The Gardner School of Arlington
A Caring Early Learning Community in Arlington
The Gardner School of Arlington offers high-quality infant care, toddler programs, preschool, and Pre-K for families in Arlington, Pentagon City, Rosslyn, and the greater Washington, DC area. We are located in the heart of the Radnor Fort Myer Heights neighborhood. Our warm, academically focused preschool serves children ages 6 weeks to 5 years with a supportive environment that blends early academics, nurturing relationships, and meaningful play. Conveniently located at the corner of Clarendon Boulevard and North Quinn Street, our school offers an exceptional early learning experience for families who live and work in Arlington and the greater Washington, DC area
Purposeful Blend of Play and Early Academics
Children learn through a research-based curriculum that supports early literacy, math, problem-solving, and social-emotional development. Our highly qualified teachers provide individualized support and create learning experiences that help children build confidence, friendships, and a strong sense of self. We are also approved to participate in the Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood program, which helps eligible military families access high-quality early education with financial support. With bright classrooms, indoor and outdoor playscapes, a Kids Café, and a dedicated S.T.E.A.M. lab, children feel safe, curious, and excited to learn each day.
Military Child Care (MCCYN)
We’re excited to share that The Gardner School of Arlington is now approved to provide Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood (MCCYN) fee assistance program for military families. With MCCYN fee assistance, a portion of your tuition is covered. This means more families can now access our academically focused, nurturing preschool environment with the support of approved state funding.
Not sure if you qualify? Visit the MCCYN Central site for more information.
Children learn through a research-based curriculum that supports early literacy, math, problem-solving, and social-emotional development. Our highly qualified teachers provide individualized support and create learning experiences that help children build confidence, friendships, and a strong sense of self.
We are also approved to participate in the Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood program, which helps eligible military families access high-quality early education with financial support. With bright classrooms, indoor and outdoor playscapes, a Kids Café, and a dedicated S T E A M lab, children feel safe, curious, and excited to learn each day.
School Features
- Child-focused learning activities with research-based curriculum
- Inviting classrooms with highly qualified and nurturing teachers
- Safe and secure environment with two security checkpoints
- Real-time updates through our parent communications app with photos, nap times and feeding times, and important school announcements
- Delicious, healthy meals in the Kids’ Café
- On-site supplemental enrichment classes (sports, music, arts, computers, foreign language) in our Enrichment Studio
- S.T.E.A.M. lab
- An open-door policy for daily check-ins
- Large indoor and outdoor playscapes
- Nursing room
- Family and community events
Academically-focused Programs
Arlington Campus Leadership
Angie Anderson
School Director
How long have you been with TGS?
I have been with TGS since 2016. I have worked at the Brentwood, Midtown, and Herndon locations.
Roles served at TGS:
Over the years, I have worked as an assistant teacher, lead teacher, curriculum coordinator, and assistant director.
What is your educational background?
I received my bachelor’s degree at Austin Peay State University.
What made you decide to have a career in education?
At a young age, I always knew I would work in education. I was inspired by my kindergarten teacher and my aunt, who was a speech pathologist in elementary schools.
What makes you laugh about kids?
Their honesty! I can always count on my students to give their honest opinions.
What do you love most about working with infants through the age of 5?
Ah! That’s a tough question because there are many things I love about working with children. Overall, I would have to say that I love watching them grow and transition to different classrooms. As a director, it is incredibly rewarding to be able to provide children and parents with a wonderful early childhood education (ECE) experience at our school.
What is your favorite part of the day at TGS?
Welcoming families in the morning. I love to hear how excited the children are to be returning to school to see their teacher and learn what activities we have planned for the day.
What do you love most about TGS?
I admire how TGS provides families with more than just excellent childcare; it offers a nurturing environment where children can thrive, families feel supported and empowered, and teachers receive the essential support they need to excel.
What is your fondest memory of TGS thus far?
Watching my last pre-K class graduate. It was during the pandemic, so we had to think outside the box and hold the ceremony in the school parking lot instead of indoors. It was truly a unique experience during a challenging time! It was amazing to see everyone come together to celebrate a big milestone for our little ones.
What inspires you?
I’m inspired by the dedication and passion of my teachers and the support and involvement of the families at school. Their commitment to education and creating a nurturing environment motivates me to strive for excellence every day.
What is your passion or passions?
My passion lies in nurturing curiosity and cultivating a love for learning in my students, guiding them to discover their unique talents and potential. Seeing their growth and development fuels my dedication to education every day.
How important is early childhood education?
Early childhood education is crucial as it lays a foundation for lifelong learning. It shapes a child’s cognitive, social, and emotional development, impacting their future academic success and overall well-being. Investing in quality early education sets children on a path toward fulfilling their potential and contributes to a more prosperous society.
What would you tell new parents who are apprehensive about leaving their infant in the care of someone else for the first time?
It’s completely natural to feel apprehensive about leaving your precious little one in someone else’s care for the first time. Your baby’s well-being is your top priority, and it’s understandable to have concerns about entrusting their care to another person. At TGS, we appreciate parents’ input and will do everything we can to make you feel comfortable and reassured.
Jay Gosha
Assistant Director
Jay loves the spark of excitement that fills the building each morning. Those first smiles, quick stories, and warm greetings set a positive tone for the school day and help him build meaningful connections with both children and families. Since joining The Gardner School in November 2025, he has enjoyed learning each child’s unique personality and supporting teachers in creating a thoughtful and joyful classroom experience.
He believes children feel most confident when they know they are truly seen. Jay focuses on calm reassurance, consistent encouragement, and taking the time to understand what matters most to each child — whether it’s a favorite toy, a new interest, or a small victory they’re proud of. His favorite moments are when a child proudly shows him something they’ve learned and their confidence shines through.
Jay holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Alabama State University and a Child Development Associate Certificate from Chattahoochee Valley Community College. “Seeing a child’s confidence grow, even in small steps, is the most rewarding part of my day.” he says.
Schedule a Tour
Please select a date and time that works best for you (tours are ~45 minutes). We recommend visiting in the morning between 9:30 – 11:30 am. Of course, we completely understand that is not always possible with families’ schedules and welcome families to join whenever is most convenient for you. If you aren't ready to tour yet or these times below don’t work for your family, use the Contact Us button below and we will coordinate a time together.
Contact Us
If you aren't yet ready to schedule a tour or the available times do not work for your family,
please click Contact Us to connect with someone from The Gardner School.
