Community School

For children ages 18 months - 5 years

Our Community School exists to build the world we want, right here and right now, by nourishing caring and compassionate growth for children.

We are more than just a school. We are on a mission to provide play-based education that builds the conditions humans need to thrive. 

Children’s education at Wheelhouse is filled with joy and curiosity. Whether in our cozy classrooms or in the natural world where you’ll often find us, learning is sparked by the real world. Learning at Community School unfolds organically, holistically, and in community, laying the crucial social-emotional foundations for effective communication. 

Our anti-oppressive pedagogy:

  • Prioritizes play and self-directed learning

  • Is free-thinking, responsive, creative, and non-dogmatic

  • Integrates academics into project-based inquiry projects

  • Engages with real-world issues and community partnerships

  • Holds space for children as inventors and creators

  • Is holistic and hands-on

Schedule Options

Toddler Classroom for children 18 months - 2 years, 9 months

Half-day Option: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Full-day Option: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Extended Day add-on is available from 3 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.

5-day schedule, 3-day schedule (MTW), or 2-day schedule (ThF) available

Blue Room Preschool Classroom for children 2 years, 9 months - 4 years

Full-day Option only: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Extended Day add-on is available from 3 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.

5-day schedule, 3-day schedule (MTW), or 2-day schedule (ThF) available

Yellow Room Preschool Classroom for children 4 - 5 years

(who have not previously been enrolled in elementary school)

Full-day Option only: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Extended Day add-on is available from 3 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.

5-day schedule, 3-day schedule (MTW), or 2-day schedule (ThF) available

Tuition

2026 - 2027 Academic Year

Through our sliding scale, work exchange program, and participation in New York State’s Childcare Assistance Program, we strive to create a community that is accessible and inclusive to all. Each family and child that joins our community is precious to us, and we strive to provide an environment in which each of you is seen, celebrated, and able to grow. 

Tier 1 rates reflect payments that are lower than the actual cost of our program per child, and are subsidized by our general operational budget through fundraising and sponsors.

Tier 2 reflects the actual cost of our program per child.

Tier 3 & 4 rates assist us in developing a fund to address needed building repairs as they arise, and to help us develop a financial assistance fund.

If the tuition rates listed below are not possible for your family, please contact us to learn more about our work exchange program and the Childcare Assistance Program.


Submit your application today! Spots are offered in the order applications have been received.

undefined5 half days3 half days2 half days5 full days3 full days2 full days
Tier 1 (household income below $80,000)$963-1,082$578-649$385-432$1,400-1,574$840-944$560-629
Tier 2 (household income between $80 - 150,000)$1,083-1,298$650-778$433-520$1,575-1,889$945-1,133$630-756
Tier 3 (household income above $150,000)$1,299-1,443$779-865$521-578$1,890-2,100$1,134-1,260$756-840
Tier 4 (voluntary opt-in rate for financial sponsorship)$1,444-2525$866-1,515$579-1,010$2,101-3675$1,261-2,205$840 - 1,470
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