Melrose Daycare & Preschool is a private, non-profit, non-sectarian school. It was started in 1971 by Melrose residents, including members of the First Congregational Church, which offered space in its building.
Amy Spollett saw that local families needed care for their youngest children, and she recruited Janet Runge to help start it. Amy served on our board for 35 years, until she passed in 2015. Janet still serves today.
In 1997 we became the first center in Melrose to earn NAEYC accreditation. In 2013 we reached Level 2 in the Massachusetts QRIS.
Along the way
1971Opened our doors to 40 preschoolers.
Built a new playground.
Opened a third toddler room and reached full capacity.
Opened a second infant room.
Started our compost and gardening program.
Our mission
To give all children and families high-quality early childhood care, in partnership with parents, staff, and the community. We offer a warm, safe, and supportive place for every child to grow socially, emotionally, physically, and in language and thinking.
How we learn
Everything here starts from one idea: children learn with their hands, in the garden and the compost, at the water table, with clay and paint, and outdoors every day.
See how we learn