Clayton Valley Parent Preschool

Clayton Valley Parent Preschool offers play-based preschool and prekindergarten programs that use creative and educational play experiences in a relaxed and caring atmosphere. Teachers are trained Early Childhood Educators who turn everyday play into learning moments and create a safe, nurturing space, using a hands-on curriculum that engages all the senses and focuses on developing the whole child physically, cognitively, emotionally, and socially. The program blends play-based exploration with active family involvement in a cooperative community setting.

• Ages: 2–5 years old
• Schedule: Hours Monday–Friday 9am–1pm

Clayton Valley Parent Preschool promotes the development of the whole child physically, cognitively, emotionally, and socially through play-based learning that supports emotional, fine, and gross motor skills. The program is described as a cooperative community where parents have the opportunity to share in their child's first school journey and participate in parent education through regular meetings and co-oping experiences.

The preschool’s history includes classroom construction beginning in October 1967, Articles of Incorporation filed on December 27, 1967, first orientation on February 29, 1968, and opening to students on March 4, 1968. It moved to its current name, Clayton Valley Parent Preschool, in September 1975 after previously being known as St. John’s Parents Nursery School, and it adopted the rainbow and sun as its mascot in 1981. The program has over 50 years of experience and has held its philosophy for over 55 years.

The current director is Natacha Uriarte (Teacher “Tacha”), an honored graduate in Child Development. Teachers are trained Early Childhood Educators, and past leaders include a former director, Patsy, who received a B.S. Degree with a major in Early Childhood Education from Cal State University Hayward, and former director DeeDee, who had extensive training in Developmentally Appropriate Practices in Early Childhood Education, the student-centered, self-guided learning of Reggio Emilia, and the active learning HighScope philosophy of childhood development. For the 2025–2026 school year, the board includes President Paty Metler, Vice President Kelsey Hinojosa, Secretary Michaele Sobral, Community Outreach Theresa Lee, Ways and Means Kristen Apple, Maintenance Starr Flores, Purchaser Jamie Bonde, Member At Large Collections Laurie Visperas, and a Treasurer whose name is not provided.

Former director DeeDee received the “Making a Difference in the Lives of Children” scholarship award. In 2009, the Mayor of Concord proclaimed April 9th as “Teacher DeeDee Day,” and in 2010 she was honored with the Teacher of the Year Award from the California Council of Parent Participation Nursery Schools.

Last updated June 26, 2026.