About Us

Wah Mei School was the first Chinese American bilingual preschool to be established in San Francisco. Since our first class in 1974, our program has successfully promoted multiculturalism in developmental activities that emphasize both learning and playing for our young students.

Each child's individual strengths and needs are recognized, valued and integrated into the program. Classes are conducted in both English and Chinese, so the children develop proficiency in both languages.

Wah Mei School serves children ages 2 years 9 months to 5 years old. The school operates state-funded and private programs. Our hours of operation are 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM. Please contact our staff for more information about our school.

Philosophy
Wah Mei School recognizes the unique strengths of each child and is committed to meeting the needs of the individual child and their families. Children learn best in a safe and nurturing environment which helps them to grow and develop their abilities and skills to the utmost potential. We believe that bilingual and multicultural experiences are important parts of the development of children.

Curriculum
Our qualified teachers and staff members are dedicated to the development of the "whole" child within a bilingual framework. The goals of Wah Mei School's curriculum are to facilitate the child's growth and development in all areas, and to instill in them the appreciation of different cultures. Our child-centered curriculum is developmentally, culturally and linguistically appropriate, designed to encourage exploration, hands-on experience, creativity, imagination and social interaction. They are incorporated in activities of art, music, fine and gross motor skills, reading and math readiness, nutrition, health, science and social skills. With a low 1:7 teacher-child ratio, Wah Mei School offers a balance of individual, small and large group activities. Regular field trips and library experiences are also important features of our program.

Our preschool graduates move on to Kindergarten in both private and public elementary schools in San Francisco like: Holy Name, The Cathedral School for Boys, Alice Fong Yu, Commodore Sloat, DeAvila, Jefferson, Lakeshore, Lawton, Lafayette, Francis Scott Key, Sunset, Jose Ortega, McCoppin, Stevenson, and West Portal.

Teachers
Teachers and staff are selected for their ability to relate to children in a caring and enthusiastic manner. All teaching staff are qualified and certified with the appropriate state approved Early Childhood Education courses.

Parent Participation
Parents are encouraged to participate in their children's educational program by becoming involved in classroom activities, fundraising events, field trips, school board and various school committees.

Food and Nutrition
Wah Mei School serves breakfast, a hot lunch and one snack daily. All meals meet USDA requirements and only wholesome foods are served. Chinese, American and food of other cultures are included. A strong educational component about nutrition accompanies our meals program.

Program
Wah Mei School offers half-day and full-day programs to serve our communities, ranging from private non-profit to state-funded programs. Each program has the same educational emphasis. However, enrollment and egilibility requirements differ slightly. All programs require the following:

Please contact our staff to learn the particulars of each program.

Non-Discrimination
Wah Mei School is operated in accordance with the non-discrimination policy. The school offers equal treatment and access to services it provides to the public and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, medical condition or disabilities.