Josiah Hayden Pre-School @ Hayden Recreation Centre

THE JEWISH PRESCHOOL OF LEXINGTON (JPL) at Chabad Center 9 Burlington St., Lexington, MA 02420 781-863-7211, lexingtonpreschool.com

Director: Shaina Olidort Staff: 3 Lead Teachers, 2 teaching assistants Age Range: Toddlers to 6 years

Hours and Schedule (Sep-Aug, most Jewish holidays, some school holidays and Summer camp) ● School Year Calendar: as per Lexington Public School calendar ● Vacation Options: February & April Vacation program ● Summer Vacation: 8-week program (4 x 2-week sessions start June) ● Choice of Hours: Half days or full days. Open from 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Class Information: 3 classes: 1 toddler class, 1 3- and 4-year-old class, 1 pre-K/transitional K class.

Facilities: Outdoor play area with large playground includes a toddler and a 3+ climbing structure, a large riding surface and a large sandbox. We have a very large natural play area: winter sledding, summer planting, nature inquiry and exploration and much more fun. Newly renovated classrooms and bathrooms are large and bright. Classes are equipped with a large selection of educational resources and are designed to facilitate individual and group activities. Synagogue social hall available as indoor playspace during inclement weather. Fully air conditioned, well ventilated. Outdoor classroom model whenever possible.

Philosophy / Program: JPL is a child-centered, play based environment that addresses the social, emotional, and cognitive developmental needs of each child; as an individual and as a group member. We foster a positive Jewish identity while integrating secular and Jewish curriculum.

Special Activities: Enrichment programs from contracted specialists, weekly Shabbat parties, holiday celebrations, family gatherings, parent-enrichment programs, and local, nature field trips. Staff facilitate music, nature, and art exploration.

Parent Participation: Parents are an important and integral part of our program. We encourage parents to visit and participate in our school program and to share skills and specialties. This is within Covid Protocols

Enrollment Process: Parents are invited to schedule a visit to tour the school. Applications and registration forms are accepted in November for the following year. Please call for information or check out our website. Parents new to the area are invited to apply anytime given an open space.

JOSIAH HAYDEN PRE-SCHOOL @ HAYDEN RECREATION CENTRE 24 Lincoln St., Lexington 781-862-8480, josiahpreschool@jwhayden.org, www.jwhayden.org

Pre-School Director: Lyndsey Capra & Lauren St. Cyr Age Range: 2.9 months to Pre-Kindergarten Pre-School Head Teacher: Lyndsey Capra

Hours and Schedule: Monday-Friday, September-June, 9 a.m. -12 p.m. or 9

a.m. -3 p.m.

Tuition and Fees:

● Half Day: 1 day- No longer offered; 2 days $480; 3 days $665; 4 days $840; 5 days $1012 ● Full Day: 1 day- No longer offered; 2 days $860; 3 days $1237; 4 days $1536; 5 days $1740 ● AM Extended (8:00-9 a.m.): Not offered at this time ● PM Extended (3-4:30 p.m.): 1 Day $72; 2 Days $140; 3 Days $210; 4 Days $264; 5 Days $300 ● PM Extended (3-6 p.m.): 1 Day $144; 2 Days $240; 3 Days $324; 4 Days $432; 5 Days $480 ● Lunch Bunch- No longer offered.

Class Information: Ratio is 1 teacher for 10 students. 20 student maximum.

Facilities: Large, recently renovated sunny room in the Hayden Centre, use of Hayden gymnasium, fenced in outdoor space with a playground, garden and large area for play.

Program/Philosophy: The principle purpose of the Josiah Hayden Pre-School is to provide a supportive, developmentally age appropriate and positive first school experience.

We strive to create a classroom environment that promotes an interest in learning, a strong sense of community, a celebration of diverse cultures that make our town unique—all while fostering each child’s own independence. We focus on activities that support each child’s whole self—emotionally, cognitively, socially, physically and creatively and do this by providing our students a balance of structured learning, free choice, and play.

