Maple Street School

Overview

Maple Street School is a nonprofit cooperative preschool established in 1978, located in Prospect Lefferts Gardens, Brooklyn, New York. It serves children ages 2 to 6 and emphasizes a play-based, emergent curriculum rooted in developmental philosophies inspired by Reggio Emilia and the Bank Street Developmental Interaction Model. The school is dedicated to creating meaningful and joyful learning experiences through hands-on exploration and community involvement.

Mission and Philosophy

The mission of Maple Street School is to foster a love of learning through child-led discovery. The institution prioritizes the holistic development of children, recognizing their emotional, social, cognitive, and physical growth as interconnected. The cooperative model encourages family involvement in the school’s operations, thus building a strong sense of community and belonging among families and children. Parents are integral stakeholders who contribute to curriculum development, event planning, and fundraising efforts, which helps maintain lower operational costs.

The educational approach at Maple Street School is characterized by the following principles:

• Play-Based Learning: The curriculum is designed around the idea that children learn best through play and exploration, allowing them to engage deeply with their interests.

• Inclusive Environment: The school embraces diversity in all forms, promoting a sense of safety and belonging for every child and family. It actively seeks to address issues related to race, gender, identity, class, and ability to ensure an equitable educational experience.

• Community Engagement: Family participation is encouraged, fostering relationships and a support network among parents, teachers, and children, which enhances the educational experience.

Programs and Curriculum

Maple Street School implements a play-based, emergent curriculum that adapts to the interests of children. This child-centered approach not only promotes curiosity and critical thinking but also emphasizes social-emotional skills, resilience, and lifelong learning. Children engage in meaningful projects that stem from their own questions and discoveries, allowing them to take an active role in their education.

The school hosts events throughout the year that promote community building among families, such as Parents Night Out, seasonal celebrations, and educational workshops. These activities reinforce the school's commitment to creating a vibrant and connected community.

Financial Overview

As a designated 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Maple Street School relies on a mix of revenue sources including contributions, program services, and other forms of financial support. According to its latest fiscal data, the organization reported significant income from program services, indicating a strong focus on education and community engagement. It also maintains a financial aid program, enabling nearly half of its students to benefit from tuition assistance, ensuring access for diverse families.

Governance

The governance of Maple Street School is managed by a Board of Trustees, responsible for overseeing fiscal health, setting policies, and strategic planning. The board ensures the school operates in line with its mission and objectives while supporting the educational environment.

Conclusion

Maple Street School stands as a significant institution in Brooklyn, promoting an inclusive, playful, and community-oriented approach to early childhood education. Its commitment to fostering a love of learning among children and empowering families through active participation makes it a vital part of the local educational landscape.

[1] https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/113089050 [2] https://www.maplestreetschool.org/about-maple-street-school [3] https://www.maplestreetschool.org [4] https://maplestreetschool.com/about/governance/ [5] https://www.idealist.org/en/nonprofit/8ddeb0a7cdfe411f9c1e0252e6c4e8c4-the-maple-street-school-brooklyn