Rooted in community, focused on Katonah-Lewisboro children

Dear Editor,

We, the collection of directors from local preschools serving the KLSD community, want to remind everyone of the benefit of developmental nursery schools.

We do not believe in a boxed curriculum, but rather a holistic approach that meets each child where they are. At the tender age of 4, we should be helping our children navigate social relationships, engaging with a variety of art mediums, exploring the outdoors and learning the basic structures and routines that they’ll need later on. We want our children to feel loved and supported throughout their entire educational journey. We want parents to feel a sense of pride and belonging to the school that they choose for their child.

By having an array of different nursery schools to attend, families are able to exercise their right to choose the program that feels right. We believe that children learn best through play and that dirt and paint stains are a rite of passage at this age. We employ members of our community and have become an integral part of what makes Katonah-Lewisboro what it is. You’ll see our teachers at the local parks, shopping centers and town activities because it’s where they live. It’s where their children live and attend school. They are not showing up just for a paycheck, but because of their years of experience and strong belief in the programs in which they work.

Our beloved classrooms are carefully designed in a way that best supports these sweet children at such a crucial age. Our schools have been around for a long time and understand the full picture about what is needed to support children. We thank you for the consistent love and support you've shown us and sincerely thank you for entrusting your children in our care.

Katie Watkins, director of South Salem Nursery School; Erika Glick, director/owner of Katonah Village Kids; and Doreen Bistany, director of St. John's Early Learning Center