Introduction

All about GNCS
  • Welcome to GNCS!

    Discover What Makes us so Special

    Great Neck Community School is an accredited, non-profit, non-sectarian, multicultural cooperative nursery school. We are the oldest cooperative nursery school on Long Island, with a rich history dating back to 1932.

    The Great Neck Community School offers a stimulating and engaging first school experience for children starting at age 2, through pre-K. Our dedicated and enthusiastic staff educate and build confident students who will move onto kindergarten as knowledgeable and independent young learners. Our year-round programs encourage early academic skills, creativity, exploration, independence, and friendship. We take pride in our experienced teachers, home-like atmosphere, and beautiful playground. During the summer, we provide continuity for the children and peace-of-mind for parents as the curriculum continues into the summer program in the same engaging and hands-on learning environment.

    We meet national, state and local standards in areas of staff credentials and certification, staff training, curriculum, classroom environment, children’s health and safety, and school home relationships.

  • Flexible Programs

    GNCS is open Monday through Friday from 7:30 am-6:00 pm and offers a variety of program options, including a full day program.

    Early Childhood Specialists

    Our experienced teachers are passionate about Early Childhood Education.

    Idyllic Location

    GNCS is nestled in a convenient and accessible Long Island village located fewer than 20 miles from Manhattan and is an easy commute via the LIRR.

    Universal Pre-K

    GNCS is the only Universal Pre-Kindergarten Collaborative Agency recognized by the Great Neck Public School District.

    We are a Nut-Free School

    We develop and observe action plans for any allergies a child may have.

    Licensed & Registered

    Our program complies with all New York State licensing requirements. Our school is licensed by the New York State Office of Children and Family Services and registered by the State of New York Education Department.

  • Our Values

    Our Values Impact Everything We Do
    • Individualism

      Teachers create an individualized learning program to best suit the needs of each child.

    • Collaboration

      Teachers collaborate with children, staff and families to co-create thoughtful, meaningful early education.

    • Empowerment

      We empower children by fostering independence, self-confidence and a love of learning.

    • Diversity

      GNCS celebrates and honors various ethnicities, backgrounds, family structures, abilities, beliefs and learning styles.

    • Community

      Beyond the classroom, GNCS fosters a warm community through parent involvement and a schedule of fun events.

    • Tradition

      We are proud of our 80+ year history and grateful for teachers who have been with us for decades.