Preschool and Pre-K
The Valley Way
Preschool and Pre-K at The Valley School are warm, play-based years where childhood leads and learning takes root.
Children move through imaginative play, stories and songs, hands-on projects, and generous outdoor time in our “second classroom” playground. The year is built around themes that children love, turning curiosity into early literacy and math skills. The weekly rhythm includes Specialist classes in Spanish, science, performing arts, and plenty of PE. Children benefit from both the play-focused curriculum and the opportunities to be a part of the larger school community for regular activities like All School Meeting and the Climate March.
A Small, Joyful Start With Big Impact
Days feel home-like and adventurous. Children build, pretend, sing, and investigate indoors and outside while teachers surface early literacy and numeracy through projects kids love. The playground invites deep, focused play and big-muscle movement. Neighborhood walks and simple bus rides help the city feel friendly. Children finish the year confident, more verbal, and ready for what comes next.
Play Builds Communication, Confidence, and Community
Days feel home-like and adventurous. Children build, pretend, sing, and investigate indoors and outside while teachers surface early literacy and numeracy through projects kids love. The playground invites deep, focused play and big-muscle movement. Neighborhood walks and simple bus rides help the city feel friendly. Children finish the year confident, more verbal, and ready for what comes next.
Sample Schedule
Arrival: 8:15-8:30 a.m.
Dismissal: 3:20 p.m.
Extended Care Available: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m
| 8:30 | Recess and Morning Meeting |
| 9:00 | Reading Groups |
| 9:30 | Snack and Recess |
| 10:15 | Literacy Stations and Phonics |
| 11:15 | Math |
| 12:00 | Lunch and Recess |
| 1:00 | Rest |
| 1:30 | Specialist Classes |
| 2:00 | Social Studies / Theme Work |
| 2:30 | Choice Play |
| 3:00 | Closing Circle |
Generous Outdoor Time
Long, twice daily outdoor blocks help children sink into deep, focused play that supports self-regulation and resilience. During multiple P.E. classes each week, children practice balance, coordination, and teamwork. They learn to negotiate rules, include others, and resolve conflicts, and they carry these skills with them throughout school and life.
