Early Childhood

Our Mission

The Early Childhood Department is committed to creating a positive learning environment in which all children can succeed. Based on the Tools of the Mind and Go Math curriculum, as well as the Pre-K Teaching and Learning Standards, and the New Jersey Student Learning Standards, children are provided with the cognitive, academic and social skills necessary for optimal learning. Activities are designed to promote the development of self-regulation, which increases the child’s ability to learn. The Tools of the Mind curriculum builds children’s foundational skills in literacy and mathematics. Instruction is scaffolded to meet the individual learning needs of each student. We strive to include families and the community as part of our educational team, through newsletters, classroom visits, family programs and class trips. Together we build the foundation for the future.

early childhood schedule

For more information about the Early Childhood Department, please visit the following link (external site):

Jennifer Smith

Jennifer Smith

Director of Elementary Language Arts, Federal Programs and Early Childhood

Academy of Excellence
170 Hussa Street
Linden, NJ 07036
Phone: 908-587-2417 x80258
Email Jennifer Smith

Nicole Frankonis

Nicole Frankonis

Supervisor of Pre-K Program

Academy of Excellence
170 Hussa Street
Linden, NJ 07036
Phone: 908-587-2417 x80260
Email Nicole Frankonis

Jennifer Dougherty

Jennifer Dougherty

Supervisor of Pre-K

Academy of Excellence
170 Hussa Street
Linden, NJ 07036
Phone: 908-587-2417 x80259
Email Jennifer Dougherty