Celebrating 40 years of “Excellence in Education” 1970—2010

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About Our School

Since 1970, parents have been selecting Jack and Jill Preschool and Kindergarten for their children’s first school experience.   Co-founded by Rita Moore and Carol Maurer, Jack and Jill was the first preschool in Lebanon County to become NAEYC accredited.  We offer classes for children ages 2 1/2 to 5, with our programs ranging from 2 1/2 to 4 hours per day, depending on your child's age.  Our curriculum is based on a part-time, social, and educational school experience.  Our students learn in a fun and relaxed environment, and are taught by an experienced and professional staff. 

 

Jack & Jill Philosophy

Our mission is to provide quality Preschool and Kindergarten programs which foster creativity, curiosity, and self-expression in each child.  Through personal attention, which celebrates uniqueness of each child, Jack & Jill offers a stimulating classroom environment which nurtures a child’s social, emotional, intellectual, and physical growth.  Our goal is to instill a love of learning that lasts a lifetime.

 

How It All Began

In the late 1960’s, two young mothers rekindled a college friendship after a chance meeting of the Junior Women's Club.  In searching for a creative learning environment for their own small children, Rita Moore and Carol Maurer joined forces and the Jack & Jill Nursery School and Kindergarten was established.  Beginning with small classes in their own homes for two years, the school grew to three centers in Iona, Lebanon and Myerstown.  Throughout their partnership, Rita and Carol have had the privilege of enjoying a close relationship with the nearly 4,000 children who have passed though Jack & Jill's doors. Additionally, treasured friendships developed between the children's parents and the founders.

 

 

 

 

 YEARMILESTONES
1970

Jack & Jill officially opens in September, with Rita and Carol holding classes in their homes.

 

1971-1979

Rita and Carol teach together at the Iona United Methodist Church, with classes for threes, fours and Pre-K.

 

1978

A Kindergarten class begins at St. Andrews Presbyterian Church in Lebanon. 

 

1979

 Classes for threes, fours, and Pre-K children are added during the next several years at St. Andrews.

 

1982

A new center at Frieden's Lutheran Church in Myerstown begins for three and four year olds.

 
1988

Last year at the Myerstown facility.

  

1990

First school in Lebanon County to become nationally accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).

 
1997

Last year at the Iona facility.

 

1998

Rita and Carol semi-retire, but continue to guide the school as Board members. The School now supervised by volunteer parent Board of Directors.

 
2002

Board purchases current home of Jack & Jill at 280 Hillcrest Road, Lebanon.

 

2010 Jack & Jill Preschool and Kindergarten Celebrates 40th Anniversary.