First Presbyterian Chc of Santa Monica Nursery SC, Santa Monica

First Presbyterian Nursery School began in 1959, surrounded by rolling hills of grass and an ocean view. Today, nestled in the heart of the bustling City of Santa Monica among towering commercial buildings, the school's proximity to the ocean, farmer's market, and everything from the post office to on-going construction sites provokes many learning opportunities. While the city has grown up around it, First Presbyterian Nursery School continues its tradition of providing a community of children, teachers and parents committed to supporting each other in raising creative, loving children who know their immeasurable worth and are able to utilize their gifts and potential. The school is non-profit, church-related and non-denominational. Our approximately 100 families are from diverse cultural, ethnic and economic backgrounds. We strive to encourage a collaborative environment where children, teachers, and parents can learn from each other and a place where each individual is respected and valued. We look deeply at the image of the child, the image of the teacher, and the image of the school environment. The importance of social and emotional growth during the early years gives emphasis to small group work and problem-solving among peers. Our curriculum emerges from the children's interests and investigations. There is a collaboration of ideas between children and teachers giving respect to the child's development and the many languages of learning, such as imaginative, cognitive, communicative, logical and creative. We encourage children to be co-participants in the organization of their daily life in the classroom and school. Our environment is a teaching laboratory of creative spaces that motivate learning, develop relationships and promote a child's strong sense of self and security. Our school is in continual dialogue with the schools in Reggio Emilia, Italy. We share many of their theories and practices which have been recognized throughout the world for their innovative excellence. Relationships are built a