How many classrooms does MCNS have? How many teachers are in each classroom?
There are three classrooms and four classes including the Afternoon Group. There are four teachers in each classroom. Additionally, other adults in the classroom may include student teachers, visiting child psychiatric fellows and pediatric residents.
What curriculum does MCNS subscribe to?
The curriculum utilizes materials and methods as they best suit young children’s needs and interests. Children participate in a variety of individual and group activities. Strong emphasis is placed upon exploration and discovery, development of personal satisfaction, independence, self management skills and motivation. In addition, focus is placed on each child’s relationship with his/her peers and with teaching adults in the classroom.
What are the teachers’ qualifications? How long have they been at MCNS?
All Head Teachers are fully qualified Early Childhood professionals with Masters Degrees. Most Assistant Teachers have acquired the minimum of a Bachelors Degree. Almost all of our teachers have been with us for at least five years.
What is the classroom daily schedule?
Each classroom has its daily schedule posted. The daily schedule includes guided classroom activities, outside play time, and Specialists. For Full Day children, nap time takes place from 1:30pm to 2:30pm. Children who may need a few extra minutes of rest time will be the last ones to wake up. Eventually, all children adjust to the nap schedule, and teachers make adjustments as needed.
When is MCNS in Session?
MCNS is open five day per week from September through June. There is a modified schedule for Half-day children during the winter and spring break. Special arrangements can be made with the school for an added fee. We offer a summer camp program during July and August.
How many days per week can my child attend MCNS?
We encourage a full week program so that all children may experience the full complement of all aspects of the program. This includes all specialists and other special activities and events in the school.
When is drop-off/pick-up?
The school opens at 8:00am and closes at 5:30pm. The classroom daily schedule is well on the way by 9:00am. We encourage all children to be in school by that time.
What is the youngest age that MCNS accepts?
Children must be two years old in September when school starts.
Where do children go from MCNS?
Children go onto a variety of schools after MCNS. This includes NYC public school and independent schools. The Director works directly with parents to support and guide them through the admission process.
Who makes up the student body at MCNS?
MCNS serves a diverse students population, which includes children from the community and reflects NYC’s ethnic racial, religious and social milieu.
What does it mean to be affiliated with Columbia University?
MCNS is one of nine University subsidized programs for young children. MCNS is considered an affiliate of the Columbia University Medical Center. Families affiliated with the various constituents of the Medical Center are given preference during the enrollment process.
When do I submit and application? What are the admission dates for MCNS? When will I hear back?
MCNS begins to accept applications (for programs beginning in September of the following year) by September 1st. Applications usually are processed on a “first come, first-served” basis, but preferences are given to those for children and families affiliated with Columbia University, New York Presbyterian Hospital, the New York State Psychiatric Institute and siblings. It is important to remember that submitting an application does not guarantee admission into the school. MCNS is part of the ISAAGNY network of schools (Independent School Admission Association of Greater New York) and follows all ISAAGNY deadlines. These deadlines vary slightly from year to year, but generally all acceptance letters are mailed by MCNS in early March. Acceptance decisions are due back to MCNS by mid-March.
What are the tuition rates?
See tuition schedules listed separately.
Does MCNS offer financial aid?
MCNS is able to offer limited financial aid awarded according to need. Financial aid application can be found on the school’s website and are due on February 1st.
How does MCNS encourage Parent Involvement?
Parents are encouraged to volunteer and participate in the life of the school. Parents can assist during special classroom events, and share special talents they may have. Parents are also encouraged to participate in special fund-raising events that take place throughout the school year. Information about all special school activities/events are listed in the school’s monthly newsletter.
How do parents communicate with teachers?
Group teachers can be reached by telephone, e-mail, spontaneous chats at drop-off or pick-up times, and more formally during parent-teacher conferences scheduled three times per year. Parents may request a conference at any time with Group Teachers.
