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Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

What are the dates and hours for school?

Start date: Wednesday, August 12, 2026
Last day: Friday, May 28, 2027 (pending approval)
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‍Daily Hours
‍Preschool & Kindergarten: 8:30am–3:15pm
Grades 1–8: 8:30am–3:30pm

Who can apply to City Garden?

Families who live in the City of St. Louis may apply to either our Preschool (Primary) Program or our K–8 Charter School.
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For full eligibility details, please visit our Admissions Information Page.

What are our chances of getting in?

Available seats vary each year and depend on enrollment needs and the number of applications received. Historically, City Garden receives more applications than available openings. Families are encouraged to apply to City Garden and at least two additional schools to maximize enrollment options.we do not admit new 8th graders
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Please note:
Many Charter School seats are filled through sibling preference
Sibling preference applies only to siblings currently enrolled at City Garden (not cousins or other relatives)
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What grades do you serve?

Preschool (Primary): Ages 3–4 (must be independently potty trained)
‍Charter School: Kindergarten through 8th grade
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Please Note: We do not admit new 8th graders.

When can we apply?

Applications for both Preschool and the Charter School typically open the first week of October for the next school year.
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Visit our Application Page to submit an application.

Does City Garden have Before and After Care?

Yes. Before and After Care is available for PreK–8th grade students.
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‍Before Care: 6:45am–8:30am | $7 per student per day (2025-26 rates)
‍After Care: 3:30pm–6pm | $12 per student per day (2025-26 rates)
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Financial aid is available for qualifying families

Does City Garden have transportation (school bus)?

No. Families provide transportation.

Students may walk, bike, or be dropped off and picked up by car.

Preschool Questions

Are there tuition or fees to attend the preschool?

Yes. The Preschool (Primary) Program is tuition-based. '
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City Garden uses a sliding-scale tuition model to make Montessori education accessible to families across income levels. Monthly tuition ranges from $235–$1,220, depending on household income and family size.
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Our admissions team is happy to help guide families through this process.

Are preschool students guaranteed a slot in the K-8 Charter School?

Preschool students must apply separately to the K–8 Charter School.
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Guaranteed seats apply only to:
Children of current City Garden employees
Siblings of currently enrolled Charter School students.

An application is required for all students, including those with guaranteed placement.‍

Is there a uniform or dress code for preschool?

Preschool students do not wear uniforms.
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Families are asked to follow these guidelines:
- Comfortable clothing for movement and exploration
- Clothes children can manage independently for toileting
- Closed-toe shoes for safetyNo hats worn indoors
- Children go outside daily whenever possible, so weather-appropriate clothing is encouraged.

Charter School (K-8)Questions

Are there tuition or fees to attend the K-8 Charter School?

No. City Garden’s K–8 Charter School is free to attend.
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Optional fees apply only for families who choose Before and After Care services.

Is there a uniform or dress code for the K-8 Charter School?

Yes. Students in Kindergarten through 8th grade follow City Garden’s Dress Code & Uniform Guidelines.
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‍Uniforms support:
A sense of belonging and equity. Focus on learning and relationships
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‍Additional notes:
‍Preschool and Pre-K students do not wear uniforms
Junior High students are asked to keep a spare uniform at school

For full details, please refer to the 2025-26 Family Handbook.2025-26 Family Handbook

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ADDRESSES

Early Childhood Education Center

Preschool & Kindergarten

1618 Tower Grove Ave | St. Louis, MO 63110

Elementary & Adolescent Education Center

1st - 8th Grade

4209 Folsom Ave | St. Louis, MO 63110