In 1958 a letter went out to a special segment of the Chappaqua community. It began as follows:
"As parents of a pre-school child you will be interested in an important new educational opportunity for your child. The Lutheran Church of Our Redeemer, Chappaqua, recognizing an urgent need for a top quality nursery school in New Castle, is pleased to announce the establishment of The Village Nursery School for three and four year olds."
From the beginning the mission of the school was clear: a non-profit, non-denominational school open to the entire community, which would prepare children for, but "not compete with the kindergarten program of the Chappaqua School District." The school's name was chosen from a list of possibilities including King Street Nursery School, Greeley Nursery School, and even Hansel and Gretel Nursery School. The first director was a highly qualified woman named Metha Wagner. Ms. Wagner and each of the highly qualified directors since has left her own indelible mark on the school. Our current director, Ruth Swetonic, has more than fifteen years on the job.
The church members responsible for Village's strong foundation took their job very seriously. They found the perfect setting: the "undercroft" of the church building at 120 King Street, and set about applying for all the proper licensing. The school received New York State Certification each and every year since then.
Much has changed and much remains the same:
- Tuition was $300 per year in 1958. It is somewhat higher for the current school year but is still quite a competitive fee and one which guarantees a high quality preschool experience.
- The Meeting House (at 300 King Street) was purchased in 1962 and became the building for the four year olds.
- a program for two year olds was a welcome addition in 1994.
Classes at Village remain small and the school retains its "family" atmosphere. Parents say, "It's homey here," and "Village has a very good environment for my child's first school experience." Indeed many families send siblings and remain with us for ten or twelve years. To sum up --- in values, priorities and staff, Village Nursery School was and is... state-of-the-heart. |
