The Best Preschools in Port Murray, NJ
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Port Murray. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
The Goddard School of Washington
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Washington is a highly-rated preschool located approximately 6 miles from Port Murray, serving families throughout Warren County. This facility operates year-round and offers a comprehensive play-based learning curriculum focused on academic, social, and emotional development. The school features state-certified teachers, low student-teacher ratios, and modern security systems including keypad entry. Their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) incorporates STEAM activities, sign language, and character development. Parents consistently praise the caring staff, clean facilities, and structured yet engaging learning environment.
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Kiddie Academy of Hackettstown
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Located about 8 miles from Port Murray, Kiddie Academy of Hackettstown provides educational child care with a structured curriculum that balances academic preparation and character development. Their Life Essentials® curriculum focuses on literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies through hands-on learning experiences. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. The academy employs qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials and maintains small class sizes. Parent reviews highlight the professional staff, engaging educational activities, and strong communication between teachers and families.
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Rainbow Academy Early Childhood Learning Center
Rainbow Academy
Rainbow Academy in Hackettstown, located approximately 7 miles from Port Murray, has served Warren County families for over two decades with a comprehensive early childhood education program. Their curriculum emphasizes school readiness through a balanced approach of structured learning and creative play. The center features purpose-built classrooms, secure facilities with surveillance systems, and nutritionally balanced meal programs. Special programs include music enrichment, physical education, and technology integration appropriate for young learners. The center maintains New Jersey state licensing and receives positive parent feedback for its experienced staff, safe environment, and effective preparation for elementary school.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Port Murray, NJ:
What is the typical cost of preschool in Port Murray, NJ, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
In Port Murray and the surrounding Warren County area, preschool tuition can range from approximately $800 to $1,500 per month, depending on the program's hours and curriculum. For financial assistance, New Jersey's state-funded preschool program is typically for lower-income districts, so local private options may offer scholarships or sliding scales. It's also worth checking if your employer offers dependent care flexible spending accounts (FSAs) to use pre-tax dollars for tuition.
How do I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Port Murray?
All licensed preschools in New Jersey, including those in Port Murray, are regulated by the Department of Children and Families (DCF), Office of Licensing. You can verify a program's license status and review any inspection reports on the DCF website. Additionally, look for programs accredited by national organizations like NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children), which indicates a higher standard of quality beyond state minimums.
What are the main types of preschool programs available in the Port Murray area?
Port Murray families typically have access to private, faith-based preschools, Montessori programs, and cooperative preschools, often found in nearby towns like Hackettstown or Washington. Given the rural nature of the area, many programs are part of larger child care centers or family child care homes. The local public school district, Mansfield Township School District, may offer limited preschool options, so exploring neighboring communities is common.
When should I start applying for preschools in Port Murray, and what is the typical enrollment process?
Due to limited slots in this region, it's advisable to start researching and contacting preschools a full year before your desired start date, ideally in the fall prior. The enrollment process usually involves a tour, submission of an application with a fee, and often a waitlist. Many programs in Warren County follow a school-year calendar (September to June), so key enrollment periods are often in the winter and spring.
What should I look for regarding safety and outdoor play at a Port Murray preschool?
Given Port Murray's semi-rural setting, inquire about playground safety, fencing, and supervision protocols for outdoor play. A quality program will have a secure, age-appropriate outdoor space and clear policies for weather-related decisions. Also, ask about their emergency preparedness plans for scenarios specific to the area, such as severe winter weather or how they handle interactions with local wildlife occasionally found in more rural parts of New Jersey.
Nearby Cities
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