Our Education Philosophy
At Open Gate Nursery School, we believe that children thrive when they are respected as individuals and given the freedom to grow at their own pace. Rooted in developmental readiness theory, our approach nurtures the whole child—socially, emotionally, physically, and intellectually—through play, discovery, and meaningful relationships.
We emphasize:
- Social-emotional development
- Physical skills and coordination
- Competence and independence in daily routines
- Creativity, imagination, and self-expression
- Confidence and self-esteem
Children between the ages of 2–5 are immersed in a rich, active environment where they choose their own activities, guided by caring teachers and participating parents. Learning emerges naturally through play, exploration, and peer interaction—rather than early academics—laying a strong foundation for formal schooling.
Our play-based curriculum is intentionally designed to meet children where they are, while gently preparing them for the next stage. With a balance of indoor and outdoor play, open-ended activities, and supportive adult modeling, children gain skills in:
- Language and literacy
- Mathematics and science
- Social studies and cultural understanding
- Art, music, and dramatic play
- Movement and large motor coordination
Mixed-Age Class (Ages 2–5)
Our mixed-age program welcomes children ages 2 to 5 with rolling admissions starting on their 2nd birthday. Children enjoy a balance of free play, small group activities, and circle time designed to support their development socially, intellectually, and physically.
All our classes typically run 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Extended Day Options:
- Early Drop-Off: Available at 8:30 a.m. for additional $10/day
- Lunch Bunch: Stay until 3:15 p.m. for $40/day additional (minimum 2 students enrolled; buy-out option available at $80/day). Must be potty-trained and not napping.
Monthly tuition assumes parents/caregivers participate in their child’s classroom one day per week. For less frequent participation, tuition adjustments apply:
- 3 times/month participation: +$40/month
- 2 times/month participation: +$80/month
- 1 time/month participation: +$120/month
2-Day Class
$360/month
Tuesday and Thursday
3-Day Class
$540/month
Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday
4-Day Class
$720/month
Monday through Thursday
5-Day Class
$900/month
Monday through Friday
Pre-K Program
Our Pre-K “pull-out” schedule is thoughtfully designed for children aged 4–5 who are preparing to take the next big step into kindergarten. “Small groups” tailored for Pre-K offers more structured group activities to support kindergarten readiness and these include thematic projects, storytelling, early public speaking (like monthly shares), and opportunities for reflection and deeper engagement.
Parent Participation
Building Community, Deepening Connection
At Open Gate, we believe preschool is a learning journey not just for children, but for parents too. Our unique cooperative model includes a vibrant parent education program that helps families grow alongside their children.
Once a month, parents and caregivers attend a parent education session, usually on a Tuesday night. These sessions are led by your child’s teacher—experienced educators who are equally passionate about guiding adults as they are about nurturing children. Together with other families, you’ll explore topics like child development, positive discipline, and social-emotional learning—using real-life classroom experiences as inspiration.
You’ll also laugh, reflect, and build friendships that often last well beyond your time at Open Gate. Guest speakers and parenting experts occasionally join us to offer fresh perspectives and practical tools you can bring home.
Parents also assist in their child’s classroom one session each week (flexible parent participation options are available). This is more than just volunteering—it’s a community of support, learning, and shared joy.
“Open Gate is not just a school for the children; it’s a school for the parents too… This is a great place to connect with other parents and grow together with your child!”
“I have learned so much and feel a confidence in my parenting that I did not possess before starting Open Gate.”
FAQs
Here are some common questions we hear from families. If you have additional questions, please contact us and we are happy to answer.
What are the family commitments when I join a co-op?
Building and sustaining a highly functional community requires all community members to
contribute and invest in service to the school.
Parents/caregivers are required to:
- Participate in the children’s classroom anywhere from once a week to once a month (flexible participation options available)
- Participate in parent education session once a month
- Complete 1 hour of cleaning and 1 maintenance task during the course of the year
- Meet fundraising requirement of $250 per year
- Participate and volunteer in fundraising events like holiday bazaar and auction.
What if I cannot volunteer in class every week?
We recognize that many families have two working parents, and we’re committed to supporting their participation in our community. Our flexible parent involvement options make it possible for all families to engage—whether that means helping in the classroom once a week or just once a month.
Who provides snacks?
Please pack a nut-free snack for your child. If you child is attending lunch bunch, please pack a separate lunch box for your child.
Are you a nut-free school?
Yes! If you want us to accommodate other allergies, please let us know.
Do children need to be potty trained to attend school?
No! Diapers are welcome in all classes. Children do need to be potty trained in order to attend Lunch Bunch.
What is the student-to-adult ratio in the class?
Our classroom is led by two professional teachers alongside participating parents. With a maximum of 22 students and several adults present each day, we maintain a low adult-to-child ratio that supports individualized attention and strong relationships.
When is the nursery available?
Nursery is available to parents/caregivers when they are participating in the classroom. Currently it is offered on Wednesdays – but please talk to us if you need it on another day and we may be able to accommodate you.
Ready to Join Us ?
Join our co-op preschool today and support your child’s early learning journey.