Staten Island Academy

Early Childhood at Staten Island Academy: Where Joyful Learning Begins

The Preschool and Kindergarten years at Staten Island Academy are filled with joyful wonder, curiosity, and discovery. Our youngest learners explore the world around them through hands-on experiences that spark creativity and a lifelong love of learning. As they grow, children build independence and confidence by caring for themselves, their peers, and their classroom community.

Our Pre-K program is a mixed-age class for 3- and 4-year-olds, designed to meet each child where they are developmentally. In this nurturing environment, older students become leaders and mentors, while younger ones learn by example—fostering both collaboration and confidence. The multi-age setting encourages independence, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Inspired by the Reggio Emilia and Montessori approaches, our classrooms emphasize curiosity, exploration, and purposeful play within a rich and thoughtfully designed learning environment.
In Kindergarten, it all comes together. Students take the next step in their

educational journey, engaging in collaborative projects, developing autonomy, and strengthening foundational skills across subject areas. By the end of the year, our Kindergarteners are confident, capable, and fully prepared for their transition to Grade 1—ready to take on new challenges with excitement and pride.