Nest Preschool at New Emerson

Vision

To nurture a generation of curious, creative, and compassionate learners by fostering a lifelong love of learning with a focus on STEAM skills, and a deep sense of community, stewardship, and belonging. We strive to inspire young minds to explore, innovate, and thrive in a supportive and inclusive environment, producing learners who are prepared for the future.

Purpose & Philosophy

Nest represents the nurturing environment for learners at an important stage in their life, as they prepare to spread their wings and fly into grade school. The vital year before kindergarten is an important learning time for students to gain and apply skills, knowledge, and peer relationships.

STEAM Focus

Nest is powered by the EUREKA! McConnell Science Museum, so the incorporation of science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) content within our curriculum is a priority. We believe STEAM is the future, and promotes critical thinking in addition to awareness of our environment and planet. Each of our learners will also get a free family membership to the EUREKA! McConnell Science Museum.

Learning Environment

Our local landscapes and outdoor recreation make Grand Junction one of the most unique and beautiful areas in the world. Our learning environment embraces these unique features and utilizes the outdoors as a classroom. We are fortunate to have access to the tree-rich space of New Emerson’s playground. Students will use this space not only to move and stay active, but to observe natural phenomena and ask questions. Nest will also coordinate and lead off-site field trips to learning experiences in our community.

Nest Preschool Hours:

Monday-Thursday

8:00AM-4:15PM

*Please note, admission into the Nest Preschool does not affect acceptance into New Emerson Elementary. Families will still need to go through the lottery process for kindergarten enrollment at New Emerson.

*Due to licensing regulations, students must be 4 years old by August 31, 2025, to join the incoming 2025-26 class.

Values

• Excellence: We strive to utilize the evidence-based practices in early childhood education.
• Innovation: Through the use of a STEAM approach, we create critical thinkers, problem solvers, and curious learners.
• Community: We foster a learning environment where all members are welcomed and inspired to positively contribute, while feeling a sense of belonging.
• Inspiration: Fostering motivation and enthusiasm for learning.
• Adaptability: Focus on strengths and potential, when faced with problems or challenges.

The Nest Preschool is aligned with District 51's school year.

Please do not visit Nest in person or call New Emerson Elementary for admission information. You can contact us through email at nest@eurekasciencemuseum.org