Nursery School
Nursery School

Welcome to the Temple Shaaray Tefila Nursery School!

The Nursery School began in the fall of 1993 and has been a thriving place of learning and exploration for children, providing them with an experiential and creative learning environment that fosters growth and development. Our dynamic and experienced teaching team recognizes children as individuals with varied strengths, abilities, and interests and develops a child-centered curriculum rich in the Reggio-Emilia philosophy. Our curriculum and teaching philosophy allow for the children to construct their own learning in a deep and meaningful way. Fostering children’s curiosity and giving them room to negotiate with their peers within an environment that enables them to grow and successfully transition into kindergarten is a cornerstone of our program.

Interwoven into the curriculum and throughout the school year are Jewish rituals and traditions. We learn about holidays in an age-appropriate hands-on way and celebrate Shabbat each Friday with a school-wide Shabbat sing-along. Interaction with the clergy, both with the rabbis and the cantors, is an integral part of the children’s curriculum as they make their first connections with Judaism.

As a former teacher for 20 years, one of my favorite things to do is to visit the classrooms, get to know the children, and learn about what they’re doing each day. My door is always open to parents, whether they want to chat and catch up, need help navigating the exmissions process, or need support and guidance when dealing with a difficult situation.

I look forward to meeting with you and sharing all the wonderful aspects of our school and temple community.

Warm regards,

Bonnie Blanco

Early Childhood Director

Learn more about…

Exmissions

The exmissions process is a partnership between Bonnie and you, our Nursery School parents. The spring before your child enters Pre-K, you’ll attend a group meeting outlining the Kindergarten admissions process. Bonnie then follows up by scheduling individual meetings to discuss goals for your school search. Together, you’ll compile a list of appropriate schools and are encouraged to attend spring tours. In the fall, you’ll reconnect with Bonnie to share ideas and check in on your final school list. Bonnie’s door is always open, and she is here for you every step of the way.

At Temple Shaaray Tefila Nursery School, we understand that this process is not one-size-fits-all, tailoring our approach to your family’s needs. We share a common goal, and together we’ll find a school that’s a fit for your child and you.

See which schools our graduates have attended over the last five years…
Independent Schools Admissions Association of Greater New York