School is happening. With blended and remote learning, creative social distancing plans, and engaging lessons that span in-person and remote platforms, NYC schools are doing everything they can to make your little one’s education a meaningful experience.
We know you’re probably wondering what the school year will look like (and you may be very overwhelmed, like us), so we put together an overview of where we’re at right now with education in NYC.
We were inspired by some school-specific plans, so we included them in our guide for you to feel inspired too.
Preschool/Daycare
For the most part, preschools and daycares are open in NYC! For our working mammas, we know you’re probably excited about this news. But at the same time, you may be nervous about sending your little one back to an in-person learning environment.
Here’s what you can expect: new procedures for drop-off and pick-up, personal learning packs, masks, disinfecting toys and common spaces, and more. Lots of daycares and preschools also have handy resources to help your little ones adjust to social distancing, so be on the lookout for those. We also love how these early educational schools realize that many parents are saying goodbye to their little one for the first time, so they have plans in place to make sure that it’s still a special experience with plenty of time to adjust to a new situation for parents and a new environment for your kiddos.
NYC Public School
We’re sure you’ve heard of blended learning and remote learning by now, because that’s what NYC public schools have been teaching since late September. Kids are either being fully remote and for blended are taught both in-person and remotely during the week. NYC schools have invested in tech to make sure that all students can learn remotely, like distributing over 300,000 iPads to students who need them, while some families still are in need the DOE has stated they are working on getting all children an electronic device. Your family can also choose the all-remote learning option at any time.
Catholic Schools
Catholic Schools have implemented the in-depth reopening plan, “Moving Forward Together” for NYC Catholic schools. The goal has been to have all students in the classroom for a 5-day week. Social distancing protocols assure that your kiddos stay safe & healthy: social distancing markers and signs, daily screening and mask requirements, a “Guardian Angel” isolation room for students with COVID-19 symptoms, distancing in classrooms, one-way hallways and stairs, and more. Classrooms will have all the resources they need to stream their class live via Zoom, and remote students will have the technology they need to participate.
Montessori
You’ll definitely want to check your local Montessori school for the most up to date information, but it looks like Montessori schools are committed to reopening if they haven’t yet. Things will look different, of course, so except masks, wellness checks, temperature taking, limited classroom access to parents, enhanced health practices, and more.
Select Montessori schools reopened for limited summer programs, so they’ve had some time to adjust to social distancing and in-person learning. Lots of Montessori schools have distant learning plans in place should they need them if the pandemic worsens (let’s hope not!). What we’ve gathered is that Montessori schools are more than prepared and they’re excited to teach your kids.
Hebrew School
Hebrew schools have been excited to open their doors. What we love is that parents get the choice. We know how hectic it can to switch between virtual and in-person learning, and you may have some concerns about sending your little one back to in-person learning. That’s why you have the choice to choose remote or in-person learning for your kiddo at many NYC Hebrew schools.
What’s special about these schools is that you could enroll in after-school programs, so maybe your kiddo is doing remote learning for their school day, but then they head to in-person Hebrew school for an hour after they finish their lessons.
Preschools Listings
MANHATTAN
BASIS Independent Manhattan (PreK–Grade 5)
795 Columbus Ave., New York, NY
347- 305-4960
manhattan-admissions@basisindependent.com
BASIS Independent Manhattan Upper (Grades 6–12)
556 W. 22nd Street, New York, NY
347- 305-4960
manhattan-admissions@basisindependent.com
BASIS Independent Manhattan, a PreK–12 private school, is opening a second location in Chelsea in fall 2021! The beautiful new Upper School campus will be home to the school’s advanced Middle & High School program (grades 6–12), while their flagship Upper West Side campus will continue to serve PreK–5 students. From the spacious outdoor terrace to the bright, thoughtfully-designed classrooms, the BASIS Independent Manhattan Upper campus is the ideal setting for student learning and growth.
