | Thursday-Friday, 8:30 AM – 1:45 PM
Young children develop at varying speeds, so having immediate access to learning experts makes a massive difference.
Highland Park Presbyterian Day School offers that support with an on-site child development specialist and free initial speech-language evaluations.
Approved specialists can also provide speech, occupational, and play therapies during regular school hours.
We like that kindergarten students get structured reading and math instruction from a dedicated team of three teachers and classroom assistants. Their schedule also includes Spanish, library, music, art, and STEAM lab sessions.
Just note that the school has a strong Christian focus, with chapel twice a week and Bible lessons.
Families should also consider the short school day. Dismissal is at 1:45 p.m. most days and 11:45 a.m. on Wednesdays
Nurturing Environment and Enrichment
The Day School is such a wonderful environment for young children. The teachers are so nurturing, and the curriculum really prepares them for first grade. We especially appreciate the enrichment classes like music and Spanish. Highly recommend to any Dallas family.
Accessible Campus Support
We love Highland Park Presbyterian Day School! Having access to speech and occupational therapy right on campus has been a lifesaver for our family. The staff truly cares about each child’s individual development.
3. Our Redeemer Lutheran School
Website: https://ordallas.org/
Address: 7611 Park Lane
Contact: 214-368-1465 | [email protected]
Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Our Redeemer Lutheran School caught our attention with its expansive 10-acre campus. This is important for us as we believe that having plenty of outdoor space can be a big advantage for energetic young children.
It comes equipped with two age-specific playgrounds, a full-size indoor gym, and an outdoor learning center with garden beds.
We also like the smaller kindergarten classes, which are capped at 14 students per room. Academics follow structured reading and math programs.
On top of that, students also take Spanish, physical education, music, and technology.
The school offers flexible before- and after-school care on a drop-in basis, which can help busy families.
However, religious instruction is part of the daily routine. Students attend weekly chapel, take part in daily prayers, and regularly study Bible scripture.
Personalized Attention and Warmth
We absolutely love this school! From the moment we walked through the doors, we felt the warm, family atmosphere that sets it apart. The small class sizes mean our children get personalized attention and truly knows their teachers and classmates.
Academically Challenging Environment
ORLS was a great fit for my daughter, academically challenging enough to prepare her for middle school. Over the years all of the faculty & staff became like extended family.
4. Montessori Children’s House and School
Website: https://mchsdallas.org/
Address: 7335 Abrams Road
Contact: 214-348-6276 | [email protected]
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Office Hours) | 8:15 AM – 2:45 PM (Extended Day Program, approx. ages 4½-6) | 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM (Optional Before and After Care)
Self-directed learning can be a good fit for children who thrive with hands-on activities. Montessori Children’s House and School was established in 1970 and maintains full AMI accreditation.
Instead of relying mainly on whole-group lessons, classroom guides introduce tactile materials individually when each child is ready.
During a campus walkthrough, we saw five-year-olds preparing snacks independently and working with bead materials to build number skills.
We also like the Extended Day program, which works alongside early drop-off and late pickup.
The main drawback is the school’s age range. The campus only serves children through age six. That means families will need to start looking for a primary school once their kids need to move to first grade.
Authentic Montessori Pace
Our son has blossomed at MCHS. The AMI accredited program is authentic and beautifully run. The guides are so patient and really let the children learn at their own pace. The extended care hours are also a huge help for our work schedules.
Calm and Independent Learning
A truly special place.
The classrooms are calm, organized, and full of engaging materials. It is amazing to see how independent the children become in just a few short months. We are so grateful for the wonderful foundation they provided.
5. Lakehill Preparatory School
Website: https://www.lakehillprep.org/
Address: 2720 Hillside Dr.
Contact: (214) 826-2931
Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:35 AM – 4:00 PM
Nature-based learning gives young children plenty of opportunities to explore biology and environmental concepts firsthand.
Lakehill Preparatory School has a second 17-acre campus with a certified Environmental Science Center and access to more than 40 acres of preserved natural grounds.
A local family we spoke with said their kindergartener loves taking monthly trips out to this specialized facility.
Back on campus, classes average 14 students and include enrichment subjects such as Spanish, technology, and art.
Another advantage is the continuity from kindergarten through 12th grade. Families don’t need to make another school change after kindergarten.
The main drawback is the cost. Tuition reaches $22,900 for the academic year, with meals and after-school care charged separately.
Close-Knit Community
Lakehill Preparatory School is the only place I wanted to get an education from. All of the teachers are so nice and their goals revolve around preparing each and every student for college. Being in a small community is great because you can know everybody.
Academic and Social Balance
Our child has been attending since kindergarten, each year the facility continues to challenge him both academically and socially. We love the balance between pushing them academically and teaching them to be good, well-rounded people.
