Lycée Français de San Francisco
755 Ashbury Street, San Francisco 94117
At the Lycée, Preschool can start as early as age 2! The 3 to 4 year cycle, referred to as "Maternelle" in French, plays a key role in the development of children and their successful transition into thriving students. It builds the foundations children will later use during their entire schooling. It inspires them to question, create and explore while allowing them to develop their individual personality. It builds the confidence they need to trust their own power to act and think responsibly. Finally, it develops their ability to learn and succeed at school and in life. It all begins here!
At a glance
Extended care: 7:30 - 6pm
What this means
Play-based means children learn through free and guided play — social skills, problem-solving, and early academics emerge through play rather than direct teaching.
Full immersion means most of the day is conducted in French Immersion, so children absorb the language naturally. It's normal for kids to understand little at first — they pick it up quickly.
Tuition shown is as of 2024 and may have changed — confirm with the school.
Good questions to ask on a tour
- 1What does a typical day look like, and how much of it is child-chosen play vs. teacher-led?
- 2What are the exact drop-off and pickup times, and is there any flexibility?
- 3Beyond the listed tuition, what other fees should I expect (application, deposit, materials, field trips)?
- 4How do you handle the transition for children starting mid-year or moving up from a younger classroom?
- 5What is your potty-training policy, and how do you support children who are still learning?
- 6How do you handle discipline, conflict between children, and big feelings?
- 7How much of the day is in French Immersion, and do children need any prior exposure to the language?
- 8How does the transition to kindergarten work, and which elementary schools do graduates typically attend?
- 9What is your application timeline, and when do families typically hear back?
- 10How large is each class, and what is the teacher-to-child ratio?