Notre Dame School of Milwaukee's K3 Program
Give Your Child the Best Start
The K3 Program at Notre Dame School of Milwaukee (NDSM) offers far more than daycare — it’s a developmentally appropriate, dual language, faith-based education designed to help your potty-trained 3-year-old thrive. Research shows that high-quality early childhood education gives children a powerful boost — equalizing opportunities, fostering curiosity, and preparing them to thrive in kindergarten and beyond. At NDSM, your child will grow in mind, heart, and spirit, ready to take on the world with faith, joy, and a love of learning. This is the ideal first step into a lifetime of learning, rooted in values and excellence.
Program Success
NDSM’s early childhood program sets the standard for excellence. Nationally recognized and locally celebrated, our K3 program provides the highest quality start for young learners. At NDSM, you can trust that your child’s first educational experience is grounded in proven best practices, delivered with love, and designed to inspire success now and in the years to come.
NAEYC Accreditation
First elementary school in the city of Milwaukee and the Archdiocese of Milwaukee to earn accreditation from the prestigious National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), the gold standard in early childhood education.
5-Star Rated
Highest possible rating from YoungStar, Wisconsin’s child care quality rating and improvement system, recognizing our excellence in early learning and care.
20-Seat Capacity
Ensuring each child receives personal attention, care, and support to thrive.
The NDSM Difference
The NDSM K3 program stands out for its unique blend of faith, dual language immersion, and high expectations — all in a nurturing, developmentally appropriate setting. From the moment they arrive, students are embraced by a community that believes every child can thrive and succeed.
At NDSM, your child will experience more than just early education — they’ll gain the tools, values, and confidence to shine in kindergarten and beyond. Learn more about what makes NDSM different in K3 and higher grades.
- A dual language model that immerses children in English and Spanish, preparing them for a future of expanded opportunity.
- A strong foundation of faith and values, woven into every aspect of learning and play.
- High expectations for academics, behavior, and personal growth — appropriate for even our youngest students.
- Thoughtfully designed learning spaces and play areas that inspire creativity, movement, and joy.
- An intentional focus on social-emotional development, teaching resilience, kindness, and confidence.
What to Expect in Our K3 Classroom
Our K3 program is rooted in play-based learning, guided by Creative Curriculum and assessed through Teaching Strategies GOLD, a trusted, observation-based approach to tracking each child’s growth. Our K3 program combines structure, creativity, and care to help your child flourish — academically, socially, and spiritually. Each day is thoughtfully designed to nurture curiosity, build confidence, and instill a love of learning in a warm, faith-filled environment.
Here’s what a typical day looks like for our youngest learners:
- Begin the day in prayer, setting a calm and intentional tone
- Small group activities tailored to each child’s developmental level
- Choice time to foster independence and imagination
- Practice routines, procedures, and social skills that build confidence
- Read-aloud stories and time in the library to spark a love of reading
- Creative enrichment through gym, art, and music
- Plenty of time for recess and free play
- Rest and recharge with a nap period
- Healthy breakfast, lunch, and snack provided each day
- Immersed in a 90% Spanish-language environment to build dual language skills early
Register Your Child for K3
Start Now
Preparing Your Child for K3
Getting your toddler ready for a K3 program is an exciting journey. Start by helping them recognize their own name and build independence through daily tasks, such as dressing and using the bathroom. Encourage social skills by allowing them to play with peers, and foster a love of stories by reading together regularly.
Talk with your child about what preschool will be like to ease any nerves. Use visuals like picture schedules to help them understand routines. Taking outings to places such as the library or zoo provides excellent opportunities to practice appropriate behavior in busy settings. You can also support fine motor skills with simple activities such as drawing and handling small objects. These activities can help you assess your child’s readiness while building the confidence needed to thrive in K3.
Have Questions about NDSM's K3 Program?
Find answers to the most frequently asked questions (FAQs).
What is the tuition cost for the K3 program at NDSM?
For the 2024–2025 school year, tuition is set at $6,479. After carefully analyzing local programs, we are proud to offer a tuition rate that is affordable while delivering exceptional early childhood education.
What is included in the tuition?
Tuition covers a full program day from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (subject to change), including breakfast, lunch, and snacks. Your child will benefit from a developmentally appropriate curriculum taught by highly trained, certified early childhood educators within our enriching English-Spanish dual language program.
What is the cost for before- and after-school care?
Before-care starts at 7 a.m. and is offered at no cost to NDSM families. After-school care is available at $5.00 per hour, providing a flexible option for busy families.
What if I can’t afford the tuition?
We understand tuition can be a concern, which is why families are encouraged to apply for Wisconsin Shares, a state-funded assistance program that helps cover the cost of quality early childhood education for working or student parents.
Does my child have to be potty-trained before starting?
Yes, your child should be potty-trained to join the K3 program. Our daily schedule includes several bathroom breaks, and children are always welcome to ask when they need to go.
Are updated immunizations required?
Yes, state law requires children to be up to date on vaccinations to ensure a safe and healthy school environment.
Is a physical examination required?
Yes, a physical exam must be on file no later than three months after enrollment to help us best support your child’s health and well-being.
Will my child need to wear a uniform?
Yes, all students from K3 through 8th grade wear our school uniform. Detailed information about costs and where to purchase uniforms will be provided upon enrollment.
If my child turns 4 in September, should they enroll in K3 or K4?
To qualify for K4, children must be 4 years old by September 1 of the school year. If your child’s birthday falls on or after September 2, they are eligible for our K3 program.
Will my child be the oldest in the K3 class if born in September?
It’s possible your child could be among the oldest, but our curriculum is tailored to meet each child’s unique developmental needs, ensuring all students are challenged and supported socially and academically.
How many children are in the K3 program?
Our K3 program is designed for an intimate group of 20 students, allowing for personalized attention and a nurturing learning environment.
Our three-year-old absolutely thrived in the K3 program at NDSM. We watched her blossom with confidence, grow in her skills, and develop patience and independence that far exceeded our expectations. Thank you for giving her such a strong foundation. She’s now so excited to begin K4, and we feel confident we’ve given her the best possible start to her future.
- Current NDSM K4 Parent
Tuition with Financial Assistance
We believe every child deserves access to high-quality early education. That’s why our K3 program is thoughtfully priced to remain accessible for families, while still providing exceptional, dual language, faith-based learning. For the 2024–2025 school year, tuition for the K3 program is $6,479, which is slightly lower than comparable programs in our area — a reflection of our commitment to serving families in our community.
We understand that tuition can feel like a big step, but help is available. Families who qualify can apply for Wisconsin Shares, a state-funded assistance program designed to make quality early childhood education affordable for working parents. For more information or to apply for Wisconsin Shares, visit: dcf.wisconsin.gov/wishares/apply
We’re here to discuss tuition, payment options, or financial assistance—because every family deserves a warm welcome at NDSM.
Register Now or Contact Us with Questions
Ready to give your child a strong start? Register for the NDSM K3 program.
Still have questions? Reach out to us—Melissa Rios and our team are happy to provide answers, guidance, and any details you need. We’re here to help you feel confident and informed every step of the way.