Ages 2 1/2 to 5

For information contact:

Mary Duus, Director

(973) 743-5596 ext. 13

History

Pilgrim Nursery School was the first nursery school in Glen Ridge.  Begun in 1955 as an outreach service to the community, we have since see another generation of some of those original students pass through our doors!  Today, Pilgrim remains true to its roots.

Philosophy

Pilgrim is dedicated to providing a developmentally appropriate learning environment coupled with a warm and nurturing staff.  Children's play is their work!  The curriculum addresses the needs of the "whole child": social / emotional, physical, lingual, and cognitive.  We respect that each child progresses at his or her own pace.  Nothing is more important than helping your child have a successful early learning experience by gaining self-confidence, self-discipline and a sense of self-worth.

Accreditation

Pilgrim Nursery School is licensed by the State of New Jersey.  The local Health, Police and Fire Departments inspect our facility annually.  All applicable certificates are posted in Classroom 3.  A copy of the Manual of Requirements for New Jersey Child Care Centers is available to all parents for review.  Pilgrim maintains an "open door" policy with parents of enrolled children to visit any time they choose.

Admission / Tuition

Children are accepted by Pilgrim from the ages of 2 1/2 to 5 years.  Children turning 2 1/2 by January of that school year are eligible for enrollment for the January-June term.  Our program runs from 8:45 am to 12:30 pm, 5 days/week.  2 1/2 year olds may opt for the 3 day/week program (Tuesday - Thursday).

Pilgrim is a non-profit institution.  Tuition is kept as low as possible and is set to cover supplies and staffing.  A discount is offered for siblings enrolled in the same term.  Families interested in our school can arrange a visit by calling the Director, Mary Dus, 973-743-5596 ext. 13.  Tours are available Tuesday and Thursday mornings.

Staff

We are proud of our enthusiastic and dedicated teachers who serve as models for the children by displaying positive attitudes and behaviors.  Our teachers' experience, knowledge, and education help provide the solid base for our program.  We meet all New Jersey licensing requirements for student / teacher ratios and teacher qualifications.  We support and provide continuing staff development.  Pilgrim will work with our families as partners; we have a shared purpose.

Facility

Pilgrim Nursery School offers a clean, safe, and cheery facility.  The classrooms are bright and roomy.  It is always fun to sit on those special child-sized chairs or on the colorful rugs.  The playground has become our new jewel!  Special fundraising has provided new equipment and landscaping to honor Jean Williams, the dedicated and tireless director of Pilgrim for over 35 years.  We are proud to honor our past as we plan for the future.

Special Events

In addition to our regular curriculum, Pilgrim celebrates these favorite annual events:

• Halloween Song Fest

• Thanksgiving "Feast":  soup and cookies prepared by the children

• Winter Holiday Program

• Intergenerational Story-Reading Days

• Pilgrim Olympics:  everyone is a winner!