CareCompass
At a Glance
Trust Score
Based on comprehensive analysis of reviews, safety records, and operations.
About First Presbyterian Day School
First Presbyterian Day School in Austin
Established in 1962, First Presbyterian Day School provides a nurturing environment where children learn through discovery rather than drills. The program follows a play-based curriculum that utilizes specialized indoor centers including sensory areas, block building, dramatic play, and a dedicated reading nook. The campus is known for its expansive outdoor play space shaded by established oak trees and a student-tended garden. Led by Program Director Leigh Ballew, the school integrates Christian values through weekly chapel and the Godly Play curriculum. Classes are grouped by development, from toddlers starting at 12 months through a full-day Kindergarten program. In addition to regular school hours, families can access enrichment programs like Sportball and 'Stay N Play' extended care, fostering a community atmosphere that many parents describe as a second family.
What Parents Say
5 reviews from parents
I can’t say enough wonderful things about First Presbyterian Day School. I am so happy that we found this school for my child. It’s an impeccably clean and well maintained facility, with beautiful established oak trees that provide shade for the expansive outdoor place space they have. My child has been attending FPDS for over a year and is thriving. All the teachers and staff are genuinely caring and kind individuals who truly enjoy teaching and working with kids. They do tons of fun art and musical activities that are specifically geared to stimulate their growth and development. I feel very safe leaving my child there because he smiles and runs in when I leave him. I plan to enroll my second child there soon as well. Highly recommend!
We’ve been sending our kids to FPDS for the last 3 years and we love it so much! The teachers and staff are so nice and trustworthy. Highly recommend this preschool.
My children attend FPDS and we’ve had an overwhelming amazing experience. The teachers are patient, caring and take the time to get to know all the kids on an individual basis. I highly recommend this preschool.
We are thankful to have found First Presbyterian Day School! It is a wonderful space for kids to explore while also providing structure, thoughtful programs, and caring teachers and staff. Our son especially enjoys the outdoor classrooms and playgrounds, and is always excited to show off the art he does there.
All three of my kiddos have gone to this preschool. I cannot recommend it highly enough! The staff and teachers care so much about the kids and are obviously there for their love of children and passion for early childhood education. The focus on outdoor and sensory play was really important to our family - the playground is so beautiful and shady, they have a garden where the kids help grow plants and get to eat the veggies they grow. My kids were so prepared for kindergarten but got to learn through PLAY instead of sitting all day at a desk. The director is very intentional with the curriculum and all the activities are focused on the developmental stage of the children. Small class sizes and conscious discipline were other very important features of the program for us.
Web Report
Aggregated insights from public records & parent discussions
Safety Record
No safety concerns, news incidents, or legal issues were found for this location. The facility is a licensed child care center (License #189278) and has been registered with the Texas Department of Health and Human Services since July 1986. No public records of major violations or complaints were identified in available databases.
Parent Reputation
The school maintains a strong positive reputation among parents, who describe it as a nurturing and creative 'family-like' environment. Common themes in reviews include high praise for the play-based curriculum and the dedication of the staff. Local parent discussions on forums like Quora and Reddit consistently recommend the program for its high quality and welcoming atmosphere.
Staff Insights
The school is led by Program Director Leigh Ballew and employs a team of teachers frequently described by parents as 'creative,' 'loving,' and 'dedicated.' While no direct employee reviews were found on platforms like Glassdoor or Indeed, parent testimonials highlight low turnover and a deeply caring staff culture.
Quick Information
Varies by age and schedule
