Mary Kay McMillin Center Voted Favorite Preschool in Berkeley Heights

In Berkeley Heights, more residents voted for as the favorite preschool in town, , while came in second.

The school is part of the and was named after Mary Kay McMillin, the first principal of the Early Childhood Center at Hamilton Terrace when it opened its doors in 1998 and who passed away in September of 2008.

“We are very appreciative of this honor," said Principal Annie Corley-Hand. "In a time when educators are continuously under fire, it is wonderful that the staff at the Early Childhood Center is recognized for their commitment and dedication to Berkeley Heights youngest students."

The preschool's mission statement says that each child is unique, and development varies within age-related norms. Young children learn best through active engagement with their physical and social environments, a safe and nurturing environment promotes the optimal growth and development of each child and a caring community of learners can be established through relationships of mutual respect, shared responsibility, and open communication.

The MKM ECC staff provides a developmentally-appropriate program that implements best practices in early childhood education, Corley-Hand said. A strong community of learners, the school's staff continually seek ways to enhance teaching and provide educational experiences that are meaningful and relevant for all students.

“The fundraising efforts of an active Parent-Teacher Organization supports our efforts by purchasing materials and providing programs to enhance the curriculum,” Corley-Hand said.

Any child who resides in Berkeley Heights and turns five by October 1 is invited to register, while the preschool also provides programming for three-to-five-year-olds. 

A lottery to fill open slots is held each February for the following school year, she said. The district provides “courtesy busing” for every student registered at the Early Childhood Center and the district strives to keep to a class size policy of 20.  Corley-Hand said currently, the preschool's average 1st grade class size is 22 and Kindergarten class size is 18.  

While Corley-Hand said she has many busy days, she realizes how fortunate she is to be able to shape so many young lives.

“As Principal, my aim is to ensure that each child who enters our school is welcomed into a supportive environment," she explained. "Our Early Childhood team enthusiastically offers best-practice, innovative programs that address the learning and developmental needs of preschool, kindergarten, and first grade students. We are dedicated to creating a warm, nurturing environment for the district's youngest students.”