Rockport, MA

Rockport Community Nursery School is a highly-regarded nonprofit preschool serving the Rockport community for over four decades. The school offers a play-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum that emphasizes social, emotional, and cognitive development. Their experienced teachers create a nurturing environment where children learn through hands-on activities, creative arts, and outdoor exploration. The school maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios and focuses on building strong foundational skills through a balanced approach of structured and free play. Parents consistently praise the warm, family-like atmosphere and the dedicated, long-tenured teaching staff who provide individualized attention to each child.

Pathways for Children is a comprehensive early education and care organization serving Cape Ann families, including Rockport residents. With NAEYC accreditation and a 4-star QRIS rating, Pathways offers high-quality educational programs from infancy through school age. Their research-based curriculum focuses on whole-child development, incorporating literacy, math, science, and social-emotional learning. The center features highly qualified teachers with bachelor's degrees and specialized early childhood training, modern facilities with age-appropriate learning environments, and nutritious meal programs. Pathways is particularly noted for their inclusive approach and strong parent partnership model, with many Rockport families utilizing their before/after school transportation services.

The Community Nursery School of Gloucester has been serving Cape Ann families, including Rockport residents, for over six decades with exceptional early childhood education. This parent-cooperative preschool emphasizes a child-centered approach that balances structured learning with creative exploration. Their experienced teaching team holds advanced degrees in early childhood education and maintains low student-teacher ratios. The curriculum focuses on developing social skills, independence, and kindergarten readiness through hands-on learning centers, literacy activities, and outdoor play. The school's historic building features bright, well-equipped classrooms and an expansive outdoor play area. Parents consistently highlight the strong sense of community, excellent teacher communication, and the seamless transition children make to Rockport Elementary School.