We offer an intimate, theme-based, preschool experience for students in both age-separated and mixed-age programs. Our typical morning program includes separate circle time and curriculum activities for each age group. The dual programs create developmentally individualized opportunities where older students can explore a pre-kindergarten curriculum and younger students can work on building classroom fundamentals. Every day for about 20 minutes, we open the door between the two classrooms and offer mixed-age play. This allows our older students to serve as ambassadors for the younger students, and allows younger students to learn academic and social skills from their older schoolmates. We also offer an extended day “Fun Bunch” program that is mixed-age.
Is your program licensed?
We are licensed by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care to operate a Large Group and School Age Child Care Program.
What ages do you serve?
Children must be 2 years 9 months by September 1st although students may enter once they reach that age later in the year if space is available. Parents should discuss this with the director. Students stay with us until they enroll in Kindergarten.
How many classrooms do you have?
We have two classrooms: the Tiger classroom serves students from 2.9 to about 3.11 years of age and the Bears classroom serves pre-kindergarten students, from about 3.8 to 5 years of age. We also have an additional classroom that is used for small group enrichment opportunities throughout the day. Each classroom has two distinctive activity areas.
How many students can you enroll and what is the student to teacher ratio?
We can accommodate a maximum of 35 students per day between our two classrooms. Our daily class sizes vary depending on family schedule preferences, but the resulting student to staff ratio is 1:10 in the Bears classroom and 1:5 in the Tigers classroom.
How many days may my child come?
Students enroll for three, four or five mornings per week. Since our preschool is curriculum-focused, we believe students benefit from attending as many days as possible. More frequent attendance allows students to enjoy the full breadth and depth of the curriculum offerings and to make developmental connections from one activity to another.
What are your hours?
Our morning program runs from 8:30 am until 12:00 pm. We have an early drop off option at 7:30 am and a late pick-up option at 2:00 pm. See below for our extended day Fun Bunch Program.
Do you offer extended hours?
Our optional Extended Day Fun Bunch Program is offered every day from 12:00 pm until 2:00pm. We explore different enrichment themes each day of the week for the entire year. Students register for Fun Bunch day(s) for the entire school year although drop-in days may be available, space permitting.
What is the relationship between the Noanet Nursery School and The Dover Church?
Noanet Nursery School is owned and operated by The Dover Church, which shares our educational mission: Our mission is to nourish strong roots of integrity, decency, and empathy in children by expanding their appreciation of the world while stimulating their natural love for learning, their belief in themselves, and their thoughtfulness toward others. We do not offer religious programs.
How do I visit the school and when should I visit?
Tours for prospective students are scheduled at a time that is convenient for you and your family. A school visit is the first step in the registration process and typically lasts thirty minutes. Please fill out the form on our Schedule a Visit page to set up your your.
How do I register?
Registration opens in the fall for the upcoming school year and remains open until all slots are filled. Registration materials are given to prospective parents/guardians who visit the school. Confirmation of enrollment in the program is communicated in mid-December. Registration forms are available on the registration page under the enrollment tab for your convenience, but please note that the registration process begins with a school visit. Registration also includes a 10% deposit.