Both children and teachers initiate the topics we explore, wonder about, and discuss in our preschool classrooms. Some topics develop into in-depth study projects that provide children opportunities to collaborate in small groups to make predictions, test theories, and revisit experiences. Children and teachers learn together as they co-construct and research topics of interest as partners.
They work together to "uncover" the curriculum in an emergent way, rather than viewing the teacher as the expert who must "cover" the curriculum by teaching facts and giving information. In our emergent, inquiry-based curriculum, teachers carefully observe and listen to children. They make written observations, take down notes of dialogues with children, and photograph children as they are create, explore, and play with materials.
They work together to "uncover" the curriculum in an emergent way, rather than viewing the teacher as the expert who must "cover" the curriculum by teaching facts and giving information. In our emergent, inquiry-based curriculum, teachers carefully observe and listen to children. They make written observations, take down notes of dialogues with children, and photograph children as they are create, explore, and play with materials.
Services
Strong efforts are made to develop an inclusive community throughout the preschool - monthly newsletters keep parents informed about classroom happenings, curricular studies, and items that may be needed to enrich topics of study. Teachers communicate with parents on a daily basis to help everyone feel connected and included in our preschool program.
Children attend our preschool three or four mornings a week. Children can begin preschool whenever they become 2.9 years old, anytime throughout the school year. We try to meet parent requests for choice of days, when children attend three mornings per week. We invite interested families to contact us by telephone or email the Director at DottyMeyer@gmail.com to arrange for a tour of our program.
The preschool is open Monday - Thursday mornings and the children are present from 9:00 to 12:00 each day. Student interns typically work two mornings a week, from 8:30 to 1:00. Student interns earn practicum or independent study credits as they assist classroom teachers, learn about young children and their families, and discover an innovative approach to early education inspired by the educators of Reggio Emilia, Italy.
Reviews (7)
Lin Tang
May 22, 2020
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Our older son spent 3 amazing years at the Renaissance School. Both my husband and I are educators, and to say we are selective about programming, and have a deep understanding of instruction, and social emotional learning is an understatement. I toured every program in our area, and the moment I walked into ’s well organized, calm… classroom, with multiple discovery stations, age appropriate schedule, and instructional intent behind every activity - I knew I found something incredibly special. and her team of teachers provided an amazing learning environment for our son, he loves
Sophie Horowitz
May 30, 2019
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My son just finished his second year at the Renaissance School and we will all miss it so much. Renaissance is a warm and loving place where kids get to play and learn by following their own interests and curiosity. Ms Dotty is so thoughtful and purposeful in how she puts together the curriculum, arranges the classroom, and talks with the kids about their developing social and emotional abilities. We really felt that our son was well taken care of here. <3
Rui Tian
May 28, 2019
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Evelin Aquino
Jul 24, 2017
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Our daughter attended Renaissance for the past 2+ years and absolutely thrived in the environment that supported her learning, especially her social and emotional development! The diversity, in every aspect, that the school nurtures could not be matched by any other preschool in the area. We are beyond pleased with how ready and delighted our little girl is to be going into kindergarten in the fall. Thank you, Ms Dotty, for the love and care you put into the school and children!!
Gillian Freeman
Sep 23, 2015
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My daughter could not be happier at pre-K!! She can't wait to go every morning. They play, do crafts, and learn a lot in the process! The teacher to student ratio means that all the kids get enough attention while learning to do things for themselves, their friends, and their community. Love this school! Dotty Meyer is running a fantastic program.
Hayley Trickey
Sep 18, 2015
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Julie Meservey
Oct 28, 2014
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I had the opportunity to visit this beautiful preschool and I am inspired and delighted! There is a reverence for childhood here that is sadly lacking in many early childhood programs. Here is an oasis from… pushed-down curricula and rushed childhood. Here is where children learn as they are meant to learn—through play and guidance from a knowledgeable, nurturing staff in an environment that is uncluttered, child-centered, and simply beautiful. This is how the foundation for a lifelong love of learning begins. Kudos to the Renaissance School for all that they bring to children and
