The St. Philip's Nursery School welcomed new preschoolers to the 2010-2011 school year while beginning its fiftieth year of operation. Children first attended St. Philip's Nursery School in September 1960, and held their first graduation in June of 1961.

"The Vestry at that time saw the need for a program to serve the young families in the community," recalls the Rev. Frank Geer. "The Parish House, which had housed the Garrison School kindergarten class, had space available in 1960. A St. Philip's parishioner, Anne Prentice, had a nursery school in her home, and the Vestry invited her to start the first St. Philip's Nursery School in the fall of 1960. It has been here ever since."

JoAnne Chadwick, Director of St. Philip's Nursery School, with the staff and volunteers, is planning a series of celebratory events during this anniversary year. First up is a special children's church service on Sunday, September 26 at 10:30 a.m. A cocktail party, anniversary yearbook, special children's play event, and an extra-special graduation are planned for the spring.

"We invite all former St. Philip's families to join us as this special year goes along," confirms Mrs. Chadwick. JoAnne Chadwick is the fifth director of the Nursery School, following Anne Prentice, Carol Seaboldt, Adele Williams, and Anita Prentice.

All graduates of St. Philip's and their families are encouraged to call 424-4209 to sign up for the mailing list for this year's events. They can also visit the Nursery School Web site at www.stphilipsns.org for further information.