Founded in 1952, FPCNS is a nonsectarian neighborhood school welcoming children of all races, religions, abilities, cultural and economic backgrounds, and family configurations. A developmental curriculum encourages children to explore materials and relationships, express ideas and feelings, and build skills. The program includes art, music, movement, woodworking, blocks, books, manipulatives, sensory materials, plants and animals, cooking and dramatic play. Large bright classrooms with tall windows overlook trees and gardens. The fenced-in roof playground features a playhouse and climbing equipment. Space is available for movement classes and indoor play on rainy days. Each class has a licensed head teacher with a master’s degree, an assistant teacher and an aide. Teachers are chosen for their creativity as well as their knowledge, warmth and sensitivity to children. There are specialists for music, movement and woodworking/studio. Parent involvement includes parent education programs, social and fund-raising events, the maintenance of an active lending library and special classroom projects.