Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Play-Based Preschool & Young Kindergarten in Pittsford, NY
Pittsford Nursery School has been a cornerstone of early childhood education since 1952, dedicated to fostering joyful, play-based learning in a safe, nurturing community. Our semi-cooperative model actively involves families as partners in their children's growth, emphasizing social, emotional, intellectual, and physical development. With over 50 years of combined teaching experience, our certified staff creates personalized learning environments that adapt to each child's unique needs. We prioritize hands-on exploration, minimal classroom transitions, and inclusive spaces that welcome therapists and support professionals. Our facilities feature dedicated classrooms, a modern playground, and an indoor activity room designed for large motor play.Since our founding, we have maintained a commitment to sparking a lifelong love of learning while preparing children for kindergarten success. Our programs blend experienced educators with flexible family involvement, ensuring a supportive transition into formal education. We serve children aged two through five, offering tailored classes that accommodate developmental milestones and family schedules. Our community-centered approach strengthens bonds between students, families, and the broader Pittsford area. Through field trips, enrichment programs, and summer camps, we extend learning beyond traditional classroom boundaries.
Services
Twos Class
Threes Class
5-Day Fours Class
Young Kindergarten
Afternoon Enrichment
Summer Camp
Field Trips
Therapist Collaboration
Parent Involvement Programs
Curriculum Development
Details
- Year established: 1952
Highlights and features
- We offer play-based learning since 1952 with experienced educators
- Our semi-cooperative model actively involves families in education
- We maintain 3:1 student-teacher ratios for personalized attention
- Our facilities include dedicated classrooms and modern playgrounds
- We provide specialized programs for developmental milestones
What people say
Genuinely care about well-being
Active role in education
Helpful with developmental delays
Embraces therapist collaboration
Comfortable surroundings for children
Services
Twos Class
Our Twos Class introduces children to structured learning through play-based exploration. With a 3:1 student-teacher ratio, we focus on developing independence, motor skills, and socialization. The program accommodates 9 students per session with certified teachers and family helpers. This 2-day weekly program runs September-May with flexible scheduling options.
Young Kindergarten
Young Kindergarten prepares children for formal schooling with academic and social foundations. Certified educators implement developmentally appropriate curricula emphasizing literacy, numeracy, and cooperation. The program accommodates children with late birthdays or those needing additional preparation before traditional kindergarten, ensuring smooth educational transitions through personalized attention.
Afternoon Enrichment
Afternoon Enrichment extends learning through themed activities like Curious Minds and Little Athletes. These optional sessions develop literacy, science concepts, and motor skills in small groups. Programs run fall through spring with varying themes, including STEM exploration, art projects, and physical development activities. Each session includes supervised play and social skill development.
Therapist Collaboration
We welcome therapists and support professionals into our classrooms to address individual developmental needs. Our inclusive environment accommodates children with delays through customized support plans. Teachers collaborate with specialists to implement therapeutic strategies during regular classroom activities, ensuring comprehensive developmental support within social learning contexts.
Summer Camp
Summer Camp provides continued learning and socialization during school breaks. Our programs maintain small group sizes with certified staff, offering structured activities and free play. The curriculum emphasizes outdoor exploration, creative projects, and community building while maintaining safety protocols. Camp sessions integrate with our regular facility features including playgrounds and activity rooms.
People
Kathy Woodruff
Director
Director with New York State Certification in Elementary Education and 18+ years in early childhood education. Holds Master of Science in Literacy from SUNY Geneseo. Former teacher at PNCS and director of local childcare center. Committed to positive first schooling experiences.
Heather Ray
Twos Teacher
Lead teacher since 2021 with B.A. in Anthropology from Stony Brook University. Former classroom aide with extensive experience in early childhood development. Focuses on creating nurturing environments for 2-year-olds through structured play and exploration.
Carrie Gersh
Threes Teacher
Educator emphasizing independence development through play-based learning. Former engineering professional turned educator with personal experience navigating preschool transitions. Implements curriculum that balances structured activities with creative exploration for 3-4 year olds.
Kerry Mascia
Fours Teacher
Certified in Childhood Education and Teaching Students with Disabilities. Master's in Inclusive Education from Nazareth College. Specializes in creating developmentally appropriate curricula for 4-year-olds with diverse learning needs through hands-on, collaborative activities.
Megan Woods
Young Kindergarten Teacher
Lead teacher with Elementary Education degree from St. Bonaventure University. Former public school educator (K-3) with experience across multiple states. Focuses on kindergarten readiness through balanced academic and social-emotional development for 4.5-5 year olds.
Questions
What age requirements exist for enrollment?
Children must be 2 by December 1st for Twos Class. Programs available for ages 2-5 with specific requirements for each class level.
Are immunizations required?
Yes, all New York State required immunizations must be current with documentation provided to the director before school starts.
What happens when children are sick?
Children with fever, vomiting, or diarrhea must stay home for 24 hours after symptoms cease without medication. Doctor's notes required for persistent symptoms.
How does the cooperative model work?
Parents assist in classrooms and school activities for cooperative classes. Buyout options available. Families serve on committees to support school operations.
What special programs are offered?
Afternoon Enrichment sessions include Curious Minds (STEM), Little Athletes (motor skills), and Fabulous Friday Friends (social development) during fall, winter, and spring terms.
Is potty training required?
We encourage potty training for 3s and 4s classes but understand developmental differences. Teachers provide guidance and support during the process.
