Dear Family,
Thank you for your interest in The Nest Schools! I’m Jane Porterfield, Founder and CEO, and I’m excited to welcome you. Finding the right early childhood program is a big decision, and we’re honored you’re considering us for your family.
Who We Are & Why It Matters
Almost 40 years ago I opened my first school, Educational Playcare in Connecticut. Over the next 35 years, together with my husband, Gerry Pastor, who joined me in 2001, we grew to 20 schools across Connecticut setting a new standard for high-quality programs for children, families and staff.
In 2019, we thought we were ready to retire, but our mission of raising the standard in early education felt unfinished. So, in 2021, we founded The Nest Schools with a simple but powerful goal: to create the best early childhood programs for children, families, and educators anywhere!
Today, with schools across multiple states, we’ve taken everything we’ve learned over the years and made it even better. We’re proud to be part of the community, providing high-quality early childhood education to families like yours. I promise – you will not find another childcare or preschool that compares to The Nest.
What Makes The Nest Different?
- Research-backed, play-based curriculum: We know children learn best through play! Our programs foster social-emotional development, critical thinking, and creativity – building skills that truly prepare kids for the future.
- A team of passionate educators: We hire the best early childhood professionals who genuinely care about your child’s growth and happiness. Our focus on hiring the best and providing them with the materials, training, and workplace environment to be the best is very important to us.
- Our core values of kindness, wellness, innovation, and fun create a positive and inclusive environment, ensuring every child’s growth and happiness are supported.
You’re a VIP (Very Important Parent)
Now that we’ve connected, you’re officially part of our VIP (Very Important Parents) Community! That means you’re part of a growing community of families who value connection, learning, and growth for their children. To help you explore what makes The Nest Schools special, we’ve put together a couple of great resources:
Our Interactive Flipbook – A deep dive into what makes The Nest special. Make sure to check out the videos throughout. VIEW FLIPBOOK HERE
See The Nest Difference – Check out this video, which provides an overview of The Nest Schools’ approach and philosophy, and shares what guides our work each day. VIEW VIDEO HERE.
What Happens Next?
There’s so much more to share, and we’ll be in touch with:
- Emails and texts introducing who we are, what we stand for, and what makes our programs unique.
- Insights into our curriculum, teaching philosophy, and how we nurture learning through play.
- Tips and resources to support your family, because we believe in being part of your village.
Let’s Make This Easy
We know parents are busier than ever, so we’re here to make the process simple, stress-free, and enjoyable.
A member of our school leadership team will be in touch soon to learn more about your family and answer any questions you may have.
We can’t wait to welcome you and your little one to The Nest family!
To new beginnings,
Jane Porterfield
The Nest Schools
Founder & CEO