Second Nature Zoo Preschool

• Second Nature Zoo Preschool is a Reggio-inspired, nature-based program, with a strong focus on creativity, critical thinking and social and emotional learning.
• We are a child directed program with an emergent curriculum and a neurodiversity affirming philosophy. Students become part of the Zoo community and learn to identify as scientists, while exploring topics that are meaningful to them.
• Students will spend at least 50% of their time outdoors.
• A low teacher to students ratio of 1:6, allows differentiation among students at varying developmental levels.
• We know that a preschoolers primary work is play, and build in ample unstructured play opportunities daily.
• We exceed all Missouri Early Learning standards, while not pushing down Kindergarten curriculum.

Preschool Mission:

• To support children and their families in a learning environment grounded in a deep connection to the natural world and sustainability.
• To foster creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking through child-directed learning.
• To nurture each child across all areas of development with a strong focus on social and emotional growth.
• To welcome diversity of all kinds and further our work and understanding of equity and inclusion issues.

Available Classes:
Ages 3-4; Sun Bear Class:
Children must be age 3 by July 31 of the school year.
Ages 4-5; Grizzly Bear Class:
Children must be age 4 by July 31 of the school year.
Ages 3-5; Polar Bear Class:
Children must be age 3 by July 31 of the school year.

Please note: All students must be fully vaccinated to attend our program. All funds for Financial Aid for the 2026-2027 schools year have been allocated. We are not accepting new requests for the upcoming year.

Selection Process:
Applicants receive e-mail notification. Qualified applicants will be invited to interview. Interviews are with primary caregivers and students, who have a play-session portion. Preschool offers are emailed. Applicants have one week to accept the offer and secure with a non-refundable enrollment fee.
Sun Bear/Grizzly enrollment fee, $700.
Polar Bear enrollment fee, $1000.

Classes begin the week of Labor Day. Schedule and Fees September to May
Ages 3 to 4 years "Sun Bear Class"

• Two-day program 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays
• Tuition is $1100 per month
• Children must be age 3 by July 31 of the school year.

Ages 4 to 5 years "Grizzly Bear Class"

• Three-day program 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday
• Tuition is $1600 per month
• Children must be age 4 by July 31 of the school year.

Ages 3 to 5 years "Polar Bear Class"

• Five-day program 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday
• Tuition is $2600 per month
• Children must be age 3 by July 31 of the school year.