Helen Diller Family Preschool
Helen Diller Family Preschool, located in Laurel Heights, is a play-based curriculum designed to spark exploration, creativity and exploration. We work with children through the Jewish lens, focusing on values such as inclusiveness, friendship and justice.
Led by Director Karla Cianci, Helen Diller Family Preschool is located inside the JCCSF at 3200 California Street in Laurel Heights. The school features spacious classrooms, two outdoor play areas (total of 5,700 square feet), garden space and art studio. Children also make regular trips to the Presidio for additional outdoor time.
Take a Peek Inside
Our preschools are built upon shared goals, values and knowledge that deliver the highest quality experience possible. We’re committed to creating an inclusive community that’s infused with meaningful Jewish values. We celebrate holidays with our children and families throughout the year as well as a weekly Shabbat. Our program is built on the fundamental premise that children learn and understand their world through play. Inspired by the Reggio Emilia philosophy, we provide a variety of opportunities for learning, exploration, creativity and self-expression.
Admissions
Applications and tours for the 2025 – 2026 school year are now open.
We can’t wait to welcome you and your little one to our family of preschools. We’ll support you every step of the way – from applying and touring, throughout your days with us, and into the big transition to kindergarten. All three steps below must be done in order for your application to be complete. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Submit an Application
When you select the “Apply” button, you will be prompted to either log into your existing JCCSF account or create a new one. Once you’re logged into your account, select “Personal Information” from the settings, and under “My Household” create a new contact for your child. Then when you continue onto the application, select your child’s profile to complete the process.
For families who have a child turning 2 by January 1, 2025, we have space available for your child to start preschool at that time. If you are interested, please fill out the 2024 – 2025 application, and register for a tour for this fall.
Step 2: Take a Tour
Step 3: Fill Out a Questionnaire
Decision Time
Enroll
Financial Assistance
HELPFUL REMINDERS
- To be considered for enrollment in the 2025 – 2026 school year, your child must be 2 years old by September 1, 2025.
- You must complete all three steps of the application process.
- Only one application is required for admission to all three preschools.
Questions about applying or touring? Contact preschools@jccsf.org.
We embrace diversity and believe that every child deserves a welcoming, supportive environment to learn and grow. We are committed to fostering an inclusive community where all families, regardless of culture, family structure, language, racial identity, gender, religious beliefs or economic class are welcome.
Dates & Rates
Diller Program
Morning and afternoon extended care is available for an extra fee. Summer camp is also available for 9 weeks. Financial assistance is available.
FAQs
What is Reggio-Emilia philosophy and how is it applied?
What does a typical day Helen Diller look like?
What makes Helen Diller different from Rosenberg and Brotherhood Way?
Rosenberg is a full-day, 11-month program (8 – 6 pm) located in the Inner Richmond. Brotherhood Way has half and full-day options and your choice of a 9- or 11-month program. They are located in Lake Merced near Brandeis School.
Does Helen Diller have morning or after school care?
Does my child need to be Jewish to enroll?
Is financial assistance available?
Navigating the Kindergarten Process
Graduating from preschool to kindergarten is a big step! Did you know that 80% of our preschool families get into one of their top two choices of kindergartens? Our enrollment support process can help you get a spot in local programs like Brandeis, San Francisco Day School, Burkes, Town School for Boys, San Francisco Friends School, Hamlin, Convent, Stuart Hall, Marin Country Day School, Live Oak and more. Listen below as Diller site director Karla Cianci shares how the JCCSF family of preschools can help your family navigate the tricky and stress-inducing SF kindergarten process.
Meet the Team
Get in Touch
Contact Us
Have a question about Helen Diller Family Preschool? Reach out to our team — we’d love to hear from you!