Berkeley Parents Network: The Neighborhood School

Berkeley Parents Network

The Neighborhood School

Berkeley Parents Network > Reviews > Preschools > The Neighborhood School

Dec 2005

Hi, I wonder if any parents could comment on the Neighborhood Preschool in Kensington. I didn't see any recent emails about this school in the archives. Thanks! New Kensington Parent

We have two children, 6yr old boy and 3yr old girl. We've been Neighborhood parents since our son was 2 yrs. old. We love it there. Our children are very different in temperment and spirit and the teachers have been wonderful, encouraging and loving. Jill has been doing this a long time and I worked with her when I was in the recreation profession for many years prior to having children. I've always hoped my children could go to Neighborhood because of Jill's tender ways. Jill, Ginger and Stacey are very consistant and wonderful. Some other teachers have come and gone but the core teachers remain. A huge plus in the sense of community since they also provide after school care for the elementary school too. The transition to Kindergarten was easy because he got to see his preschool teacher every day (she is also at the elementary school after preschool is over)So my son is still involved with Neighborhood as many other graduates are and get to have the same specialized teachersand warm fuzzies. The preschool has tennis, yoga, music and drama- all fabulous instructors that come in an teach these specialities. I can't say enough good things about Neighborhood. My son aslo has a nut allergy and it's the only preschool I felt comfortable leaving him with. The staff understood and took our sitiuation (it's life threatening) seriously. Five years ago this wasn't the case with all preschools. If you need newsletters and written monthly summeries you won't get it here. You will get lots of one on one communication if you seek it, any time, any day. The staff is always available to talk, your child is always a priority. We love it. renee

Not sure if you were asking about the Neighborhood School (which is the after-care program for Kensington Hilltop elementary) or an actual Preschool, which if so, I know nothing about. If you're after info on the Neighborhood School, I have my kindergartener enrolled and have been very happy with the activities (tennis, art, etc..) the school sets up for the kids and the free play they have. All the students seem engaged with the teacher/caretakers, and I think their set-up which keeps the K and 1st grade students separate from the older grades is very reassuring. anon

All of my children have gone to the Neighborhood school. I like it very much, it is safe, warm and very sweet. I love that it is a tradtional pre-school- no extended hours. If you are looking to be involved, however this place is not for you. This is a drop off and go. I like that, but other people I know like the community of a co-op better. anon

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