About us

We value the unique needs of all our students

VNS is dedicated to the full child approach.

The foundation of our program is a rich classroom experience which provides an educational environment dedicated to integrating, building upon, and valuing the differing needs and unique qualities of all students.

The Village Nursery School is a non-profit, non-denominational preschool program. Founded in 1953, VNS is the oldest continually operating preschool in Harvard.

VNS does not discriminate in providing services to children and their families, or in its employment policies on the basis of race, religion, cultural heritage, political beliefs, marital status, sexual orientation, toilet training, or disability.

Our Board of Trustees

As a non-profit, VNS is run by a dedicated volunteer Board of Trustees, along with the Director, Maureen Bajko, and Assistant Director, Emilie Staiger. Please contact the Board if you have questions or feedback!

Our children have flourished in the school’s program. They have learned so many valuable skills ranging from writing their names, to how to communicate and interact with their peers. We love VNS!

Liz, Parent
PHILOSOPHY
The staff at VNS believe that children learn through play. We will provide age appropriate opportunities for children to explore, discover, create and imagine.
Mission
Dedicated to the education of the whole child, VNS provides a rich classroom environment experience focusing on promoting intellectual, creative, physical, social, and emotional growth. We strive to foster and support each child’s unique learning style in a nurturing, child-centered environment.
Why us

The best early learning experience

Our most important function at Village Nursery School is to ensure that each child’s first school experience is a joyful and enriching one. Above all, we hope to impart a love of school and learning for all our students.

Child-Centered Learning

We foster and support each child’s unique learning style.

Families as a Whole

Parents play an active and important role in your child's education. We encourage, but do not require parent involvement.

Passionate Teachers

Small class sizes are led by highly qualified teachers, many of whom have been with the school 5, 10, or even 15 or more years

Creative Spaces

VNS provides a bright, happy classrooms in which children can grow and learn. Our campus offers four unique outdoor play spaces and access to the Harvard Conservation Trail System.

Technology Free

At VNS, we believe the best learning happens through hands-on exploration, imaginative play, and genuine human connection. Our technology-free environment allows children to fully engage their senses, develop creativity, and build meaningful relationships without the distraction of screens.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Meet Our Staff

Experts in giving your children the best start

Maureen Bajko

25 Years in Education
Director

Emilie Staiger

25 Years in Education
Assistant Director
Pre-K

Katie Ward

7 Years in Education
Twos & Creative Connections
Extended Day Coordinator

Heather Thomas

7 Years in Education
Twos

Kelly O'Connor

24 Years in Education
Threes

Kerri Green

3 Years in Education
Threes

Carley Rigby

15 Years in Education
Young Fours & Friday 2.9

vns_2025-90
Michelle Rawlinson

30 Years in Education
Young Fours

Elizabeth Horne

20 Years in Education
Pre-K

Sue McClain

25 Years in Education
Pre-K

Deb Barton

9 Years in Education
Pre-K

Karen Johnson-Taylor

3 Years in Education
Creative Connections

Michele Borsari

16 Years in Education
Building Substitute
Extended Day

More than just a joyful place

We begin enrollment in January. Contact us now to get more details and schedule a tour!