Our little school by the sea was founded in 1994 by a group of parents from Calvary Episcopal Church who wanted to create a "dream preschool."   They believed that complementary teaching philosophies, including Waldorf, Montessori, and Reggio Emilia approaches, would provide a well-rounded curriculum, allowing each child the opportunity for hands-on learning in an inspiring educational environment.  In addition, adopting the values of faith, hope, love, service, and forgiveness were important in providing children with the basis upon which they interact and go forward in the world.  While the school has evolved from its early days, it has remained steadfast in honoring and embodying the school’s founding philosophies and traditions, and they profoundly influence the culture of Calvary Nursery School to this very day.  

 

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Play

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The importance of play cannot be overstated.  At Calvary, teachers thoughtfully guide children through opportunities for exploration and adventure that reflect children’s interests.  Ongoing collaboration among teachers – and between teachers and students—fosters meaningful dialogue, deep engagement, and a lifelong love of learning.  

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Natural Aesthetics & Appreciation for Nature

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Because young children so deeply imitate and absorb their surroundings, at Calvary, special care is taken to create an environment that is beautiful, harmonious and secure. We keep the natural aesthetic in all that we do; from the use of simple hand crafted toys in the classroom to placing importance on the outdoor environment and the traditional celebrations of seasonal holidays. 

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Cultivating Confidence

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A predictable daily and weekly rhythm is established at the beginning of the school year to help children feel secure and in control. As the year progresses, a change in the daily activity requires a class vote. This is the start of the children learning about their civic duty.   

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New England Science and Sailing

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The partnership between NESS and Calvary is a natural intertwining of NESS' four core values of Inclusiveness, Experiential Learning, Personal Growth and Stewardship and Calvary's focus on creating an awareness and appreciation for the natural world and our role within it. 

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Enrichment 

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Weekly Music & Movement and Chapel time are included for all children, among many other enrichment opportunities such as, yoga and mindfulness, community outings and special visits, and of course, many adventures in the historic Stonington Borough.

 

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Our Goals

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• To foster in each child a lively sense of wonder and joy in discovering the world.

• To establish an atmosphere of respect for self, others and the environment.

• To foster an atmosphere where children feel enthusiasm and responsibility for work and self-directed play.

• To provide ample opportunity to relate to the natural world and to the people and work of the town around us.

• To provide meaningful activities where process is more important than product.

• To support the child's imaginative life and inner spirituality through story, song and celebration.

• To be supportive of parents, encouraging growth and involvement, and honest communication.