Business

Business Profile: Maritime Day School

KATHARINE SCHROEDER PHOTO | Maritime Day School owner Dawn Ward (left), head teacher for three-year-olds Kerry Ward (center) and head teacher for four-year-olds Shana Berkhart.

Owner: Dawn L. Ward

Year established: 2008

Location: 31095 Main Road, Cutchogue

Phone: 631-734-8457

Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

www.maritimedayschool.com

Maritime Day School was founded in 2008 by two local women who sought to provide a high-quality pre-school program and to make a difference in children’s lives. It offers “a unique education experience” for children ages two, three and four, according to its new owner, Dawn L. Ward.

“It is for families seeking a new direction in their child’s preschool years,” she said. “Notwithstanding our students’ tender ages, we put forth a unique theme-based curriculum which provides a solid foundation for learning. We also seek to provide cutting edge learning tools such as the interactive Smart Board which is being installed in our 4-year-old class, and new educational materials purchased for the 2- and 3-year-old classes.”

Maritime Day School offers a seven week summer program that is both educational and fun. “We believe summer camp should be intriguing and fun, while accomplishing our core goal, education,” said Ms. Ward. The program runs Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to noon.

Each weekly theme incorporates a daily art activity, math, language, social studies, singing, literature and science, and all involve a lot of fun and exploration. The children also have the opportunity to get wet and be silly. The first week the classes “traveled” to Egypt to see the great pyramids and learn about Egyptian hieroglyphs. This summer’s lineup includes “Walk like an Egyptian;” “Hang Ten” Beach; “Wizards;” “There’s A Snake In My Boot;” “Wild West;”  “Under the Big Top Circus,” “Knights and Princesses,” and “Do You Have What It Takes?” Survivor.

“Our priority is to provide children with a fun and rewarding summer experience, supervised by educated and seasoned teachers,” said Ms. Ward. “In addition to their extensive experience, all teachers and staff are certified in CPR and First Aid.”

Summer Camp provides children who have never experienced a preschool setting with an opportunity for routine and peer interaction. For children who have previously attended preschool, it provides consistency and maintenance, which can contribute to their success in the following school year. “We can ensure you that your child will be learning while creating summer memories,” said Ms. Ward.

For September enrollment, Maritime offers two daily sessions: 9 a.m. to noon, and 12:30 to 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.