Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Trusted Preschool Learning Through Play in Harvard
At Village Nursery School, we believe children learn through play. Founded in 1953, we are the oldest continually operating preschool in Harvard, dedicated to providing a nurturing, child-centered environment for toddlers and preschoolers. Our developmentally appropriate programs honor each child's unique learning style while fostering intellectual, creative, physical, social, and emotional growth.With small class sizes led by highly qualified teachersmany with over a decade of tenurewe prioritize kindergarten readiness through play-based learning. Our bright, engaging spaces include outdoor areas with playgrounds and access to nature trails, ensuring a joyful first school experience that cultivates a lifelong love of learning.
Services
Two Year Old Program
Three Year Old Program
Young Fours Program
Pre-K Program
Extended Day Services
Financial Aid Options
Details
- Year established: 1953
Highlights and features
- We have served Harvard families since 1953 with proven early childhood expertise.
- Our teachers average over 10 years of experience in child-centered education.
- Outdoor spaces include a playground, nature nook, and conservation trail access.
- We maintain non-discrimination policies across all programs and employment practices.
- Parents receive regular updates through our transparent communication approach.
What people say
Passionate about what they do
Learned valuable skills
Flourished in the program
Services
Two Year Old Program
Designed for 21-month-olds by September 1st, this program introduces structured learning through play. Classes run Mon/Wed or Tues/Thurs, 9am-12pm, with tuition at $4,121 annually. Activities focus on sensory exploration and foundational social skills.
Three Year Old Program
Focuses on classroom navigation and group participation. Offers Tues/Thurs or Mon/Wed/Fri sessions at varying tuition rates. Includes sensory activities, fine motor development, and basic self-help skill practice to prepare children for structured learning environments.
Pre-K Program
Builds on preschool skills with kindergarten readiness curriculum. Available Mon-Thurs, 9am-1pm or 8:45am-12:45pm, with $8,206 annual tuition. Balances play-based learning with literacy, math, and social-emotional development to ensure smooth transitions to elementary school.
Extended Day Services
Offers early morning (8:00-9:00), lunch bunch (11:45-12:45), and extended day (12:55-3:00) options Monday-Friday. Priced at $16-$32 daily, these programs provide additional learning and social opportunities beyond core class hours.
Financial Aid Program
Provides partial tuition grants to support accessibility. Families apply during enrollment, with awards based on demonstrated need. Ensures children from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds can benefit from our early childhood education programs.
People
Maureen Bajko
Director
With over 25 years of early childhood education experience, Maureen leads our team in implementing developmentally appropriate practices that prioritize each child's unique learning journey through play-based curriculum.
Emilie Staiger
Assistant Director and Pre-K Teacher
Emilie combines classroom teaching with administrative leadership, bringing 15+ years of expertise in preparing children for kindergarten success through balanced play and structured learning activities.
Katie Ward
Extended Day Coordinator
Katie oversees after-class programs, ensuring continuity of care with creative activities that reinforce daily learning while accommodating working families' schedules.
Heather Thomas
Twos Teacher
Specializing in toddler development, Heather creates nurturing environments that introduce young children to structured routines and foundational social interactions through age-appropriate play experiences.
Elizabeth Horne
Pre-K Teacher
Elizabeth designs kindergarten readiness curricula that blend literacy, numeracy, and creative exploration, drawing on her 12 years of experience in preparing preschoolers for elementary school transitions.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We serve children aged 2 through Pre-K, with programs tailored to developmental stages.
How does enrollment work?
Applications open in January, with a lottery held if demand exceeds capacity. Priority is given to returning students and alumni.
Are there extended day options?
Yes, we offer early morning, lunch bunch, and extended day programs until 3:00 PM.
Do you provide financial aid?
Yes, we offer partial tuition grants to ensure accessibility for all families.
What is your educational philosophy?
We believe children learn through play, focusing on kindergarten readiness while maintaining a joyful, child-centered environment.
