New Fairfield Bright Beginning
New Fairfield Bright Beginnings began in New Fairfield, CT in 1980 as Mary’s Learning Center.
Owner Mary Arnold created a loving, child centered environment in her home where families had peace of mind knowing their children had the best possible care.
New Fairfield Bright Beginnings was founded on the philosophy that children thrive in a safe, loving and home-like environment.
Both the physical well-being and emotional development of children is greatly influenced by these factors.
Our primary goal is providing families with quality childcare in a warm, safe happy environment – a place where you can leave your child, confident that he or she is receiving outstanding care and enjoying a positive, stimulating learning experience.
Quick Stats (2023)
- Top Ranked CT School
- School Type: Early Childhood / Day Care
- Grades: Nursery/Preschool-6
- Enrollment: 247 students
- Acceptance rate: 99%
- Average class size: 10 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
New Fairfield Bright Beginning ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Connecticut for:
Category
Attribute
Student Body
School Overview
School Type
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Nursery/Preschool-6
Year Founded
1980
Summer School Offered
Yes
Student Body
Total Students
247 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
10%
State avg.: 29%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
20 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
12:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
80%
Average Class Size
10 students
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
comfortable clothing
comfortable clothing
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Tuition Notes
Specific to individual programs
Acceptance Rate
99%
National avg.: 85%
Admissions Director
Susan Hamilton
School Notes
- As a center , we believe in promoting health and well being, especially in the area of physical fittness. The school reasearched and purchased several pieces of child size exercise equipment-a treadmill, stationary bike, and rowing and elliptical machines. A yoga program is implemented each morning to start off the morning. New fitness programs are being implemented into with the School Age program. Two major remodeling projects are now complete. A 525 square foot beautiful infant/toddler room. The room includes crawling mats, soft toys, new handwashing station, food prep area, ceiling fan, and new napping equipment. A new 490 square foot classroom has been designed to house our existing Private Pre-K Enrichment Program. A wonderful space for children to learn and explore. Exceptional learning that exceeds all national educational levels.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate of New Fairfield Bright Beginning?
The acceptance rate of New Fairfield Bright Beginning is 99%, which is higher than the national average of 68%.
What is New Fairfield Bright Beginning's ranking?
New Fairfield Bright Beginning ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Connecticut for: Largest student body.
When is the application deadline for New Fairfield Bright Beginning?
The application deadline for New Fairfield Bright Beginning is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
School Reviews
5 5/12/2014
I love working at Bright Beginnings, my co-workers are great and my bosses are great and very caring, they are my second home.
Endorse New Fairfield Bright Beginning. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
- Academic or athletic awards
Recent Articles

Children With Learning Differences: How To Proceed
Facing the reality that your child has learning differences is never easy. But with a diagnosis from a qualified professional, and skilled experienced teachers who know how to remediate those differences, your child can learn to handle her differences. More here.

Enrichment Resources For Children Ages 10-14
I asked ChatGPT to list apps, YouTube Channels, and podcasts suitable for enriching the studies of students ages 10-14. (We'll look at resources for younger and older students in another article.)

February 13, 2023
Designing Assignments In The ChatGPT EraAI (Artificial Intelligence), specifically ChatGPT, poses some serious challenges for teachers. We explore the importance of teaching students how to attribute the work and ideas of others.