Before School Program
Serving LA's youth since 1988 221+ programs 23,861 Unique children served
Accepting applications year-round
What time does the Before School program start and end?
Our Before School program opens before the regular school day begins so working families have a safe and supportive option. Exact start times vary by site. Families can check with their Site Coordinator or school office for daily hours.
Is there a cost to participate?
No. LA’s BEST Before School programming is offered at no cost to families at participating LAUSD schools.
What do students do in the morning program?
Students start the day with calm, welcoming activities that set them up for success. This may include breakfast, quiet games, morning movement, reading time, or simple enrichment to help students feel ready for the school day.
Before School Program Information
LA’s BEST also offers a Before School Program at select elementary schools, extending its safe, enriching care to the morning hours before the regular school day begins. This program opens approximately 90 minutes before the first school bell and is available throughout the academic year. It was created to support working families who need early morning supervision for their children, as well as to give students a positive, energized start to their day.
Just like the afterschool program, the before school sessions are completely free to families and staffed by trained, caring adults. Parents and guardians sign their children in at the start of the day, assured that from that moment until school begins, their child will be engaged, safe, and well-prepared for a successful day of learning.
What to Expect
Before School Program Activities
Quiet Reading or Homework
Quiet Reading or Homework Finish-Up
Creative Enrichment
Creative Enrichment
STEM & Academic Games
STEM & Academic Games
Physical Exercise & Play
Physical Exercise & Play
Social-Emotional Check-In
Social-Emotional Check-In
All these activities are designed to be engaging but low-pressure, recognizing that it’s the start of the day. The goal is to spark students’ curiosity and get them mentally and physically ready for school. By the time the first class begins, LA’s BEST kids have already warmed up their brains, had positive interactions, and are ready to tackle academic challenges with confidence.
LA’s BEST Before School Programs are led by staff who understand the unique energy of mornings with young children. The staff-to-student ratio is kept manageable to ensure every child gets attention. Safety is our top priority, and students are supervised from the moment they arrive on campus. In many cases, the program is held in the school auditorium, cafeteria, or library, where children can be comfortably accommodated until they transition to their regular classrooms. When the school day is about to start, staff ensure each child gets to class on time.
Before School Program Availability
The LA’s BEST Before School Program is currently available at 20 sites, with more to come. Launched in response to community needs, the program offers families an added layer of support in the mornings. Parents interested in morning care can contact their school’s main office or the LA’s BEST site coordinator to find out if the program is offered at their school.
Building the Foundation for a Successful Day
Improved Academic ReadinessStudents start the day focused and ready to learn because they have time to wake up, settle in, and practice skills that help them feel prepared for the classroom.
Consistency and ComfortA stable morning routine with familiar staff and friends helps children feel calm, supported, and confident as they transition into the school day.
Social ConnectionsStudents build friendships across grades through shared morning activities that strengthen their sense of belonging and school community.
Supporting Working FamiliesFamilies can rely on a safe, welcoming early-morning option that supports their schedules and gives children a positive start to the day.