Preschool & Kindergarten: 144 Riverside Boulevard (66th Street)
Grades 1-12: 18 West 89th Street
Preschool & K: 212-362-2350
Main Campus: 212-724-3630
Founded in 1872, Dwight School is an internationally renowned independent school (nursery to grade 12), committed to educating the next generation of innovative global leaders — one student at a time. Providing a personalized experience for each student through the academically rigorous International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, Dwight is dedicated to “igniting the spark of genius” in every child. Dwight School has been recognized by the IB organization as a world leader in international education.
The First Presbyterian Church Nursery School
212-691-3432
The First Presbyterian Church Nursery School was founded in 1952 in the heart of Greenwich Village. The school offers a non-sectarian program, welcoming children and families of all configurations, religions, races, cultures, and economic backgrounds. Respect for individuality and community building are centerpieces of the program. The program is enhanced and inspired by the Reggio Emilia Approach. FPCNS has excellent student teacher ratios in classrooms for children aged 2.0 to 5.3. The nursery school offers large airy classrooms, a roof top playground, and indoor play space for rainy day play. Extended Day programming and an Early Summer program are available for 4s and 5s students. Parent participation is welcome and encouraged. A lending library with over 3000 volumes is a beloved parent run resource. The school actively raises funds to provide financial assistance to families in need.
410 E. 92nd St., New York, NY
212-831-3667
Gillen Brewer provides a family-oriented, early childhood program for children ages 2.8 to 10 years old with language-based and non-verbal learning disabilities. Learning and growing in a secure and nurturing environment, their students develop the skills necessary to overcome challenges. They work closely with families to instill self-confidence and build a strong foundation for lifelong learning and independence.
Lyceum Kennedy French American School
225 E. 43rd Street., New York, N.Y.
212-681-1877
lkadmissions@lyceumkennedy.orgLyceum Kennedy’s mission is to provide its students with a unique bilingual education based on the principles of self-expression and differentiated pedagogy (Nursery through 12th Grades). The school’s solid foundation allows students to grow into full participants in the world around them and keep a passion for knowledge throughout their lives. Lyceum Kennedy’s teacher/student ratio allows the school to understand and work with each student as an individual in order to ensure academic success and instill a love of learning. Students have the option to follow the French Ministry of Education, New York State Board of Regents and/or the International Baccalaureate program
25 Pine St., NY NY 10005
212-235-2325
Pine Street School is NYC’s only fully-accredited International Baccalaureate World School with a full-immersion Spanish and Mandarin program from Nursery (2s) through 8th Grade, and a Supplemental Spanish Program for new Spanish speakers in Grades 1-5. Using highly-respected international curriculums and the latest educational research, we prepare capable, confident, and responsible 21st-century world citizens and changemakers to best deliver an intellectually rigorous, inquiry-based approach that prioritizes student agency, technological fluency, and developing a global perspective. Conveniently near public transportation in the Financial District, regular age-appropriate field trips keep the learning meaningful and relevant. Contact admissions for information about available spots for 2020-21 and 2021-‘22, and inquire about Financial Aid starting in Kindergarten.
Pusteblume International Preschool
244 West 14th Street, New York, NY 10011
212-206-1137
Licensed, non-profit, independent preschool for children ages 2 to 5 offering German and Spanish language immersion. Our after-school and enrichment programs also accommodate school-age children and are open to students from other schools. On average, Pusteblume offers 30% more school days than other private schools and has flexible attendance options. Our state-approved curriculum is built around inquiry and exploration -featuring music, movement, literacy, and visual arts taught by our licensed, native-speaking faculty in a fun and warm learning environment. Schedule a virtual tour of our beautifully appointed, light-filled facility.
7 East 96th Street, New York, NY
646-213-3400
Wetherby-Pembridge is a British independent school for boys and girls ages 2 – 14 (Nursery 2- Grade 8) and holds sacred core values of Respect, Resilience, and Responsibility. The curriculum is based on the rigorous English National Curriculum and is enriched by NYC’s cultural experiences. Children are inspired to achieve personal confidence and success with integrity, kindness, respect, and manners. Wetherby-Pembridge partners with families to provide an academically challenging and bespoke program that works to supply all children with the tools to create in the world. Their unique community is educationally engaging and family-focused—Contact Director of Admissions, jean.monaco@wetherbypembridge.org for more information or enrolling.
