The High Quality Early Learning Project

Spuyten Duyvil Preschool

Spuyten Duyvil Preschool is a Bronx, New York city-funded early childhood center that serves a diverse population of children and families. Through classrooms that are carefully designed into well-provisioned centers, outdoor learning environments of gardens and playgrounds, caring teachers that are culturally-congruent with the children in their care, and specialists that offer music and movement, chess, block play, Spanish language learning opportunities, and violin instruction, Spuyten Duyvil Preschool puts into practice developmental and neuroscience research confirming that children learn through play and active experiences.

Principles of Ideal Learning in Action: A Look at Spuyten Duyvil Preschool


Principles of Ideal Learning Environments

Decision-making reflects a commitment to equity
Children construct knowledge from diverse experiences to make meaning of the world
The teacher is a guide, nurturing presence, and co-constructor of knowledge
The environment is intentionally designed to facilitate exploration, independence, and interaction
Continuous learning environments support adult development

Interview with School Director Judith Menken
Interview with Music and Movement Teacher Mary E. Cartales