Enrollment Process: We have an open enrollment process. Parents are encouraged to come down to the Centre for a tour or to visit with the director by appointment via email at josiahpreschool@jwhayden.org.

Parent Participation: Welcome, but not mandatory.

KNOWLEDGE BEGINNINGS 429 Marrett Road, Lexington 781-860-0776, delbaz@klcorp.com, www.knowledgebeginnings.com

Director: Melissa Sumarus

Staff: 1 Director, 1 Asst. Director, 14 teachers Age Range: 6 weeks to 6 years

Hours and Schedule: 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., 52 weeks per year (closed 9 holidays).

Facilities: 1/2 mile from Lexington Center.

Program/Philosophy: Learning is meant to be a natural, joyful experience. Children learn by playing, experimenting, exploring, and testing. Children flourish when the process of discovery is lovingly encouraged and gently reinforced. This is the philosophy behind their research-based curriculum, which fosters individual growth by providing plenty of opportunities for exploration and child-initiated choice. All children need opportunities to be responsible, to make choices, and to be treated with respect. Their programs encourage your child’s growth and development with early-learning experiences that build a strong foundation for children’s cognitive, social, emotional, and physical skills. They believe each child has unique talents and interests. Their teachers honor these differences and activities by providing children with customized attention and activities that enable them to learn and grow at their own pace and in their own ways. Specific activities may vary depending on the center and the age of the children. The underlying principles of their program, however, remain the same: Children learn through active exploration. Children initiate their own learning. Learning comes from open-ended experiences. Adults are facilitators of children’s learning. NAEYC accredited.

Parent Participation: Parents are encouraged to visit and join in program activities and parent meetings. Parents receive daily reports and formal evaluations. Parent Committee meets monthly and family field trips happen quarterly.

Enrollment Process: Applications accepted anytime.

THE LEAP SCHOOL 210 Marrett Road, Lexington 781-861-1026, admissions@leapschool.com, www.leapschool.com

Directors: Robin Shapiro, MA, Founder; Dina Savitz, MS, Co-Executive Director Upper School; Victoria Roux, BS, Program Director Lower School; Terri Connelly, MA, Director of Admissions & HR; Jaclyn Olson, BS, Director of Admissions & Administration

Staff: 30 Teachers/Administrators/Specialists Age Range: 24 months (by Sept. 1) through 5 years (pre-K); 5 years -5:11 years (Transitional K)

Hours and Schedule: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., TTH, MWF, M-TH, M-F. Early Drop-off at 7:30 a.m.

Class Information: Toddler 2.0-2.11 years: 9 children, 2 teachers plus support teacher. Lower preschool 3.0-3.11 years: 9 children, 1 teacher plus support teacher. Upper Preschool 4.0-4.11 years: 10 children, 1 teacher plus support teacher. Trans./Kind.4.9-5+ years: 10 children, 1 teacher plus support teacher.

Facilities: Upper school in front building; Lower school in back building. Adjacent to town conservation trails.

Program/Philosophy: LEAP (Language Enrichment Arts Program) is a model early childhood program which supports the development of the whole child. The curriculum addresses cognitive, social, emotional, and physical developmental needs of children 2-5 years of age. There is a strong emphasis in the creative arts to provide language enrichment, conceptual learning, and promote self -esteem. Music, movement, drama, science, and visual arts are all incorporated into the weekly curriculum. Specialists in yoga, science, music, drama and nature visit the school on a regular basis. At LEAP you will find a beautiful facility, gorgeous outside play spaces and extensive creative arts and play materials. Parent support and education are provided. Excellence in education is the foundation of the school.

Enrollment Process: Contact LEAP School Admissions at 781-861-1026, ext.0

Parent Participation: Many opportunities for parents to be involved! Parent seminars, parent conferencing and resources. Strong parent communication.

Special Activities: Science, Music, Drama, and Yoga Specialists

See Summer Session details in the Summer Camp section.

