Business Details
14 Years
experience
Private School Education for Toddlers to 5th Grade in NY
Founded in 2012, Over the Moon has evolved from a half-day preschool into a full-time independent private school serving students from 18 months through 5th grade. Our two campuses in Orange County, NY, provide enriched learning environments rooted in Responsive Classroom methodologies and developmentally appropriate practices. With a leadership team boasting over 50 years of combined educational experience, we prioritize whole-child development, fostering academic excellence alongside social-emotional growth. Our curriculum, designed by OTM EDventures, Inc., emphasizes experiential learning through play and exploration.We maintain low class sizes to ensure personalized attention, preparing students to become confident, compassionate global citizens. Our commitment to innovation and community values has established us as a trusted alternative to traditional public schooling in the Hudson Valley region.
Services
Early Primary Program
Primary Program
Enrichment Activities
Before & After Care
Summer Camp
Details
- Year established: 2012
Highlights and features
- We offer developmentally appropriate education with low student-teacher ratios
- Our curriculum integrates experiential learning through play and exploration
- Two campuses provide flexible options for early primary and primary education
- Enrichment activities like yoga, music, and gardening are included in tuition
- Leadership team has over 50 years combined experience in alternative education
Services
Early Primary Program
Our Early Primary Program serves students 18 months through pre-kindergarten with developmentally appropriate practices. We focus on sensory play, language exposure, and social-emotional development in a nurturing environment. The program prepares toddlers for structured learning through play-based exploration.
Primary Program
The Primary Program educates kindergarten through 5th grade students using alternative learning approaches and flexible seating. Our multi-age classrooms foster leadership development and individualized academic growth. Students engage in experiential learning that integrates core subjects with creative exploration.
Enrichment Activities
Included in tuition, our enrichment activities feature yoga, music, art, and gardening programs. These activities promote holistic development through creative expression and physical engagement. Each offering is designed to complement academic learning with hands-on experiences.
Before & After Care
We provide supervised care before and after school hours for working families. The program maintains our educational philosophy while offering flexible scheduling. Students participate in structured activities and free play in a safe environment.
Summer Camp
Our summer camp offers continued learning and enrichment during school breaks. The program combines academic reinforcement with recreational activities in a fun setting. Students maintain social connections and developmental progress throughout the summer months.
People
Suzanne M. Russell
Founder
Suzanne founded Over the Moon in 2012 and served as Head of Schools until 2025. She established OTM EDventures, LLC to support educators in creating innovative learning environments.
Kimberly Abatangelo
Principal - Pine Bush Campus
Kimberly leads the Pine Bush campus with over 15 years of educational leadership experience. She implements developmentally appropriate practices across early childhood programs.
Ashley Dolan
Principal - Middletown Campus
Ashley oversees the Middletown campus, focusing on creating inclusive learning environments. She specializes in responsive classroom management and student-centered curriculum development.
Valarie Petersen
Co-Owner
Valarie co-owns Over the Moon with extensive experience in early childhood education. She manages operational aspects while maintaining commitment to the school's educational philosophy.
Frank Nutt, III
Co-Owner
Frank co-owns Over the Moon alongside Valarie Petersen. He brings business management expertise while supporting the school's mission of whole-child development.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We serve students from 18 months through 5th grade across our two campuses in Orange County, NY.
What educational approach do you use?
We use Responsive Classroom methods and developmentally appropriate practices with an emphasis on experiential learning through play and exploration.
Are enrichment activities included in tuition?
Yes, yoga, music, art, and gardening activities are all included in our standard tuition rates.
What happened with the ownership change?
In June 2025, founder Suzanne Russell sold the school to Valarie Petersen and Frank Nutt, III, who also own local schools and daycares.
Do you offer before and after school care?
Yes, we provide supervised before and after care programs for working families at both campus locations.
