Founded in 1928, NCRC provides a collaborative approach to preschool education in an environment that nurtures the whole child, fosters partnerships with families, and is committed to the inclusion of children with special needs. Our child-centered program is a play-based curriculum rooted in sound research and developmentally appropriate practices that reveal and enhance each child's skills.
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Nevertheless, interest in child study and parent education led representatives of eight organizations to obtain a three-year grant from the Laura Spelman Rockefeller Memorial to begin what was then known as Washington Child Research Center. When the grant ended in 1931, parents were faced with losing their children's school.
On behalf of the whole NCRC community, I am excited for you to explore our website and learn about our exceptional preschool, a center of excellence in early childhood education. Founded in 1928, National Child Research Center is the oldest continuously operating preschool in the District of Columbia.
NCRC stands on its pillars of inclusion, diversity, and equity and is committed to creating a diverse and respectful community, modeling empathy and civil discourse for all. By acknowledging, identifying, and celebrating our diversity, we can ensure children learn to respect and value difference from an early age.
National Child Research Center is a diverse, vibrant community that challenges our students to be curious, compassionate, and confident. The school is committed to employing faculty, staff, and administrators who lead by example in our community by striving to uphold the school's mission. Our staff and faculty arrive each day eager to learn and to teach, bringing their broad experiences and professional expertise with them.
Families interested in the current 2020/2021 school year should contact the Admissions team directly. Please note that our online Inquiry Form is not an application - it is a helpful first step in getting to know families interested in learning more about NCRC. Submit Developmental Supporting Documents and Reports (Required of Applicants with Documentation).
Reviews (6)
Susan Anton
Jan 11, 2018
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NCRC’s commitment to inclusion, diversity, and respect for each child as an individual is what originally brought our family to the school. Little did we know how our eyes would be opened to the outstanding level of teaching and curriculum, the joyful and warm feeling of the school, and a community of parents and teachers that have made NCRC feel like home.
L. Palmer
Aug 18, 2017
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Our kids had a one of a kind experience - the highly trained teachers and staff instilled a love of learning for our two kids. Further, the inclusive classroom taught our kids, in a hands on way, what it means to be empathetic, kind and open to children and adults of all backgrounds. Couldn't be happier - and our kids still beg to go visit! Such a special and unique first stop for school :)
Dina Tilghman
Jul 26, 2017
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Tiffany Adorno
Jul 21, 2017
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This is a great school!! I don't know that there really is anything else like it. The staff really care about the children, engaging them during, before, and after school. I feel a sense of certitude that my child is having a great time while there, learning and building friendships. The head of school is especially amazing, She is there to greet parents with a warm hug and a smile and it just makes my day to leave my son in the care of people who really care!! All the teachers bring their own style to the table but the underlining theme is consistent, celebrate love of learning, celebrate diversity
Rachna Butani Bhatt
Jul 20, 2017
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S. Curvey
Jun 23, 2017
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