For Parents
We’re so glad you’re considering The Palmer School for your child’s early learning journey. We welcome prospective families to schedule a tour with our Director, where you’ll have the opportunity to explore our classrooms, meet our teachers, and learn more about our nurturing, play-based approach to early education. Children are welcome to join the visit and experience the environment firsthand.
If you decide to move forward, you can complete the registration form and submit it with a non-refundable registration fee. Enrollment is based on availability, and if a space is not immediately open, your child will be placed on our waiting list for the next available spot.
Below you’ll find helpful resources including our current registration form, school calendar, and answers to frequently asked questions. If you have any additional questions, we’re here to help every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is your Teacher to Student ratios?
A. Infants 1:4
Toddlers 1:4 (12 months – 18 months)
Toddlers 1:6 (18 months – 2 ½ years)
Preschool 1:10 (2 ½ years – 4 years)
PreK 1:12 (4 years – 5 years)
Q. What curriculum does The Palmer School follow.
A. The Palmer School follows Creative Curriculum which is an educational approach that integrates the arts, creativity, and hands on learning activities into daily lessons to promote critical thinking skills.
Q. Does The Palmer School offer part-time schedules or just full-time?
A. Yes, The Palmer School part-time schedules. There is a nursery school schedule available from 9:00am-1:00pm for children 3 and older. The school also offers the option of enrollment of 2, 3, or 4 days with a minimum of 2 days for any age.
Q. Is there a discount for enrolling more than one child attending at the same time?
A. Yes. A 10% multi-child discount is offered off the lower tuition amount,
Q. Are there enrichment programs?
A. Yes. We offer a variety of programs requiring sign-up permission slips and payments to the providers. Examples are Jr. Sports and the Nature Club.
Q. Is The Palmer School open year-round?
A. Yes. The Palmer School operates a full-time schedule starting the school year September 1st – August 31st. The school does close for most major holidays plus an extended break the week between Christmas and New Years and the last week of August through Labor Day.
Q. Does The Palmer School offer a summer program?
A. The Palmer School has a summer camp available in July and August for students enrolled in the school. See our Events Page for a sample of the specific events offered.
Q. Does The Palmer School provide meals, snacks, and/or beverages?
A. No. Parents are required to provide a morning and an afternoon snack along with a lunch, including beverages. Wednesdays, pizza is available for an additional cost.
Q. Faith and Community at Our School
A. Our school is affiliated with the Bernardsville United Methodist Church and guided by a Board of Directors who are active members of the church community. While we do not include religious instruction in our daily classroom curriculum, our program reflects the values and traditions of our faith-based partnership.
We celebrate a variety of holidays and cultural traditions throughout the year. These celebrations may include visits from Santa and the Easter Bunny, lighting a menorah, and learning about the many ways families share joy and kindness during special seasons.
Our annual Christmas Pageant is a beloved tradition. The older children reenact the story of Baby Jesus, and all classes participate through singing Christmas and holiday songs. This event provides an opportunity for our students to experience community, creativity, and celebration.
As part of our connection with the church, the Pastor leads a short Bible Time session twice each month. These 15–20 minute lessons focus on themes such as friendship, kindness, and making good choices. Children walk with their teachers and classmates to the church for this time together. Bible Time is an integral part of our program and participation is expected of all students.
Ready to Start?
Fill out the application today!
