Welcome to the Early Childhood Education Lab School at Monterey Peninsula College
(MPC). We are a state-funded, outdoor-based preschool program serving children ages
2 to 5, located right on the MPC campus. Our curriculum is inspired by Reggio Emilia,
Waldorf, and Montessori philosophies, and built around emergent, play-based learning.
Quick Links
Early Learning for Children, Real-World Experience for Educators
As part of MPC’s Student Services division, we are not only a licensed early learning
center, but also a teaching lab for college students preparing for careers in early
childhood education. Working closely with MPC’s Early Childhood Education Department,
we provide mentorship, guidance and hands-on experience working with young children
for future educators of young children.
Who We Serve
We enroll children ages 2 to 5 and welcome families from throughout Monterey County. We give priority enrollment to:
- Families who meet eligibility for the California State Preschool Program (CSPP)
- Students currently enrolled at Monterey Peninsula College or California State University, Monterey Bay (CSUMB)
- Staff who are currently employed by Monterey Peninsula College or California State University Monterey Bay (CSUMB)
Program Schedule
- Monday - Friday
- Full day (7:45 AM - 5:30 PM) or Part day (9:00 AM - 12:30 PM / 2:00 PM - 5:30 PM)
- Aligned with the MPC academic calendar
- Daily outdoor learning in secure, structured spaces (weather permitting)
Tuition & Funding
Thanks to California State Public Preschool (CSPP) funding and support from the state of California and county of Monterey, our program is free or low-cost for eligible families. Limited fee-based enrollment may also be available. Please call our office at (831) 646-4066 for more information.
A Place to Grow
"The teachers at MPC’s Lab School truly listen to the children. My child is more confident, curious, and communicative than ever before."