LEXINGTON CHILDREN’S PLACE 20 Pelham Road 781-860-5823, ebillings@lexingtonma.org

Director: Liz Billings-Fouhy Staff: The Lexington Children’s Place is staffed by Lexington Public School personnel. A Masters Level child development teacher and assistant teachers will be supported by a wide range of specialists in various areas of child development. Ratio of staff to students is 1:5

Age Range: Children must be 2.9 years to enroll. Rolling admissions throughout the year on a space available basis.

Hours and Schedule: 10 months following the Lexington Public School Calendar ● 4 days: (M,T,W,Th) a.m. and p.m. options ● Morning option: 8:45-11:30 a.m. ● Afternoon option: 12:30-3:15 p.m. ● 5 days: (M-F) 8:45-11:30 a.m. ● Limited Lunch Bunch

Tuition and Fees: Yearly, paid in ten monthly installments or monthly. 4 days AM or PM $3894 ; 5 days: $4866. Lunch Bunch: $1420 year. Programming may be combined. Scholarships are available. Class Information: Each class has up to 15 children with 3 teachers and specialists. Facilities: Housed at 20 Pelham Rd next to Lexington Community Center.

Program/Philosophy: The Children’s Place provides special education and regular education services in an integrated classroom setting. The program is designed to promote a child’s cognitive, language, physical, social and emotional development through an integrated approach to learning. The goals of the program are: to provide a model, developmental preschool that is based on an inclusive, multicultural curriculum in which individuality and diversity are celebrated and all children learn and grow together as they explore their world; to provide an enriched, integrated setting for preschoolers in Lexington that mirrors the Lexington Public School school-age programs; to develop an active partnership with parents in their child’s early development through frequent communication, in-school visits and parent groups. Curriculum (Tools of the Mind) is a research-based curriculum that is gaining interest nation-wide and supports children ' s learning by focusing on active teaching of self-regulation and executive function skills and methods and activities that are developmentally appropriate and geared to young children ' s needs and interests.

Enrollment Process: Applications accepted starting September of the preceding year. Visiting days scheduled periodically. Enrollment for new families begins in January.

LEXINGTON CREATIVE START 55 Coolidge Ave 781-462-3054, micheller@communitiesunitedinc.org, www.communitiesunitedinc.org

Director: Michelle Rogers Staff: in addition to the director, there are two teachers per classroom and a mental health specialist on staff Age Range: 2 to 5 years

Hours and Schedule

● School Year Calendar: September through June, loosely following the local school calendar ● Vacation Options: closed during December Break, February Break and April Break ● Summer Vacation:Summer program option ● Choice of Hours: 4 hours (8:30 to 12:30) or 6 hours (8:30 to 2:30) Class Information: 2 class rooms: 1 toddler Class and 1 preschool classroom

Facilities: Bright spacious classrooms, with a large outdoor play area including robust playground equipment, a large protected driveway for riding bikes and direct access to walking paths through conservation land. Fully air conditioned and well ventilated to ensure comfort and safety.

Philosophy / Program: The goal of Communities United, Inc. to give preschool children and families an opportunity to experience growth by providing an environment that encourages participation and interaction in a full range of developmentally appropriate activities. We strive to increase the ability of children and families to cope with and initiate change in their lives and build upon the gains made through their experiences.

Special Activities: Free and nutritious meals, onsite health and education screenings, focus on Kindergarten Readiness, rolling admission, Master or Bachelor degreed teachers in each classroom, free to qualifying Head Start families, or families involved in foster or kinship care Parent Participation: Parent involvement within COVID protocols is welcome and encouraged

Enrollment Process: Parents are invited to schedule a tour to visit the school. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and can be submitted in person or online. Please be sure to have all necessary documentation before submitting an application. Any questions please call 781-472-1218 or email micheller@communitiesunitedinc.org.

LEXINGTON MONTESSORI SCHOOL, INC. 130 Pleasant St., Lexington 781-862-8571, www.lexmontessori.org

Director: Aline Gery, Head of School; Aimee Randall, Director of Enrollment Staff: 5 teachers in 2 toddler classrooms; 2 co-head teachers each of 4 classrooms for 3-6-year-olds, and 3 assistants; 2 co-head teachers in each of 5 elementary classrooms; 3 middle school teachers; 2 art teachers, 2 music teachers, 1 physical education teachers, 3 Spanish teachers, 1 gardening teacher; 5 after school teachers

Age Range: Toddler (21 months) through middle school.

