Established in 1964, Deerfield Community Nursery School (DCNS) provides a sound, appropriate play-based curriculum for
children between 18 months and 6 years old. The school offers a rich program that stimulates the physical and mental development
of each child in an atmosphere that promotes social and emotional growth.
In order to sustain this long-standing vision, DCNS will continue to:
- employ
and retain experienced and nurturing teachers;
- maintain a very low child-to-teacher ratio in each
class;
- provide a supportive and developmentally appropriate environment for each child;
- respect
each child's individuality and developmental needs;
- be governed by a board of directors, comprised
of interested parents; and
- foster close parent-staff and family-to-family relationships.
DCNS welcomes all preschool-aged children and has no religious affiliation.
Our Philosophy — Learning Through Play
Play is the cornerstone to our
educational philosophy. It has purpose and meaning to children and is a major avenue for development and learning. Teachers
strive to make learning fun by using play situations to help children relate to concepts and ideas. For instance, blocks are
used to introduce such math concepts as more than, higher than, and smaller than — all terms which have clear and concrete
meaning for children. Learning this way is fun and engaging, and it allows teachers to create a classroom atmosphere
that buzzes and bubbles with delight.
In designing our programs, three goals are paramount:
1. Help
child and parent adjust as the child makes the transition from the security of home to a small group setting.
2. Provide a warm atmosphere where a child can eagerly participate.
3. Develop a trusting relationship between
child, parent and teacher.
Parent Board of Directors
Our board of directors, made up of interested parents,
is a critical component of our success. The board is responsible for non-educational policy and business matters. Board-sponsored
fundraising events help keep our tuition on par with other local preschools. All parents are encouraged to participate in
board and school activities.
