In a recent meeting, concerns were raised regarding the impact of the new universal preschool program on local private preschools, particularly Wesley Nursery School. The center's director highlighted the challenges faced by private institutions in competing with the free services offered by the universal program. Several long-standing centers in the area have already closed due to low enrollment and financial difficulties, underscoring the precarious situation for many.

The director expressed disappointment over the mixed delivery system proposed by the district, stating that it does not align with Wesley Nursery School's nurturing and family-oriented approach. The school emphasizes a \"learn by play\" philosophy, allowing children to engage in supervised free play that fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills. This approach, they argue, is essential for developing life skills in young learners.

Wesley Nursery School serves children from various districts, a practice that would be jeopardized under a district partnership. The center has its own successful curriculum, licensed by the New Jersey Department of Children and Families, which allows for flexibility in meeting the diverse needs of its students. In contrast, the universal preschool program mandates strict adherence to a set curriculum, which the director believes stifles creativity and joy in learning.

The director shared troubling anecdotes from local public preschool programs, where teachers were restricted from engaging students in activities that deviated from the prescribed curriculum. Instances included a preschool class being unable to color butterflies for an art show and another class being unable to explore nature due to curriculum constraints. These examples highlight a growing concern that the rigid structure of the universal program may diminish the quality of early childhood education.

The meeting underscored the need for dialogue between private and public preschool providers to ensure that the educational needs of all children are met while maintaining the integrity of diverse teaching philosophies. As the landscape of early childhood education evolves, the future of private preschools like Wesley Nursery School hangs in the balance.