At Meadowlark Schools, we believe that every child deserves access to high-quality nature-based education, regardless of family income or circumstances. Our Stockton campus proudly participates in the California Alternative Payment Program (APP), making our unique educational approach accessible to families throughout the Valley Oak district and surrounding areas.
High-Quality Nature-Based Education Through the Alternative Payment Program
Our nature-based, play-centered curriculum provides children with the ideal environment for holistic development while accommodating families who qualify for subsidized childcare through the Alternative Payment Program. We're committed to not only accepting APP funding but also supporting families through every step of the application and enrollment process.
Understanding the Alternative Payment Program (APP)
The California Alternative Payment Program provides financial assistance for childcare and preschool to eligible low-to-moderate income families. This program is designed to support parental choice in childcare, allowing families to select the program that best meets their children's needs and their family's circumstances.
Key features of the APP include:
- Parental choice in selecting a childcare provider that meets your family's needs
- Financial support that covers part or all of childcare costs, depending on eligibility
- Continuity of care that allows children to remain in stable, quality learning environments
- Support for working families, those in educational programs
As an approved APP provider, Meadowlark Schools' Stockton campus works directly with subsidy programs to simplify the reimbursement process, allowing you to focus on your child's education rather than administrative paperwork.
How Meadowlark Schools Supports APP Families
We understand that navigating subsidy programs can sometimes feel overwhelming. That's why we offer comprehensive support for families using the Alternative Payment Program:
Application Assistance
Our knowledgeable staff can guide you through the APP application process, helping you understand eligibility requirements and gather necessary documentation. While we cannot determine your eligibility (this is done by the APP program administrators), we can help ensure your application is complete and submitted correctly.
Seamless Enrollment
Once you've been approved for APP funding, our streamlined enrollment process makes it easy to secure your child's spot at Meadowlark Schools. We coordinate directly with your APP program administrator to establish care and handle the reimbursement process.
Ongoing Support
Throughout your child's time at Meadowlark, our staff remains available to help with recertification paperwork, schedule changes, and any questions related to your APP participation. We believe in building strong partnerships with families that extend beyond the classroom.
Inclusive Community
At Meadowlark Schools, APP families are fully integrated into our school community. We foster an environment where all families are valued members of our community, regardless of payment method. Our commitment to diversity and inclusion ensures that every child and family feels welcomed and respected.
Eligibility for the Alternative Payment Program
To qualify for APP funding for childcare at Meadowlark Schools, families typically need to meet both income requirements and have a qualifying need for childcare services. While the specific eligibility determination is made by APP administrators, general requirements include:
Income Eligibility
Families must have a gross monthly income at or below the limits established by the California Department of Social Services, which are based on family size and the State Median Income. These income guidelines are updated annually and have been expanded in recent years to include more working families.
Qualifying Need
In addition to meeting income requirements, families must demonstrate a need for childcare services, which typically includes:
- Employment or seeking employment
- Education or vocational training
- Incapacity of the parent
- Homelessness or seeking permanent housing
- Child Protective Services referral
Priority Populations
The APP program gives priority to certain groups, including:
- Families with children who have been identified as having exceptional needs
- Families involved with Child Protective Services
- Families experiencing homelessness
Application Process for APP at Meadowlark Schools
If you're interested in enrolling your child at Meadowlark Schools through the Alternative Payment Program, we recommend the following steps:
- Contact us first to schedule a tour of our Stockton campus and confirm space availability
- Apply for APP funding through the Family Resource & Referral Center in San Joaquin County
- Notify us once you receive APP approval so we can coordinate enrollment
- Complete our enrollment paperwork and attend our family orientation
For families who are already receiving APP funding and looking to transfer to Meadowlark Schools, we can help facilitate this process with your current APP administrator.
Why Choose Meadowlark Schools for Your APP-Funded Preschool
When you choose Meadowlark Schools for your APP-funded preschool experience, your child receives the same exceptional educational experience as all Meadowlark students:
Nature-Based Curriculum
Our curriculum connects children to the natural world through daily outdoor exploration, gardening, and hands-on learning experiences. Children at Meadowlark spend significant portions of each day outdoors, developing resilience, confidence, and a deep connection to the environment.
Play-Centered Approach
We believe that play is children's most important learning medium. Through purposeful play experiences in thoughtfully designed environments, children develop critical thinking, creativity, social skills, and emotional regulation.
Holistic Development
Our approach nurtures all aspects of child development—physical, cognitive, social, emotional, and creative—preparing children not just for academic success but for lifelong learning and well-being.
Qualified Staff
Our teachers are highly trained in early childhood development and our unique educational approach. They create warm, responsive relationships with children while skillfully guiding their learning journeys.
Thoughtfully Designed Spaces
Our Stockton campus features natural playspaces designed to invite exploration, discovery, and connection with nature, complemented by warm, inviting indoor spaces filled with natural materials and meaningful learning opportunities.
A Typical Day for APP-Enrolled Children
Children enrolled through the Alternative Payment Program participate in the same rich daily experiences as all Meadowlark students:
- Morning outdoor exploration in our natural playspaces
- Small group learning experiences guided by teachers
- Garden and nature activities connecting children to the natural world
- Healthy, nutritious meals introducing children to diverse, wholesome foods
- Rest and reflection time in calm, peaceful environments
- Creative expression through art, music, and movement
- Social-emotional skill building through meaningful interactions with peers and teachers
Our Valley Oak location provides convenient access for families throughout the surrounding neighborhoods, with flexible hours designed to accommodate working parents' schedules.
Frequently Asked Questions About APP at Meadowlark Schools
Does using APP funding affect the quality of education my child receives?
Absolutely not. All children at Meadowlark Schools receive the same high-quality educational experience, regardless of payment method. Our commitment to excellence extends to every child in our program.
What if my income changes while my child is enrolled?
Changes in income should be reported to your APP administrator, who will determine if any adjustments to your eligibility or family fee are necessary. Your child's enrollment at Meadowlark Schools will continue regardless of these changes, though your payment responsibilities may adjust.
Can APP cover extended hours or full-day care?
Yes, APP funding can cover approved care hours based on your documented need, which may include full-day care, extended hours, or part-time schedules. During your eligibility determination, your APP administrator will establish the approved hours of care.
What if my APP funding doesn't cover the full cost?
Depending on your eligibility, APP may cover all or part of your childcare costs. If there's a difference between your approved subsidy amount and our tuition, you would be responsible for the family fee as determined by your APP administrator.
How is attendance reported for APP children?
Attendance is documented daily, and attendance records must be signed by parents/guardians. These records are submitted monthly to your APP administrator for reimbursement purposes. Our staff will ensure you understand the attendance documentation requirements.
What happens when my child is ready to transition to kindergarten?
Our program is designed to prepare children for successful transitions to kindergarten. As your child approaches school age, we'll work with you to ensure they're ready for the next step in their educational journey and can help connect you with resources regarding continued subsidy options for school-age care if needed.
Join Our Meadowlark Community Through APP
We invite APP-eligible families to explore the unique educational experience Meadowlark Schools offers. Our Valley Oak location is now enrolling children ages 6 weeks to 6 years for our infant, toddler, and preschool programs through the Alternative Payment Program.
Take the first step toward providing your child with an exceptional nature-based education by scheduling a tour of our Stockton campus or joining our interest list. Our team looks forward to welcoming your family into our community and supporting your child's journey of discovery and growth.
For more information about our nature-based curriculum or frequently asked questions, please explore our website or contact us directly.