About Kensington Nursery School
KNS is a state-licensed preschool affiliated with the Kensington Congregational Church. We have been serving Berlin, Connecticut and surrounding communities since 1972.
Our Philosophy
Kensington Nursery School's program focuses on hands-on learning in a positive, child-centered environment. Our teachers ensure that all classroom activities are flexible enough to meet each child's needs, while providing a wide variety of learning experiences that help children develop socially, emotionally, and physically as well as cognitively.
What is a "Family Centered" Preschool?
One of KNS's outstanding features is its emphasis on parental involvement. As a family centered preschool, KNS provides the opportunity for parents and parent-substitutes to be involved in their children's first educational experiences. KNS families:
Bring their children into the classroom each day, and return to the classroom for pick-up.
Work in the classroom alongside the teachers approximately 3 to 5 times per year. During this time you may assist with arts and crafts, oversee playtime activities, set up snacks, help with hand-washing and other self-care tasks, provide help with cleanup, and much more. You will actively participate alongside the children in all aspects of their school day.
Supply snacks or drinks for the class on your "work day."
Parent involvement allows KNS to have a 1 to 5 adult to child ratio in the classroom.
A Day at KNS
During their day at KNS, we strive for each child to experience:
social interaction with adults and children of his/her own age group
cognitive development
music and creative movement
arts and crafts, which help develop fine motor skills
gross motor development activities such as outdoor play
a warm, positive environment fostering positive self-esteem.
In short, a typical day at KNS provides opportunities for cognitive, social, emotional and physical development. It is challenging yet enjoyable for each individual child. And it always includes lots of smiles! Learn More
Introducing Our Staff
Moira Daigle - Pre-K 4/5 (3 day classes)
“The 2005/2006 school year marked the beginning of my teaching at Kensington Nursery School. However, my time at KNS really began when my two daughters attended preschool here. I so enjoyed my time as a parent and volunteer that when my girls moved on to elementary school, I stayed! I began teaching the three-year-old class and after eight years moved on to teach the PreK 4/5 class.
My educational background includes a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Albertus Magnus College, Master of Business Administration from the University of Connecticut, and a Master of Science in Elementary Education from the University of New Haven. I am certified as Head Teacher for Birth to 5 years by the State of Connecticut.
Each day at school, we explore the world and learn through play in both child and teacher-initiated activities. Our hands get messy, our bodies are moving, there are smiles on our faces, and voices are joined in laughter and song. It is a joy to be with these enthusiastic learners as they experience many firsts and overcome challenges. The children are fun, funny, and honest. Each day brings something new which makes me better and more creative as a teacher. And when I happen to go home with paint on my pants and glitter in my hair, I know we had a great day!”
Michelle Cyr - Pre-K 3 (2 day classes)
“Entering my tenth year as Head Teacher for the three-year olds, I absolutely love being part of the KNS family. My educational background includes a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and a Master’s in Business Management, both from Central CT State University. I am currently certified as a Head Teacher, Birth to Age 5 in the State of CT. In addition to teaching at KNS, I also teach a four-year old class at another local preschool. I believe that children learn best through PLAY and like to offer hands-on discovery centers, art projects and science experiments to encourage their love of learning. As a child, it is important to be able to use open-ended materials and to experiment with a wide range of ways in which to use them. As a teacher, it is my intent to provide a learning environment where children can comfortably play, experiment, create, and actively participate.”
Lisa Degroff - Pre-K 4/5 (Assistant Teacher)
“I have been the Assistant Teacher in the Pre-K 4/5 program at Kensington Nursery School since 2007. My youngest son attended KNS and I spent 2 years as President and a parent volunteer. I was also the Interim Director of KNS in 2005-2006. I hold an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education and also certification as Head Teacher, Birth to Age 5 in the State of Connecticut. I love the family concept of KNS and our approach to learning through immersion and play. It is amazing to experience life through their curiosity and amazement. I am honored to be a part of the beginning of your child’s educational journey. In addition to teaching at KNS I am an active member of Kensington Congregational Church working with the churches youth in many different ways.”
Nikki Vernacatola- Pre-K 3 (Assistant Teacher) & Administrative Assistant
"I have been the Assistant Teacher in the PK3 classroom since 2020 and have been actively involved with the school since 2015 when my eldest child joined the PK3 class. As my 3 children progressed through the KNS preschool program, I have worn many hats. I was in charge of making the year-end memory book; I have been Vice President of both the PK3 class and the PK4 class; I was a regular substitute teacher when extra hands were needed and I have organized school-wide family fun nights to name a few. I currently am also the school's Administrator handling all enrollment duties, family communications, health forms, tuition payments and anything else needed. I am blessed to be part of a wonderful, family friendly environment.”
Olivia Robertson- Pre-K 3 Teacher’s Aide
“I am excited to join the Pre-K3 team at KNS this year as the teacher's aide. I am currently attending Tunxis Community College pursuing a degree in Elementary Education. I am a member of Kensington Congregational Church and have loved assisting at their Vacation Bible School summer program for the past seven years. I love working with young children. They make my day with their smiles!"
Tara Lamoureux- Pre-K 4/5 Teacher’s Aide
“I was thrilled to join the staff of KNS as the teacher's aide in the PK4/5 classroom in 2017 after several years of volunteerism at the school while both my daughters attended. I thoroughly enjoyed being the "working parent" helping out the teachers while spending quality time with my children. In addition to volunteering in the classroom, I also served on the Kiddie Karnival and Memory Book Committees within KNS and designed multiple bulletin board creations for the PK3 class. I hold a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education from Southern Connecticut State University. There is, and always will be, a special place in my heart for KNS and how it has stayed true to its core educational philosophy and play-based approach to learning while adapting to meet the varied needs of parents and families in our everchanging society”
Gwen McCann- Director of KNS
“I have been the Director of Christian Faith Formation at Kensington Congregational Church and the Director of KNS since 2007. Prior to that, I had the pleasure of being a working parent in the classroom while my two daughters attended preschool from 2000-2004. I enjoyed my time so much in the classroom, I joined the staff as the PK4/5 assistant teacher in 2005 until my appointment as Director. I feel it is a gift to me to be a part of your children's lives as they begin to explore the world around them and am inspired daily by each of them as their eyes light up at every new discovery. I am proud of our fantastic team of teachers and staff as I provide leadership and positive guidance for the most successful and fun outcomes for your children. This profession is so rewarding, and I love all the relationships I have built with students and families along the way.”
“KNS is not just ‘my daughter’s preschool’ - it is a community of caring teachers and parents who have joined together with the common goal of providing the best experience for our children. I’ve learned a lot here too, and made lots of new friends thanks to the family centered nature of KNS.
—Pamela, Berlin”
