Is the CEC a nonprofit organization?

The CEC is a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit organization and all gifts made to it are tax deductible to the full extent of the law. The CEC's Tax ID Number is 95-3403258.

Is the CEC accredited?

Yes, the CEC's Infant-Toddler and Prechool Program and Cooperative Preschool at Caltech are accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).

What is your curriculum?

The CEC’s curriculum and caregiving approach is research-based and designed to meet the emotional, physical, and cognitive needs and interests of children. Well-established early childhood education and brain development theory demonstrate that children thrive and learn best when the environment provides developmentally appropriate and meaningful experiences.

How and when should I apply to enroll my child?

Please review our admissions process. Due to the wait lists for various programs, we advise families to submit the application well in advance of needing care. Prior to enrollment, we also encourage you to review our Parent Handbooks: Infant-Toddler & Preschool Programs, Cooperative Preschool, and/or School-Age Program.

What is the CEC’s relationship to Caltech and JPL?

The CEC is a private, nonprofit organization and was founded in 1979 at the behest of Caltech and JPL in order to offer a high-quality child care program for its employees. The CEC does receive some financial support from these two institutions and in return, Caltech and JPL employees do receive priority regarding enrollment and a discount on tuition.

Do I have to be a Caltech or JPL employee to enroll my child?

No. The CEC, since its inception in 1979, has been open to any and all families who are interested. However, Caltech and JPL employees do receive priority for enrollment as well a tuition discount. All families, whether from the community, Caltech or JPL, are eligible to apply for tuition assistance.

Does the CEC have a wait list?

The CEC does have a wait list for each age group in the Infant-Toddler and Preschool Program. The School-Age Program wait list varies by site. Please contact Helen Ruppel, Director of Administration for more information.

Do you serve lunch?

Since children have unique diets, food restrictions, and preferences, parents provide their child’s lunch. In addition, the CEC serves two healthy snacks each day.

I have a child with special needs. Can my child attend your program?

We welcome the opportunity to enroll children with a range of special needs, developmental delays, disabilities and medical conditions. Please contact our Program Director, Lisa Cain-Chang, for more information regarding the CEC’s inclusion of children with unique needs.

Does the CEC accept funding from outside agencies?

Yes, the CEC accepts funding from outside agencies such as Options, Child Care Resource Services, regional centers and other state funding programs.