Welcome to Perry Park Preschool
The Perry Park Preschool of the Groveland Congregational Church is open to enrollment for all children 2 years 10 months to 5 years of age, regardless of race, cultural heritage, national origin, marital status, religion, political beliefs, or sexual orientation of their parents. Physically challenged children and children with disabilities are accepted; however, the building is not wheelchair accessible. The school operates in accordance with all licensing requirements for group day care centers established by the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
History
In 1947, the former Mother’s Club of the Church established a kindergarten, which it ran for 26 years. With the enactment of state legislation mandating public kindergartens, the Mother’s Club disbanded its kindergarten in June 1973. The present school was established in September 1973 as an educational mission of the Church, and was renamed Perry Park Preschool in April 1974.
Philosophy
Perry Park Preschool provides a developmentally appropriate program that, through individual and group activities, allows each child to grow socially, emotionally, cognitively, and physically — at their own pace, in a safe learning environment.
Licensing
Perry Park is licensed by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (Northeast Regional Office, 360 Merrimack Street, Bldg. 9, 3rd Floor, Lawrence, MA — 978-681-9684), and adheres to 606 CMR 7.00 standards.
Parent Involvement
We believe in a true partnership between Perry Park Preschool and our families. Parents are welcome to visit classrooms at any time, and open communication is essential to a successful preschool experience.
Intake Procedures
Families wishing to enroll schedule a visit with the Director to tour the school and discuss philosophy and goals. Enrollment is confirmed with a completed registration form and non-refundable registration fee. Families receive a full registration packet at orientation, exchanged for the Parent Handbook, School Directory, and Policies.
Curriculum
Our hands-on, theme-based curriculum includes blocks, dramatic play, puzzles, creative art, music, writing, and library time. We do not teach religious education. Our goal is to nurture active, curious learners with strong social skills and high self-esteem.
Class Schedules
Morning sessions run Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–12:00 PM. Families may choose 2, 3, or 4 mornings per week. Classes run from September through early June. Children must be 2 years 9 months old by August 31st to attend.
Tuition (2026–2027 School Year)
A 10% sibling discount applies when two or more children attend simultaneously.
Lunch Bunch (12:00–1:00 PM) and Extended Day (until 2:00 PM) are available Tuesday–Friday: $14/day and $30/day respectively (minimum 4 children required).
Tuition is payable through Brightwheel, in full or 10 equal monthly payments. The first payment is due June 1st (non-refundable). Remaining installments are due the 1st of each month, September through May 1, 2027. A $15 late fee applies after the 15th. Tuition must be paid in full by May 1st to participate in graduation and year-end activities. No refunds for holidays, illness, snow days, or closings.
Withdrawal
At least two weeks’ written notice is required. Enrollment is for the full school year; tuition remains due regardless of withdrawal. Tuition insurance is recommended.
Brightwheel Communication & Billing
Brightwheel is our primary platform for updates, messages, photos, billing, and payments. Please keep your account current.
School Closings
Perry Park follows Pentucket School District closing decisions. On delayed openings, Perry Park opens at 10:45 AM (class runs 10:45 AM–12:30 PM, snack provided). Lunch Bunch/Extended Day families remain open until 2:00 PM. Closings are announced via TV and Brightwheel. Days lost are not made up.
Calendar
Classes begin the week after Labor Day and end in early June, generally following the Pentucket School District calendar with some modifications. A complete calendar is provided at orientation.
Parent-Teacher Communication
We welcome parent input at all times via the Preschool Committee, Director, or your child’s teacher. Scheduled conferences occur in January; progress reports are sent home in December and May.
Transportation, Arrival & Departure
Parents or designees are responsible for transportation. Children remain the parent’s responsibility until signed in and greeted by a teacher. A late pickup fee of $10 applies per 5-minute period after a 5-minute grace period. Arrival occurs at the playground behind the church (weather permitting); please drive at 5 mph in the lot and turn RIGHT on exit. All children must be properly secured per the Massachusetts Child Passenger Safety Law.
Information for a Successful School Year
Behavior Management
Our approach is rooted in safety, respect, positive redirection, and logical consequences. There are no designated time-out chairs; time away from the group is limited and parents are notified. Corporal punishment, humiliation, food deprivation, and toileting-related discipline are strictly prohibited.
Health & Safety Policies
A signed physical form is required annually. Children should stay home with fever (100°F+), vomiting/diarrhea, unresolved rashes, heavy cold symptoms, lice (until treated), or communicable diseases. Children may return 24 hours fever-free (without medication) or 24 hours after starting antibiotics.
Medication Policy
Requires a doctor’s note/pharmacy label and signed parental consent. Staff cannot administer expired medication, medication outside its original container, or a first-ever dose.
Staff as Mandated Reporters
Staff are legally required to report suspected abuse or neglect to the Department of Social Services (M.G.L. Chapter 119, Section 51A).
Toileting
Children are supervised at all times and encouraged to use the toilet at key transition points. Staff wear gloves when assisting and never discipline around toileting. Toilet training is not required for enrollment.
Termination/Suspension Policy
Enrollment may be terminated for non-payment (2+ consecutive months), safety concerns, uncooperative parent conduct, or unmet special needs — always following a documented, collaborative process with families.
Referral Policy
If a teacher has developmental or behavioral concerns, a meeting is held with the Director and parents, with optional referral to local specialists (with written consent).
Local Resources
Perry Park Preschool · 978-374-6678 · perryparkpreschool@gmail.com
