Preschool
The EJRP Preschool was established in 2009 to meet the growing need for quality early education for the children in our community. The EJRP Preschool Program provides a quality preschool experience, at an affordable price, right in the center of the City. Located at the beautiful and historic Park Street School, we provide a full-day, year-round, STARS accredited, licensed preschool program. With an established tradition of providing quality childcare and enrichment programs, we are committed to creating a safe, engaging environment in which 2-5-year-old children learn to explore, work independently and in large groups, communicate effectively, problem-solve and truly care for one another. Our program’s mission is to provide quality early education that fosters the growth of all children encourages the connection between home and school and supports our local community. Our three classrooms: Adventurers (2/3 room) Explorers (3/4 room) and Discoverers classrooms (4/5 room) are located at Park Street School, providing a unique opportunity for children to progress from one year to the next as they prepare socially, emotionally, and educationally for kindergarten. We are dedicated to promoting your child’s learning and development in order to successfully prepare them for school.
To set up an appointment or to inquire about available preschool space, please email Christina McLaughlin, Preschool Director, at cmclaughlin@ejrp.org.
EJRP Preschool is an Early Learning Partner with various school districts and is pre-qualified for Act 166. This benefit offers families financial assistance towards school-year tuition. Financial assistance is also available to qualified families through Child Care Resource (863-3367).
EJRP Preschool Offers:
- Play-based, emergent curriculum
- Socialization skills
- Positive educational and learning environment
- Fun, educational field trips to extend learning
- Caring, nurturing staff
- Low staff to child ratios
- Full-year coverage
- Convenient Essex Junction locations
- Licensed by the state of Vermont Child Development Division
To stay updated with our classroom adventures, please check out our classroom blogs:
Program Details
OUR LOCATION: We are located in the heart of Essex Junction at Park Street School, 21 Park Street. Built in 1873, this traditional schoolhouse offers warm, creative classroom environments and a wonderful green space to grow and play.
REGISTRATION: An appointment with the Preschool Director is required prior to registering. After an appointment, there is a $50 per child, non-refundable registration fee for all families that do not qualify for Childcare Financial Assistance. Please email Christina McLaughlin, Preschool Director, at cmclaughlin@ejrp.org to set up an appointment.
AGE: 2-5 years old, child must be 2, 3 or 4 by September 1
DATE: Monday-Friday, year-round
TIME: 7:30am-5:00pm (Explorers 3/4 and Discovers 4/5); 8:00am-4:00pm (Adventurers 2/3)
FEE: Please contact us for the current weekly tuition rates for City of Essex Junction residents and non-residents
We are pre-qualified for Act 166, which allows us to partner with local school districts so that families can benefit from financial assistance towards your school-year tuition.
Our Teachers
Christina McLaughlin - Preschool Director and 4/5 Head Teacher - My name is Christina McLaughlin and I am both the Director of EJRP Preschool and the head teacher in our Discoverers classroom (4/5 room). I grew up in Essex Junction, graduated from EHS, and attended Champlain College for both undergrad and grad school. I have a BA in Elementary Education and recently earned my M.Ed in Early Childhood Education. I have worked in preschool and kindergarten classrooms for nearly 25 years and have directed the EJRP Preschool Program since its conception in 2009. It has been an absolute privilege and honor to watch the children in our community grow over the years! Our dedicated teaching team invites children to utilize a play-based, emergent curriculum to pique their curiosity, engage in hands-on exploration, and discover new skills within child-led experiences. We believe it takes a village to raise good humans and we are so grateful to share this journey with you!
Amy McCaffrey - 3/4 Head Teacher- My educational philosophy is to create a learning environment that is fun and exciting. I want to inspire my children to want to learn more about themselves and the world around them. My role during this formative time of a child's brain development is essential. Early learning experiences are a crucial factor for emotional, intellectual, cognitive, social and physical development. I began my career working with children when I owned my in home, registered daycare. Once I had my two children, I decided that I wanted to work outside the house, and with infants. During my time working with infants, I received my CDA. I then felt it was time to move on and challenge myself more, really feeling the drive to work with and shape the minds of preschoolers. This profession requires total dedication, devotion and a loving commitment, all of which I have!
Stacey DiVenere- 3/4 Assistant Teacher- Hi, I am Stacey DiVenere, I am excited to join EJRP’s EJRP Pre-school team of enthusiastic, creative and consistent educators. I strive to build positive and compassionate relationships with children and families. As Essex natives, My husband and I are raising two daughters, 4 and 7 here in the village. We value the community and all that it has to offer! I look forward to meeting you!
Crystal Hendry -2/3 Head Teacher - With over six years of experience, amongst various age groups, I joined the EJRP teaching team in 2015. As an Essex resident I love living and working within this community. I believe children learn best through hands- on experience and play, while incorporating structured activities/ games within the classroom. During my time in the classroom, I get to experience their excitement alongside them, watch friendships flourish, engage in play, and watch each child grow and mature through their time in preschool. With two active children I spend a majority of my free time at various sporting events. From a gymnastic meet, to a softball field, a volleyball match, or a cheer competition my children keep me very busy!
Maddy Norway- 2/3 Assistant Teacher- Hello! My name is Maddy. I have always had a passion to work with children. I graduated from MMU High school in June of 2022 and decided to take on a career instead of jumping right into college. I have babysat for multiple families since I was 13 and have worked in childcare since I was 18. Seeing children’s creativity, innocence and growing minds daily brings me joy. I love teaching children to be the best version of themselves! In my free time I love to spend time reading, going for walks, relaxing in the sun, and spending time with my friends and family. I am excited to continue my journey here at EJRP preschool and continue to grow as a teacher.