The Gardner School of Chicago - Bucktown
Nationally Accredited Through NAEYC With Curriculum-Based Learning
Our learning atmosphere at The Gardner School of Chicago–Bucktown nurtures intellectual growth through a variety of visual and audio aids, educational toys, games, puzzles, and learning supplies and is centered around curriculum-based lessons, child-directed activities, and structured play. Your child will also have access to Creative Curriculum, World of Wonders Curriculum, and Learning without Tears Curriculum. We are proud to have achieved the honor of national accreditation through the National Accreditation Commission for Early Care and Education Programs (NAEYC).
Indoor Playscape and On-Site Enrichment Courses
With our state-of-the-art preschool environment and colorful and safe play areas, students and parents will feel safe and at home from the moment they enter The Gardner School of Chicago-Bucktown. Your child will love our indoor playscape and enrichment room, where we encourage learning and development through our variety of programs your child can participate in.
The Gardner School of Chicago-Bucktown preschool offers year-round full- and part-time childcare with early childhood education programs for children six weeks old through 5 years. In addition, we also provide a full suite of enrichment classes and our summer camp, Camp Gardner. All of our classrooms are led by highly-qualified teachers who have a passion for helping young children learn and thrive. The stimulating, creative, and educationally-engineered school has been designed to meet the needs of our most important client—the children. Attention to detail both inside and outside the classroom is what makes The Gardner School of Chicago-Bucktown a very special place for young children.
Our preschool is located less than 1/4 mile off the Kennedy Expressway (90/94) at the intersection of North Avenue and Ashland, next to Orangetheory.
School Features
- Academically-focused learning with research-based curriculum
- NAEYC Accredited
- Real-time updates through the parent communications app with photos, nap and feeding times, and school announcements
- Safe and secure environment with two security checkpoints
- Inviting classrooms with degreed lead preschool teachers
- Delicious, healthy meals in the Kids’ Café
- On-site supplemental enrichment classes (sports, music and arts, computers, foreign language) in our enrichment studio and computer lab
- Open-door policy for daily check-ins
- Indoor playscape and enrichment room
- Kindergarten preparation
- Close-knit family involvement and participation
Academically-focused Programs
Summer at TGS
Infants
Pre-K
Preschool
Toddlers
Twos
Enrichment Classes
BeSmart Computers
Gymnastics
Music
Spanish
Yoga
Sports
Martial Arts
Techie Kids
Chicago - Bucktown Campus Leadership
Megan Olson
School Director
How long have you been with TGS?
Since February 2015
I began working at The Gardner School of Bucktown in 2015 as a floater teacher. Since then, I have been a lead teacher in a toddler classroom, a two-year-old classroom, a three-year-old classroom, and also the Assistant Director. In January 2020 I was promoted to Director of TGS Bucktown.
I graduated from DePaul University in 2014 with a B.A. in Psychology with a concentration in Human Development.
I have wanted to work in the education field since I was very young. My mom was an elementary and middle school teacher, so I was definitely inspired by her to become a teacher myself.
I love how honest kids are. They have no filter, which leads to some pretty hilarious conversations. There is never a dull moment when working with little ones.
I love that we get to be a part of the lives of children as they go through so many important stages of development. It is exciting to see how much they grow and learn from the time they start at The Gardner School to the time they leave for Kindergarten.
Mornings are my favorite! It is heartwarming to see how excited the kids are to come to school to see their friends and teachers.
What is your fondest memory of TGS thus far?
My fondest memory of TGS was our first ever Pre-K graduation at Bucktown. To watch the children walk across the stage in their caps and gowns was such an amazing moment.
What is your passion or passions?
I am very passionate about education. I would not be where I am if it weren’t for my education, and I am very grateful for all my wonderful teachers who helped me develop a love for learning.
How important is early childhood education?
Early childhood education is an extremely important part of a child’s overall education. It is during the early years of a child’s life that they first discover how rewarding school and learning can be.
Gloria Plascencia
Assistant Director
How long have you been with TGS?
I have been with TGS since January of 2016.
Roles served at TGS:
Since starting at TGS, I have been a Floater, Toddler Assistant Teacher, Lead Toddler Teacher, a Twos Lead Teacher, and finally the Assistant Director of Bucktown.
What is your educational background?
I have a bachelor’s degree in business administration. In 2019, I returned to school to get my director credentials in early childhood education.
What made you decide on a career in education?
After college, I started working at a center in Chicago. I quickly learned that this was more than just a regular job to me. It became something I grew passionate about. Being able to have a small part in helping to shape young minds and make a positive impact on them was very rewarding for me. That is when I decided to go back to school for early childhood education.
What makes you laugh about kids?
Kids will say just about ANYTHING! This makes me laugh the most. They are brutally honest and I love that about them.
What do you love most about working with infants through the age of 5?
I love being able to be a part of their growth and development. This age is very crucial and being able to see the changes from infants to pre-K is amazing. Plus, I love all the HUGS!
What is your favorite part of the day at TGS?
My favorite part of the day at TGS is the mornings. I love being the first face the families see as they are walking in. Our smiles are contagious, and I believe it sets the tone for the day.
What do you love most about TGS?
I love the bonds I have built over the years with the children, families, and staff. TGA has become a second family to me.
What is your fondest memory of TGS thus far?
My fondest memory of TGS would have to be my first fall festival. I loved watching all the families dress up and come together with the other families and teachers for some family fun.
What inspires you?
Children inspire me. I once read a quote that has stuck with me ever since I read it: “So often you find that the students you are trying to inspire are the ones that end up inspiring you!” –Sean Junkins
What is your passion or passions?
I am passionate about life, being happy, and living life to the fullest. I love the simple things and make the most out of every situation. I believe in creating beauty, giving back, and always serving our highest purpose.
How important is early childhood education?
Early childhood education is very important! I believe it prepares children to develop the social and emotional skills they need to succeed and prepare them for the future. The early years play a very crucial role in the development of the brain.
What would you tell new parents who are apprehensive about leaving their infant in the care of someone else for the first time?
I would remind them how amazing our teachers are and how we are here to support them through each step of this new process. The teachers treat each child as their own. I have watched these teachers create long-lasting relationships with families.
What TGS Parents Are Saying
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.
