St. Cecelia Interparochial Catholic School

Affiliate links — we may earn a commission

St. Cecelia Interparochial Catholic School in Clearwater, Florida offers a diverse educational environment with a particular emphasis on performing arts programming. The facility has established itself as a long-standing educational institution in the community, drawing mixed feedback from families regarding its academic approach and communication style. The school maintains traditional classroom structures while attempting to balance educational standards with extracurricular activities, though experiences appear to vary significantly among attending families.

What Parents Should Know

When you’re visiting a childcare facility in Clearwater, there are a few things you’ll want to pay close attention to. Start by observing how the staff interact with the children already in their care — are they engaged, patient, and attentive? That tells you a lot more than any brochure.

Don’t be shy about asking questions during your tour. Find out about their daily schedule, how they handle discipline, what meals and snacks look like, and how they communicate with parents throughout the day. Ask about staff turnover — consistency matters for young children.

Here in Florida, every childcare facility must be licensed by the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF). You can — and should — verify any facility’s license status before enrolling. It’s one of the simplest ways to make sure you’re choosing a safe, regulated environment for your child.

Choosing Child Care in Clearwater

Finding the right daycare in Clearwater takes a bit of research, but it’s worth it. The average cost for full-time childcare in this area runs about $200-$330/week, though prices vary depending on the child’s age, the facility type, and what’s included. Keep in mind that Clearwater is a beach community where outdoor programs are popular.

Start your search early if you can — many quality programs in Clearwater have waitlists, especially for infant and toddler spots. Your local Florida DCF office and the Early Learning Coalition can also connect you with resources, including financial assistance programs for qualifying families.

Florida Licensing & Safety

All childcare facilities in Florida are required to be licensed by the Florida Department of Children and Families. This isn’t optional — it’s state law. Licensed facilities must meet specific standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, and child-to-staff ratios.

Florida’s required staff-to-child ratios are: 1:4 for infants (birth to 12 months), 1:6 for one-year-olds, 1:11 for two-year-olds, 1:15 for three-year-olds, 1:20 for four-year-olds, and 1:25 for five-year-olds and older. You can look up any facility’s licensing status, inspection history, and any complaints at myflfamilies.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

What ages does this daycare accept?

Most licensed Florida daycares accept children from 6 weeks through 12 years of age. Infant care (6 weeks to 1 year), toddler programs (1-3 years), and preschool (3-5 years) are the most common. Contact this facility directly to confirm their specific age range and availability.

What are the hours of operation?

Licensed childcare centers in Florida typically operate Monday through Friday, with hours ranging from 6:00 AM to 6:30 PM to accommodate working parents. Some facilities offer extended hours, early drop-off, or late pickup options. Verify the current schedule directly with this provider.

Is this daycare licensed by the Florida DCF?

You can verify any Florida daycare licensing status through the Department of Children and Families (DCF) website at myflfamilies.com/childcare. Licensed facilities must meet strict standards for safety, sanitation, staff qualifications, and child-to-staff ratios.

What meals and snacks are provided?

Many Florida daycares provide breakfast, lunch, and afternoon snacks that meet USDA nutritional guidelines. Some participate in the CACFP (Child and Adult Care Food Program) for subsidized meals. Ask this facility about their menu, allergy accommodations, and whether parents need to pack meals.

How can I schedule a tour?

Most daycares welcome parent tours during business hours. Call the facility directly or use the contact information on this page to schedule a visit. During your tour, observe staff interactions with children, check cleanliness, review the curriculum, and ask about their emergency procedures.