VBCPS Preschool Benefit
BUILDING BRIGHT FUTURES
Give your child a strong start through YMCA Preschool and Early Learning Programs
VBCPS & the YMCA teamed up to create 235 new childcare slots across three locations for early learners aged 1 to 5
Finding childcare is tough, so VBCPS and the YMCA have partnered to give teachers and full-time staff assigned to a school an exclusive advantage. These new childcare slots are completely reserved for VBCPS enrollment before opening to the community.
YMCA Early Learning programs offer a trusted, high-quality early childhood education program that combines a safe, nurturing environment with an intentional, research-based curriculum. Designed to promote intellectual, emotional, and social growth through the Streamin3 curriculum and aligned with VBQ5 standards, YMCA preschool prepares children for kindergarten success and a lifelong love of learning.
Children ages 1-5 will:
- Learn through hands-on play and exploration
- Develop strong cognitive, physical, and language skills
- Build character through our core values: caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility
- Cultivate independence and self-confidence
- Prepare for kindergarten and beyond with a solid academic foundation
Enroll by June 30, 2026 to lock in your child’s space for the 2026/2027 academic year.
Choose your exclusive VBCPS tuition below or apply for income-based tuition with the Y’s Open Doors financial assistance program.
LOCATIONS
- Salem YMCA Family Center
- YMCA at JT's Camp Grom
- YMCA Early Learning Center at Memorial United Methodist Church
- YMCA of Portsmouth
MONTHLY RATES
Tuition is paid monthly by automatic draft from your preferred credit or debit card on the 1st of the month for the Salem YMCA Family Center, YMCA at JT's Camp Grom and YMCA Early Learning Center at Memorial United Methodist Church. Weekly payments are not available at these locations. A $100 enrollment fee is due at registration.
| Classroom | VBCPS Employees | YMCA Members | Community |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-Year Old Classrooms | $1,053/month | $1,170/month | $1,408/month |
| 2-Year Old Classrooms | $819/month | $910/month | $1,149/month |
| 3-Year Old Classrooms | $760.50/month | $845/month | $1,084/month |
| 4-Year Old Classrooms | $760.50/month | $845/month | $1,084/month |
WEEKLY RATES
Tuition is paid weekly by automatic draft from your preferred credit or debit card on Mondays, 14 days in advance of the school week begin date for the YMCA of Portsmouth. Monthly payments are not yet available at this location. A $100 enrollment fee is due at registration.
| Classroom | VBCPS Employees | YMCA Members | Community |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-Year Old Classrooms | $243/week | $270/week | $325/week |
| 2-Year Old Classrooms | $189/week | $210/week | $265/week |
| 3-Year Old Classrooms | $175.50/week | $195/week | $250/week |
| 4-Year Old Classrooms | $175.50/week | $195/week | $250/week |
Classroom placements are based on your child’s age at the start of the academic year. Children progress to the next age group each fall. Your child must be at least 1 year old to enroll.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How do I qualify for the VBCPS discount?
You must be a VBCPS employee assigned to a school to receive the discount. Proof of employment is required.
What locations are included?
This program is available at the Salem YMCA Family Center, YMCA at JT’s Camp Grom, and YMCA Early Learning Center at Memorial United Methodist Church in Virginia Beach, and YMCA of Portsmouth on High Street in Portsmouth.
How old does my child need to be?
This early learning program is for preschool children ages 1–5.
What are the hours?
Early learning centers are open Monday through Friday from 7am to 6pm with some locations opening as early as 6am.
Complete your registration online
Click Begin Enrollment to submit your child's information. Our team will then reach out to verify employment and add the discount eligibility to your YMCA account and email you with a link to complete your registration online. Prefer not to register online? Please call (757) 962-5555.
When does the program start?
The 2026-27 school year begins August 24, 2026. YMCA early learning programs are year-round continuous programs that start with the beginning of each school year, and when you enroll your child, you are enrolled through the following August. If you need to cancel your enrollment during the year, we require a 14-day notice through our Child Care Change form.
Interim preschool options are available to full-time VBCPS employees assigned to a school for this summer (2026) at the Salem YMCA Family Center and YMCA of Portsmouth.
Does the Y offer any financial assistance?
The Y offers assistance up to 40% off member and nonmember rates based on demonstrated financial need through the Open Doors program. Open Doors discounts may not be combined with the VBCPS discount, but may be chosen instead if you qualify. You do not need to be a VBCPS employee to qualify for Open Doors financial assistance.