Parent Guide
There are over a hundred preschool programs in Marietta. Here's how to narrow them down — and what to actually look for during a tour.
Before anything else, narrow the list to schools that actually work for your life. Drive time matters more than most parents realize — a beautiful school across town becomes painful by month three.
Georgia's Quality Rated system rates child care programs from 1 to 3 stars based on five areas: learning environment, staff qualifications, curriculum, family engagement, and program leadership. A 2- or 3-star Quality Rated rating is a real signal — these programs have voluntarily submitted to extra evaluation. You can verify any Georgia program's rating at families.decal.ga.gov.
Marietta Academy is currently Quality Rated 2-Star and working toward 3.
Listings only tell you so much. Tour every school you're seriously considering — and watch the things that aren't in the brochure.
Are kids relaxed? Engaged? Crying briefly, then comforted? Or are they restless, ignored, or unusually quiet? Children's body language tells you whether the school's warmth is real or performed for the tour.
How do they speak to children — kneeling down, eye-level, using names? Or do they direct kids from across the room? You're looking for warmth, individual attention, and patience.
Is the classroom organized but lived-in? Are children's actual artwork on the walls? Is the bathroom clean? Is the playground in good condition? Is the food area inviting?
If you can, time your visit to see a transition — pickup, snack time, moving between activities. Transitions reveal how the school actually runs.
If a school dodges any of these or makes you feel silly for asking — that's your answer.
Visit Marietta Academy
Reading helps. Visiting helps more. Free 30-minute tours Monday – Friday at 444 Pat Mell Rd W, Marietta GA 30060.