Dear Preschool Directors: 3 Ways to Stand Out in a Universal Preschool World

Administration Department
May 28
2 min read

Posted: June 22, 2025

Category: Leadership | Strategy | Early Childhood Education

Dear Preschool Director, You’re not imagining it. California’s early education landscape is shifting fast. With universal preschool initiatives expanding, more families have access to free programs through public schools and TK rollouts.

So, where does that leave private and community-based preschools?

Right where you’ve always been: leading with innovation, flexibility, and vision. Now more than ever, standing out means leaning into what makes your program unique—and building the leadership capacity to adapt and grow.

Here are three strategic ways to stay competitive—and compelling—in this new preschool world.

1. Define (and Own) Your Signature Program

Families now have more choices. That means your school’s identity must be crystal clear. Ask yourself:

What are we really known for?
What do families tell us they love most?
What outcomes or values do we consistently deliver?

Whether your strength is play-based learning, nature integration, STEM for early learners, or culturally affirming care, now is the time to develop a clear brand that reflects your strengths.

Stand-Out Tip:

Offer an optional info night or video tour that highlights your program’s philosophy, curriculum themes, and graduate success stories. Make it feel personal and professional.

2. Create an Experience Public Programs Can’t Replicate

Public preschools often operate on tight schedules, limited resources, and standardized models. You don’t.

Your edge? Flexibility, family relationships, and community-driven care. Enhance that by creating signature experiences:

A morning ritual or mindfulness circle
Outdoor classrooms or garden learning
Family involvement projects
Storytelling events led by staff and children
Personalized portfolios and learning stories

These are the things that stick in parents’ minds and hearts—and set your program apart.

3. Invest in Leadership & Staff Development

Standing out begins with strong, confident leadership.

Directors who keep learning stay relevant, responsive, and ready for whatever the policy landscape throws at them. Whether it’s compliance, staffing, parent communication, or marketing, you set the tone for your program’s success.

At Theoria, we’ve trained directors across California to strengthen their programs and future-proof their schools. And right now, we’re offering our Director’s Deal to help you do just that.

Director’s Deal: Bundle 4 ECE Courses for $1000

(Regular price: $347 each)

That’s over $388 in savings per course. Whether you're brushing up on licensing, program design, staff supervision, or marketing, this is your moment to lead with strategy.

Explore Director-Level Courses

What Our Directors Are Saying

“Theoria’s courses gave me the tools to restructure my staffing and build a stronger brand. I used what I learned in real-time, and enrollment went up within two months.”— T. James, Director, Oakland CA

Use your summer to get ahead for your school, your staff, and your future.

Be the Preschool Program Families Remember

Universal preschool may be free, but you’re irreplaceable. With the right strategy, strong branding, and targeted leadership training, you’ll not only stay relevant, you’ll thrive.

Need help choosing your courses? Email us: info@theoriatechnical.com

What’s the best way for private preschools to stand out as universal preschool expands?