Hours and Schedule:

Half-day for toddlers and 3 and 4 year olds: M-F 8:45 a.m.

-11:45 a.m. Full day for toddlers and 3 to 6 year olds: (through kindergarten): M, T, W, F, 8:45 a.m. -2:45 p.m.; TH: 8:45 a.m. -11:45 a.m. September-June Childcare available before/after school (opens 7:30 a.m. and closes 6 p.m.).

Facilities: 235 students (includes elementary and middle school). Facilities: Toddler-kindergarten building (Children’s House); elementary building (includes gym); separate building for middle school, art studio, music room, library.

Program/Philosophy:

● Children are naturally eager to learn ● Freedom within an ordered environment encourages independence ● All aspects of a child need nurturance: physical, social, emotional and cognitive ● Peer learning in multiage classrooms fosters strong interpersonal skills ● Uninterrupted work time allows focused learning – individual and collaborative ● Children learn best in a supportive, thoughtfully prepared environment ● Children learn to be resourceful and when to ask for the teacher’s help when teachers are guides and coaches, not the center of the classroom ● Children deserve respect as well as guidance

Enrollment Process: The application season begins on October 1. Families can call to set up an appointment to observe the classroom.

Parent Participation: Parents at LMS can be as involved as they would like to be. They encourage parents to participate in classrooms, in community service and community events and to share their expertise and interests. The Parent Association organizes community events throughout the year, and works with the Room Parents to help support the teachers; parents sit on our board of directors and volunteer in a range of activities in the school.

LEXINGTON PLAYCARE CENTER 6 Meriam St., Lexington 781-862-5485, office@lexpc.org, www.lexingtonplaycarecenter.org

Director: Christine Giguere Staff: LPC’s 15 teachers are warm, nurturing, creative, child development experts. Most have either a Bachelors or Masters, and most have years of experience. Age Range: 15 months - 6 years old Hours and Schedule: 7:30 a.m. -6 p.m. year-round. Part time and full-time options available. Tuition and Fees: $957-$2,881/month for Toddlers (15 mos. -2.9 years); $844$2,519/month for Preschoolers (2.9-6 years).

Class Information: Total: 55 licensed capacity. Our ratios are amazing! Ratios: Toddlers (15 mos-2.9 yrs) 2.5:8. Preschoolers (2.9 yrs-6 yrs) 2:10. Classes are highly developmental and multi-age. Facilities: LPC occupies 8 bright and sunny classrooms on the first-floor wing of the Church of Our Redeemer. Our “natural” playground features a hill with a built-in slide, a 4 surface trike path, and so much more! And when we are not playing there, you can find us on a lovely walk to the Lexington Green, Cary Library, the police or fire station.

Program/Philosophy: Lexington Playcare Center offers children an unhurried, nurturing, yet exciting environment rich with possibilities. The teachers create units based on the interests of the group and they may include such topics as insects, space and endangered animals. There are ample opportunities for children to develop pro social behaviors, problem solving skills and friendships! Our highly experienced and caring teaching staff guide children through a structured yet flexible day with a strong focus on active learning. The result - happy, happy kids! Enrollment Process: Parents are invited to tour the center with the director by appointment. Applications are accepted year-round and parents are contacted regarding openings for summer and fall in late winter. Parent Participation: Parents are considered our partners and are welcome anytime! The 9-member Board of Directors is made up of two parents, two staff, four community members, and the director. Additional parent participation is more than welcome and is optional. Special Activities: Yoga program biweekly, music specialists monthly, and our annual winter cultural series brings six live performances to our already fun-filled day. Summer Program: During July and Aug. we become Camp LPC! Many outdoor activities are planned. Swimming, “fishing” , pizza days, art, walks, field trips…there is not enough room here to list all the fun we have at Camp LPC