BROOKLYN
ABC Infant & Toddler Center & ABC Child Center
109 Nassau Ave, Brooklyn, NY
718-389-9004
Providing safe, age-appropriate, and stimulating programs for children from ages 3 months to 4 years, while fulfilling their need to laugh, learn, play, make new friends, and discover new things. Child care for Infants & Toddlers, ages 3-24 months and Preschool for children ages 2-4 years. Full Day, Half Day Programs & Drop-off Care are available. Open year-round, Monday-Friday, 8am-6pm with rolling admission. Email for more information or to schedule a tour.
BASIS Independent Brooklyn Lower (PreK–Grade 2)
138 Willoughby St., Brooklyn, NY
917- 473-1615
brooklyn-admissions@basisindependent.com
BASIS Independent Brooklyn (Grades 3–12)
556 Columbia St., Brooklyn, NY
917- 473-1615
brooklyn-admissions@basisindependent.com
BASIS Independent Brooklyn, a PreK – 12 private school, will open a second campus for fall 2021 at City Point in Downtown Brooklyn that will serve students in PreK–grade 2. This state-of-the-art facility will be thoughtfully designed to welcome their youngest learners to the BASIS Independent Brooklyn curriculum and community. The school’s flagship campus in Red Hook will continue to be home to students in grades 3–12. BASIS Independent Brooklyn is accepting applications in grades PreK–10 for fall 2021.
Dillon Child Study Center @ St Joseph’s College
239 Vanderbilt Ave, Brooklyn, NY
718-940-5678
Offering half- and full-day, mixed-age programming for 2.9 – 4.8 year olds in an atmosphere where children are free to express their feelings and ideas. Children learn through play, developing confidence, competence and dispositions for future learning. The toddler, preschool and kindergarten programs offered here are led by NYS certified teachers and assisting them in the classroom are students from SJC’s Department of Child Study. The laboratory preschool is composed of modern, spacious classrooms and parents are encouraged to observe their child’s interaction with teachers and classmates.
277 3rd Avenue, Brooklyn, NY
718-499-5667, ext. 14
This pre-primary Montessori school provides a respectful, inclusive community, helping children feel powerful and confident as learners and as social and emotional beings. Toddler, half-day and extended day programs are available for ages 2 to 6. Rivendell School offers beautiful Montessori classrooms, an excellent student/teacher ratio, and a warm, cooperative atmosphere where children learn o work and play.
Science, Language & Arts International School
Main Campus: 9 Hanover Place, Brooklyn, NY
Early Childhood Campus: 132 4th Place, Brooklyn, NY
718–636–3836
SLA’s immersion programs are French: Nursery (age 2) through Middle School; and Mandarin: Nursery (age 2) through Grade 1, expanding to Middle School by 2023. Their model is based on the hands-on integration of science with visual arts, language immersion, and math. A project-based, science-fueled interdisciplinary focus allows children to make connections, work independently and collaboratively, and solve problems creatively.
QUEENS
119-17 Union Turnpike
Forest Hills, NY 11375
718-268-4667
Established in 1918 and having celebrated its centennial this past year, The Kew-Forest School is the oldest independent co-ed, college preparatory school in Queens. With 70+ nationalities represented on campus and 30+ languages spoken at home, the School provided a safe nurturing, and intellectually vigorous environment for students in Preschool through Grade 12. For more information, please contact: Brad Walters, Director of Admission, admission@kewforest.org.
BRONX/RIVERDALE
Administrative Offices:
711 Manida St.
Bronx, NY 10474
718-542-1161
lapen.com
La Peninsula is a community-based, multi-site Head Start organization serving communities in the South Bronx across four sites. Offering a qualitative and robust educational program, both on-site and virtually to children, aged 2.7- 5 yrs. Licensed and highly trained professionals in education, mental health, nutrition, special education, and disability coordination, and family service; support families across a wide range of areas. A year-round, comprehensive program that provides healthy food and snacks; health and nutrition screenings as well as parent education and workforce readiness courses; special education service delivery; and family support services.
