Frequently Asked Questions
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F.A.Q
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IS MCNS A LICENSED NURSERY SCHOOL?
Yes, MCNS is licensed by the New York City Department of Mental Health and Hygiene. Our permit number is 3053. The school has regularly accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) several times since 2003.
IS MCNS A DOE U3K or UPK?
No. MCNS is an independent, tuition based, not for profit preschool. As such, mastered teachers develop curriculum specific to the children in their classrooms each year. Pre-Academic skills are introduced naturally through play.
DOES MY CHILD NEED TO BE POTTY TRAINED?
No. Potty Training is part of the curriculum in the Explorers and Pathfinders Rooms.
DO WE NEED TO BE INVOLVED IN COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY IN ORDER TO ENROLL AT MCNS?
No. MCNS serves both the Columbia University Medical Center and the Washington Heights and other neighboring communities.
WHAT IS THE STUDENT TO TEACHER RATIO?
In MCNS classrooms, master teachers are supported by experienced, well trained assistants. Maximum enrollment in the Explorers classroom is 12 children. Pathfinders is 15, and Trailblazers is 20. The ratio is 1:4 in Explorers, 1:6 in Pathfinders and 1:6 in Trailblazers.
WHEN DOES THE SCHOOL DAY BEGIN?
Classrooms open in the morning at 8:30 AM. Arrivals as early as 8:00am may be pre-arranged with the office.
DOES MCNS OFFER ANY FINANCIAL AID?
A limited amount of tuition aid is made available each year. The financial aid application with all supporting documentation must be submitted to TADS before January 9, 2025 for the 2025 -26 school year. After the deadline in January, families should feel free to contact the Director,
Tricia (tricia@mcns.org), about applying for tuition assistance.
DO YOU HAVE ANY ENRICHMENT/SPECIAL CLASSES?
Yes. Music, Studio Art, Science, and Nature & Gardening specialists supplement the regular program. Storytelling, and Games & Movement activities are integrated into the children’s classroom experience.
DO YOU OFFER SUPPORT FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS?
Children applying to MCNS should be able to participate in the activities of an early childhood general education program. MCNS welcomes children who are receiving services through Early Intervention or CPSE. The staff is accustomed to collaborating with Speech Therapists, Occupational Therapists and SEITs in our mainstream environment.
Sometimes, MCNS teachers or administrators will recommend an evaluation when observations suggest a child might benefit from additional support.
