Garden Preschool Cooperative — Local services in Jersey City

I can't say enough great things about Garden Preschool and the amazing teachers there! Like many parents, I've had anxiety about sending my kid off to school. But I can't express enough how MAGICAL of a pre-school experience this was for our son and it was the right decision hands down. Here's my best take on a detailed and objective review of the pros and cons (aka things to be aware of) in determining if GPC is the right school for you. The pros: THE TEACHERS: Literally the absolute best! 3 days into Summer break, and my son is saying he misses his teachers. They are wonderful, fun, fair, gentle yet firm. They design an inquiry-led curriculum that balances both academic and socio-emotional development.

CLEANLINESS: No outdoor shoes in the school is a plus, and to the best of their ability, organic, non-toxic cleaners are used by the volunteers daily. It helps keep the kids healthy!

ENRICHMENT: Story Builders with/ Miss Alla (dramatic play and creative skill development), music class with Mr. Kyle, and field trips to sites in the real world. Plus LOADS of outdoor time, which we know is important for immune and behavioral support.

PICTURES & COMMUNICATION: We get SO MANY pictures highlighting our kids' day, work, friends, trips, etc. I don't feel like I've missed my kids' most pivotal years. The parents also have a Slack that allows for real-time communication amongst them.

Other pros: the mixed-aged classroom is mutually beneficial for all ages, healthy food rules are great, class room design is primed for play & learning.

The Challenges: More something to be aware of than an outright con. COMMUNITY COMMITMENT: It's integral to the health of the school, so this isn't a complaint, but worth noting that the parent requirement is REAL and I'd say somewhat intensive depending on your "role." I underestimated this well is something worth considering. I often wondered if the model could support a single-parent household or non-traditional family structures, as it took us tag-teaming to do it justice with a very...

Our family has had a wonderful experience at GPC! The small setting creates a special dynamic where every child feels seen and supported. The head teacher, Ms. Jenny, is truly exceptional—her dedication, patience, and passion for early childhood education shine through in everything she does.

The mixed-age classroom is a huge benefit, allowing younger kids to learn from older peers while older children build leadership skills. It’s especially great for kids born a little after the kindergarten cutoff, giving them the chance to grow alongside older role models while receiving age-appropriate support.

One of the most special aspects of this school is the parent involvement. Being “Parent of the Day” gives us the unique opportunity to be part of our child’s learning experience, see the teachers in action, and connect with the school community in a meaningful way.

We feel so lucky to be part of this school and highly...

With 3 children and five years at Garden Preschool, I can tell you that this has been an incomparable place for our children's early years. The progressive curriculum, emphasis on global issues (from multiculturalism to the environment), and focus on the whole child have tremendously enriched our children's lives and sensibilities (even ten years later). In a true cooperative sense, parents are collaboratively involved in nearly every aspect, and have the opportunity to spend time with their child and their child's peers in the classroom, on the playground and on field trips, which is special for both the kids...