Our Mission
The mission of Preschool of the Arts is to provide a quality early childhood education using a diverse curriculum with flexible hours. Our experienced, nurturing staff uses the arts to guide all children to their own level of academic excellence.
Why Should I Choose PSA?
- Flexible schedules
- Unique to the community
- Close to commuting routes
- Military discount – Childcare Aware
- Trusted Licensed Care by OEC
- Offers music, dance, and Spanish with experienced and credentialed teachers at NO EXTRA CHARGE
Philosophy
The philosophy of the Preschool of the Arts is to create an atmosphere where students, parents, and staff are comfortable expressing themselves in a positive manner, where they feel affirmed for who they are and what they have to say. We will provide an environment that fosters integrity and honesty at every level. We believe that children learn best through play and the discovery of concepts that are a result of their curiosity.
Objectives
- Science
- Technology
- Reading and writing
- Engineering
- Arts
- Math
These objectives are met through indoor and outdoor play using the Connecticut Early Learning and Development Standards (ELDS). The children participate in varied activities which provide growth in these areas through social experiences, community visitors, field trips, walking trips, gardening, and special science experiments.
Tracy Reid-Steele, Owner
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Tracy is the new Owner of Preschool of the Arts. She has 20 years of experience in Early Childhood Education. Tracy’s education includes Early Childhood Development, Special Education, and Children/Adults with Disabilities with a background in Administration. She grew up in Indiana/Ohio and now lives in Tolland with her husband and daughter. Tracy’s son graduated from Temple University and currently lives in New Jersey.
She feels blessed every day to be able to teach children and mentor staff. It is truly a privilege to be involved with their development. Tracy strongly believes that a high-quality program must contain a developmentally appropriate component, where care and education cannot be thought of as separate entities in dealing with young children. All care for young children must be integrated, as they learn from everything to which they are exposed. PSA does just that!
Gail Otis, Executive Director
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Gail’s education includes a BA in Early Childhood Development and Psychology from Worcester State University, a CT Director’s Credential, and a CT Coaching permit. She has worked with a wide range of ages from early care to high school. She currently coaches volleyball and lacrosse at Tolland High School. Gail lives in Tolland with her husband and two children.
Her philosophy on Early Childhood Education is to provide a safe, nurturing, child-centered environment. This education is delivered to each child through purposeful play. Teaching them to think creatively will help them in the changing world in which they live. By viewing children as learners and encouraging them to make choices we, their elders, are then able to provide them with a strong foundation for increasing their knowledge.
Rebecca Hinckley, Director of Ellington PSA
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Becky lives with her husband and their daughter, and in her spare time, she enjoys singing in the Enfield Community Chorus as well as her church choir. Reading, crafting, and traveling are among some of her favorite pastimes.
Early Childhood Education is so important because, as educators, we lay the foundation for success throughout school and into adulthood. From problem-solving and critical thinking skills to learning to work together as a team, so much learning comes at this age. Mrs Hinckley is so thankful that, at Preschool of the Arts, each child is encouraged to explore and learn at their own pace with the guidance of the teachers around them.
Collette Ward, Director of Colonial Square
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Bio coming soon!
Sara Christy, Director of Tolland PSA
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Bio coming soon!
Preschool of the Arts: Colonial Square
Preschool of the Arts: Ellington
Preschool of the Arts: Tolland
-Paul Harvey, Broadcaster
Read A Review!
Preschool of the Arts is a WONDERFUL preschool. Both of my children attend and I know picking a school is not an easy decision. We had tried one other preschool in Ellington and were looking for a “warmer and friendlier” environment. We found it at Preschool of the Arts! It’s a great feeling when you notice the teachers are all happy dropping off AND picking up the kids. I have noticed a vast improvement in their social skills and am amazed by how much they are learning! The whole family is looking forward to their next little concert!!
-Laura P.