At Saint Mary’s Nursery School (SMNS), our preschool program welcomes children ages 3–5 into three vibrant, play-filled classrooms. Our professional teaching teams draw on the Reggio-Emilia spirit to design engaging activities that center children’s interests and support their holistic development. Being located on the edge of the University of Pennsylvania’s campus, we have access to a variety of greenspaces and prioritize the exploration of nature throughout the year. This location also contributes to the great diversity in our families who join us from both local and international communities, and we take great pride in honoring the cultures of our students, staff, and families.
Children may enroll once they turn 3 years old, and we offer rolling enrollment throughout the year as space allows. Once they join, they remain with the same class all year—building strong friendships, developing routines, and feeling the comfort of a consistent learning space. Our center is open from 8:00am to 6:00pm with exact hours depending on the contract, offering a full day of exploration, creativity, and growth. Half-day spots may be available depending on space, but priority goes to full-time families. Enrollment is 5 days a week.
A Typical Day at SMNS (times may vary slightly by class):
8:00am – Arrival & free play
10:00am – Morning snack
10:20am – Circle time
11:00am – Outdoor exploration and play
12:00pm – Lunch
1:00pm – Rest/nap time
3:00pm – Afternoon snack
3:20pm – Storytime, music, or small group activities
4:00pm – Outdoor time & pick-up
Every day is an adventure! Children create hands-on art, act out stories in dramatic play, make music, explore science experiments, dig into sensory play, and spend plenty of time outdoors. While they’re having fun, they’re also developing social skills, emotional resilience, and early academic abilities—learning naturally through play.
We use The Creative Curriculum® by Teaching Strategies, a nationally respected program aligned with Pennsylvania’s Early Learning Standards, to ensure that our playful days also have a strong educational foundation.
Family Involvement: We love having parents and caregivers as part of our school community! Our co-op program offers a $120 monthly tuition discount in exchange for 8 volunteer hours. (Background checks are required.)
Meals & Snacks: Snacks are included in tuition. Families can choose to pack their child’s lunch or join our lunch program for $95/month, which can be canceled with proper notice.
PHLpreK Enrollment: Families looking for PHLpreK can apply directly through the City of Philadelphia’s website. While PHLpreK is free and city-funded, space is limited. Current SMNS families receive priority, and new families may join our waitlist.
Subsidy Tuition Assistance: SMNS accepts payments from Child Care Works, PHLpreK, the Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC/CCIS), and the Department of Human Services (DHS). Families must apply directly to these agencies for subsidy approval.
Enrollment Process: Applications are submitted via Brightwheel with a $60 application fee. Once submitted, you’re welcome to call our office at 215-386-0321 for updates. Families are encouraged to check in regularly to show continued interest.
Deposit: A deposit equal to one month’s tuition is required to secure a spot. This deposit will be applied to the final month’s tuition if a 60-day written notice of withdrawal is provided. Failing to begin enrollment or withdrawing before the scheduled start date will result in forfeiture of the deposit.