MY WEEKDAY SCHOOL 2600 Mass. Ave., Lexington 781-862-8489, office@myweekdayschool.org, www.myweekdayschool.org

Director: Kathy Reiss Business Manager: Una Gillis Staff: 5 lead teachers, 10 teaching assistants, 2 specialists Age Range: 2.9 years to 5+ years

Hours and Schedule: 37 weeks from September through mid-June, primarily following the Lexington Public School calendar. Preschool Morning Program (2.9 up to 4 years): 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Pre-K Program (4-5 years): 9 a.m.-1 p.m., includes lunch brought from home. Optional programs extend the day: Early Drop-off: 8-9 a.m. Lunch Program (preschool only) to 1 p.m. Enrichment Program sessions (Pre-K only) until 3 p.m. Extended Day until 3 p.m.

Tuition and Fees: Preschool: 3 days, $5,980; 4 days, $7,750; 5 days, $9,330. Pre-K: 4 days, $9,420; 5 days, $11,440. $100 non-refundable application fee per child for new families; $75 for returning families. One-time Capital Fund fee $100/family. Partial scholarships available; discounts for multiple children enrolled simultaneously. Discount for active military and members of St. John’s Korean United Methodist Church (one discount per family).

Class Information: Preschool: 2 groups of up to 12-15 students, one lead teacher and 1-2 teacher assistants daily. Pre-K: 2 groups of up to 13-15 students, one lead teacher and up to 2 teacher assistants daily. Maximum enrollment in School: 56.

Facilities: Five classrooms, one large indoor gross motor space, two outdoor play areas, and one activity area for Music and Creative Movement.

Program/Philosophy: MWS is an inclusive and non-sectarian play-based early education program. MWS aims to stimulate each individual’s physical, cognitive and socio-emotional development through hands-on experiences in a cheerful and caring atmosphere that values discovery, problem-solving and building a positive self-image.

Enrollment Process: Interested families may call the school for an informational tour at any time. Application forms, when available for the desired school year, are given at the tour and families are encouraged to return the completed form within 2 weeks. The returned application and fee hold a space for the child while families complete the Enrollment Agreement to be returned with the Holding Fee (tuition deposit).

Parent Participation: Parent Teaching Assistant (gives tuition credit); Active Parent Committee fosters parent involvement.

Special Activities: Music and creative movement specialists within the regular curriculum. Afternoon Enrichment series open to Pre-K (nature, music, STEM, and discovery). Back to School Night (for families), All-School Interactive Art Show, Pancake Breakfast and Silent Auction in early spring, and Family Picnic in June. Parents’ Committee arranges additional social events for parents and children.

THE SCHOOL FOR EARLY EXCELLENCE 56 Middlesex Turnpike, Burlington, MA theschoolforearlyexcellence@gmail.com; www.schoolforearlyexcellence.com

Director/Head Teacher: Tiffany Rodenhiser Age Range: 2 years 9 months to 5 years old Classroom Teachers: Tina Magnisalis and Peggy Richardson Hours and Schedules: Monday-Friday 7:30-3:30 pm. Flexible weekly schedules available. Open September-June with option to continue through the summer months

Tuition and Fees:

● Half-Day (9-12): 2 days: $330 3 days: $448 4 days: $546 5 days: $618 ● Extended Half-Day (9-3): 2 days: $490 3 days: $690 4 days: $820 5 days: $920 ● Full Day (7:30-3): 2 days: $572 3 days: $827 4 days: $1050 5 days: $1179 ● As needed options: Extended day 3-3:30: $5/day, Early Drop off 8:30-9: $5/day, Lunch Bunch 12-1: $10/day Classroom Information: Ratio is 1 teacher for every 10 students with a maximum of 25 students. We offer enrichment programs throughout the year (ie yoga, music programs, therapy dog visits) and love to involve the families in our daily curriculum! What Makes us Special: The School for Early Excellence (SEE) provides a safe, welcoming, and nurturing preschool environment where children are comfortable and inspired to learn. Our classroom promotes educational learning, lays the foundation for your child to become independent and gives them the opportunity to be creative through play.We have a purposeful and challenging curriculum that promotes creativity, exploration, and discovery through play while also getting our students kindergarten ready. Our curriculum centers on the children’s interests, which encourages independence, fosters self-esteem, and builds confidence. We believe in showing and documenting progress through fun, simple assessments as your child grows and gains new skills. As a community, our goal to expand upon social skills and encourage friendships to develop and flourish and involve families in the daily learning adventures of their child.

