La Canada Preschool opened in 1949 and is one of the oldest preschools in Los Angeles County. With only three owner/directors in this history, Debbie Ficarra bought the school in 2003 from Mary Ellen Gilstrap, who trusted she would preserve the vision of what quality and affordable preschool would prevail.

The school has a deep rooted philosophy in children learning through play, and with a setting that is non-institutionalized and small. It is known as an early childhood educational center where children are valued for their individuality and creative spirit, where a child’s experience is more important than the curriculum.

Setting Their Own Goals

Today that vision is alive and well, where wonder, curiosity, self discovery, problem solving, interactions, exploration and play are valued above all else. At La Canada Preschool we believe children learn best when they make their own choices and set their own goals.

Experience is the the best teacher, it is the only teacher. Our flexibility and willingness to follow a child’s lead will allow remarkable things to happen, if we let them.