WESTCHESTER
2170 Saw Mill River Rd, Elmsford
914-592-3027
Each child is considered first, as an individual, and then as a member of the group. Regularly planned group activities meet the natural, physical, emotional and cognitive needs of children at play. The staff is carefully trained to promote a positive environment and to keep a balanced routine that does not stress or overstimulate children. The staff is adhering to all Covid-19 protocols for the safety and well being of the children.
Ardsley Community Nursery School
21 American Legion Dr., Ardsley
914-693-4932
The Ardsley Community Nursery School is proud of its caring staff and dynamic enrichment program. Creative and developmentally appropriate academic activities are based on weekly themes and geared toward recognizing the talents of each child. A lovely playground and local field trips enhance programming. Soccer, dance and yoga classes are included with tuition.
17 Sagamore Road, Bronxville
914 779 4852
Eliza Corwin Frost is unquestionably a bright star among the early childhood schools in Westchester; it possesses intentionality and direction in the early childhood-centered journey. We support the whole child – social, emotional, creative, academic, moral, and physical development. Each classroom is designed to address the developmental needs and stages that are unique to very young children. Due to the ongoing pandemic and the capacity guidelines recommended to keep all in our community safe, we are only able to offer our Threes and Fours classes this year, including both in-person and virtual learning options. Visit www.elizacorwinfrost.org to view our class descriptions, COVID-19 protocols, steps to register, and more!
Liberty Montessori Summer Science Program and Fall Classes
155 Beechmont Dr., New Rochelle
636-3461
631 W. Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck
777-1382
Liberty offers programs yearly for toddlers through 4th grade. Parents will find a unique kindergarten enrichment curriculum, a special music program, and the Challenger Program for advanced students. Multilingual programs in Chinese, French, German, Spanish, and Japanese are also offered. For summers this school continues to focus on inspiring creative thinking and hands-on scientific exploration. Indoor and outdoor summer fun activities are based on a thematic approach to bringing the young scientist to the surface in all preschoolers. Presented through an interdisciplinary curriculum for children ages 17 months to 7 years.
Montessori School of Pelham Manor
1415 Pelhamdale Avenue, Bronx, New York
914-738-1127
Upholding a “tradition of excellence” for over 35 years, this school firmly holds to the principles of child development devised by Dr. Maria Montessori. Children ages 3 to 5 work with apparatus in a prepared environment progressing at their own rate, developing the confidence and love of learning that is the hallmark of Montessori Our small class sizes make it easy for our instructors to find out how to best cater to your child’s unique learning needs. Prepare your child for a lifetime of learning.
The Nurtury Montessori Schools
431 N. Ridge St., Rye Brook
11 North Brook Rd., Larchmont
2097 Palmer Ave., Larchmont
1144 North Ave., New Rochelle
1146 North Ave., New Rochelle
130 Flandreau Ave., New Rochelle
914- 632-6200
The Nurtury is committed to promoting quality, full-time Montessori childcare for children ages six weeks to 6 years. The first six years of life are when intelligence and personality are formed. We significantly understand this concept, and as a result, The Nurtury has set the standard for full-time Montessori childcare. Contact bbnanny@gmail.com directly for more information.
100 Overlook Circle New Rochelle, NY
914-632-8836
Thornton-Donovan, Westchester’s little red schoolhouse, begins its 120th school year on Thursday, September 10th. T-D’s class sizes range from as small as five and none larger than ten students. Several classes will be taught outdoors. When T-D opens, all classes will be live or remote as school family have either one as an option. The New York State Board of Education has already approved T-D’s protocols. Last year the senior class was awarded 1.2 million dollars in academic scholarships from schools as far away as Reed in Oregon and as close by as N.Y.U.
OTHER
18 Goodfriend Drive East Hampton, NY 11937
631- 907-5000
Ross School is a co-educational institution serving more than 300 students from grades pre-nursery to 12 and postgraduates, including boarders in grades 7-12 on our beautiful campus in East Hampton, New York. The school’s mission is to change the way education meets the future; to foster interdisciplinary, integrated thinking and innovative leadership; to engage fully in the global community; and to facilitate lifelong learning. Ross is the only K–12 private, nonprofit school on the East End and offers both day and boarding options.
