MISSION STATEMENT
KINS is a community preschool that provides a stimulating and challenging discovery-based curriculum taught by warm, nurturing early childhood professionals who function in a developmentally appropriate environment. The curriculum blends secular and Judaic programming, providing a range of “hands-on” learning experiences while appreciating each child’s individual needs. The school promotes traditional Jewish values and customs, engaging each child through her/his senses as s/he explores the beauties of the holidays and Shabbat.

PHILOSOPHY
At KINS, children are given the opportunity to play, grow, develop, and learn in a safe, happy, caring and non-pressured environment. We seek to foster the growth of the whole child in all areas of development: social, emotional, physical, and intellectual. We strive to help each child develop in ways that emphasize individual dignity and self-worth. Children are treated with respect, and in turn they are asked to be respectful of others.

This school recognizes the importance of building constructive relationships: among children, between teacher and child, parent and child, and parent and teacher. Our program assists the family to grow together and gain confidence in a relaxed and caring atmosphere. Friendship skills, problem solving, conflict resolution, identification of feelings, and enhancement of self-esteem are thus built into our daily interactions.

Congregation Kehillath Israel is an inclusive Conservative synagogue and our program reflects the practices of Conservative Judaism. At KINS, children learn that Judaism means warm, happy times. We want them to know that their school is a special Jewish place, where they strengthen their Jewish identity, and experience the joys of being Jewish through festive and educational activities.

Our Jewish class environment informs the child that Judaism is an integral part of day-to-day life. Our environment sets a mood and a tone, enabling Judaism to become a part of the “given” of each child’s world. The Jewish elements of the surroundings arouse curiosity and stimulate discussion and interaction.

We encourage parents to join their children in learning at Kehillath Israel Nursery School through school and synagogue family education programs. Our hope is that while families learn together in a warm, supportive environment, they will feel empowered to incorporate celebrations and further learning at home.

Our environment is exceptionally well equipped and intellectually stimulating. Children are given opportunities to gain mastery and competence in many areas. Most importantly, we encourage children to progress at their own level of knowledge and interest without pressure.

The school permits children the luxury of being children, of having a good time, and of enjoying each other’s company. We believe that as educators and parents we have an awesome responsibility, but what a rewarding way to share a life!