Maple Street School: A Village for Every Child

“People walk around in a village and say, We take care of you. They give babies a hug.”

- Neal, Squirrels Class

“Momma, mommy and Rafi. Grandma Anna takes care of me and then she goes home.”

- Paige, Frogs Class

Dear Families,

We wholeheartedly believe in the African proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child.” Our conversations with the children in the classroom affirm the heart of this belief: a village is a community where people care for, love, help, and support one another.

I started at Maple Street as an intern when I was a teenager, and more than 20 years later, I wear the hat of Director of the school. I’ve seen firsthand how parents, grandparents, siblings, friends, nannies, caregivers, and teachers all contribute to a child’s safe and healthy growth and development.

Because it truly takes a village, we are asking you to support the strength and future of our Village so EVERYONE GETS TO PLAY! Please consider donating to the Little Friends Campaign, our annual fundraiser that helps ensure Maple Street remains an equitable, inclusive, and accessible community for all families.

We are proud to share that more than 40% of children at MSS currently receive a Maple Street experience for less than full tuition, ranging from no cost to need-based tuition assistance. Our goal is to increase that number to more than 50%, expanding our village so that every child who needs us can be welcomed, supported, and loved.

“A village has cows, horses, and toys. Mom Anne, Daddy, and Mimi too.

There’s Danielle and Kamaria and they love me.”

- Xolani, Geese Class

Little Friends Village Quilt

Over the years, Maple Street School has become more than just a preschool; it's a living partnership —- a village. Teachers, families, children, and alumni work together to nurture curiosity, kindness, and confidence in every child. When your child steps through our doors, they are surrounded by caring adults who truly listen, see, and support their development. Even when they move on to new schools and return to visit, they are still embraced by this supportive community.

Our village provides a safe and joyful environment where children learn with their teachers and grow with their peers, thanks to the shared love and support of the entire community. Our community-based approach encourages social and emotional growth, offering diverse perspectives and stability from multiple caring adults, establishing a great foundation for navigating today's world. Together, we celebrate every milestone!

“It’s sweet that the parents came to clean.”

- Malik, Chipmunks Class

“A village is like a small country. People care for each other in a village and if someone doesn't

listen, you help them listen. We read Hunter’s Best Friend at School two times.”

- Noah Z., Q train Class

“My class goes outside. I see cars, a bus, a red fire truck, and a firefighter.”

- Theo, Frogs Class

Our village thrives thanks to the generosity, time, and care shared by everyone involved. Every person plays a critical role in making this community special:

Families bring their love, traditions, and time.
Teachers bring their joy and expertise.
Alumni bring their stories.
Board members bring their guidance and support.
Custodians care for our space.
Nannies bring their hugs.
Babies bring their smiles.
Service providers bring their specializations.
Our Prospect Park Neighborhood shares its gifts and provides its resources.

Every contribution, whether it's working in the school, volunteering on a committee, sharing a family tradition, connecting at pick-up and drop off, or sharing a warm Maple Street school memory, strengthens the bonds that make our village unique. All of this ensures that the children at Maple Street School grow and learn from diverse people in an environment where they are fully cared for, now and for years to come!

As we continue to care for one another, we are asking for your support. Your donations, no matter the size, help the Little Friends Fund ensure that our village can continue to grow, making room for more children to experience this caring community.

Please consider donating so that our village can continue to serve the families who need us. We thank you all for being a special part of our Maple Street School village.

Thank you for being an active participant in our community that continues to grow and grow with love, generosity, and connection.

With gratitude and in partnership,

Peggy

DONATE TODAY!
YOUR CONTRIBUTION IS TAX DEDUCTIBLE.
MAPLE STREET SCHOOL is a 501(c)3 charity. Your contributions are tax-deductible and may be eligible for a corporate matching program at the company where you work. Our Tax ID is 11-308905

Maple Street School Little Friends 2025-2026

By Maple Street School

Maple Street School Little Friends 2025-2026

It Takes a Village!