Enrollment Process: Please reach out to schedule a tour where you can meet with the director, see the classroom, and learn what The School for Early Excellence has to offer to your child and family. Application fee is waived for all LexFUN members!

THE SUNSHINE MONTESSORI SCHOOL 17 Hutchinson Rd., Lexington, MA 02421 617-855-5416, thesunshinemontessorischool.org

Director: Swati Roy Age Range: 18 months to 5 Years

Hours and Schedule: 8 a.m. -5:00pm. (M-F)

Tuition and Fees:

Morning All Day

18 mon – 3 yrs $1,450

3 yrs – 6 yrs $1,250 $1,950

$1,750

We also have flexible enrollment options for 2 days, 3 days or 4 days.

Class Information:

We are a home-based Montessori preschool. We are a mixed age group classroom, providing individual attention to each child, with the help of one lead teacher and two assistant teachers

Facilities: Newly finished area for a large classroom with lots of Montessori materials and regular toys. Large fenced backyard with outdoor toys

Program/Philosophy: Providing age appropriate, curriculum based fun learning activities are provided for the children so that they develop a love for learning at a young age.

Enrollment Process: Please get in touch with us to schedule a tour of our program. You can reach us on the phone at 617-855-5416 or using the contact us page on our website.

Parent Participation: We encourage parent participation

WALDORF SCHOOL OF LEXINGTON 739 Mass. Ave., Lexington 781-863-1062, www.thewaldorfschool.org

Director: Lauren Smith Admissions Director: Sarah Martin Age Range: Infant- Grade 8

Hours and Schedule:

● Parent-Child classes (infant to 5 years): Weekly drop-ins to full-year ● Nursery* (age 3 to 4.5): 8:30 a.m-12:30 p.m. ● Kindergarten* (age 4.5 to 6): 8:20 a.m. -12:30 p.m. ● Grades 1-8: 8:05 a.m. -3:05 p.m. ● Afternoon programs (N-K, grades 1-5): 12:30-6 p.m. ● Summer Programs: See website for details

Tuition and Fees:

Waldorf School of Lexington values an economically inclusive school community and offers tuition assistance based on demonstrated financial need. WSL affirms that financial means should not be a barrier to attend our school. We believe that every family that embraces and supports Waldorf education adds value to our school community. To this end, we are committed to partnering with every interested parent to make a transformative Waldorf education possible for their children. Visit thewaldorfschool.org/tuition to view our Tuition & Fees.

Class Information:

Total: 200 (Preschool to grade 8). 1-3 years: 2 groups of 10 (ratio 1:5), 3-4.5 years: 3 groups of 14 (ratio 1:7), 4.5-6.5 years: 2 groups of 18 (ratio 1:9)

Facilities: Large, sunny rooms in two historic buildings abutting the Minuteman Trail and Great Meadows conservation land. Athletic field, playgrounds, basketball/ tennis courts, biodynamic garden.

Program/Philosophy: Waldorf School of Lexington provides a challenging, arts-integrated curriculum in a healthy, joyful, media-free environment. One of over 1,200 Waldorf schools worldwide, WSL was founded in 1971 and serves 200 students from Preschool–8. In nursery and kindergarten, children develop social, physical, and pre-academic skills through self-directed creative free play, outdoor exploration, storytelling, chores, and games.

Enrollment Process: Visit, application ($50), interview, deposit upon acceptance.

Parent Participation: Festivals and community events, Parent Assoc., Board of Directors, Kitchen, Homespun Book and Gift Shop.

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