Nierman Pre-School

Our son started in Ms. Ester's class (also Spanish immersion teacher) and is now in the Explorers class. We have been really impressed by both classes. Teachers and aides are top-notch. The activities and projects they work on are stimulating and interesting. The leadership (Alma something) is also clearly superior with regards to caring, kindness, efficiency, and promoting a positive preschool environment. Security is taken seriously. And all you have to do is take a tour of the facilities to see how they outshine all other preschools in the area (including the more expensive ones in La Jolla!). Lots of opportunities for parent involvement. The only thing we'd change- we wish there was more inclusion of acknowledging Christian events (e.g., Christmas, Easter) via activities, instead of mainly focusing only on Jewish traditions/events.
--Submitted by a parent

My son started attending the summer camp strictly for Spanish Immersion last summer and we were so impressed with the facilities and the instructors that we took him out of The Children's School part-time and enrolled him full time at Nierman Preschool. The staff is amazing, lead by Alma Hadash-Geiger, who is very knowledgeable as well as compassionate and nurturing. A five star rating is not enough for this school. Although they say they do not focus on academics, my four year old is reading simple words thanks to them. He is also speaking Spanish after not even a full year of instruction. Our son is exposed daily to music, art and physical play as well as learning. Each week he works on the computer and I feel he is getting more like a Kindergarten education at this preschool. Also, security is top notch!!
--Submitted by a parent

Excellent preschool! My daughter had some separation anxiety issues. The teachers at JCC dealt with this right from the start by creating a nurturing, affectionate environment and made separation in the morning very easy from the first day. Our daughter loves the school. The developmental approach to teaching means there is no stress at all on her and therefore also on us. Teachers are experienced, caring, and they update us daily on every aspect of her progress, from learning to posture to manners. The school offers a (free) evaluation from a speech therapist. They make it possible for parents to interact with each other if they wish so. A very pleasant learning environment without too many of the rigid rules that are found in today's preschools.
--Submitted by a parent

My oldest son, who is now 8 and in second grade, attended this preschool. We now have our youngest attending, who is 4. Outstanding preschool. Facilities are first rate, clean and the staff is dedicated, nurturing and experienced. It is developmental, so children can start as young as 18 months which is ideal for working parents. Our oldest was so well prepared for kindergarten, we even thought about skipping him a grade. They do teach basic academics, but is by no means too academic where important things like playing, sharing, community are overlooked. Plenty of play-doh time! A very safe facility with lots of extras for enrichment.
--Submitted by a parent