The Gardner School of Eagan

Nationally Accredited Through NAEYC With Curriculum-Based Learning

Our teachers are experienced, and highly-trained in early childhood education. They place a high priority on routinely assessing students’ growth and development to provide the best forms of care while providing a caring and nurturing environment to learn and grow. We are proud to have achieved the honor of national accreditation through the National Accreditation Commission for Early Care and Education Programs (NAEYC).

 

Safe and Secure Environment

The Gardner School of Eagan values safety and ensures a secure environment with its multiple security checkpoints, giving parents peace of mind.

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More than a traditional preschool or childcare facility, The Gardner School of Eagan is proud to offer our award-winning, academically-focused early childhood education program to the children and families of Eagan. With its thriving family-friendly community and recreational paradise, The Gardner School of Eagan meets and exceeds the needs of preschool families. We offer year-round educational programs for children 6 weeks old through 5 years. In addition, we provide a full suite of enrichment classes, along with our summer camp program, Camp Gardner. Our beautiful, festive, and safe facilities will make you feel right at home upon entering the classroom or walking past our playground areas.

Our school is conveniently located near the intersection of Yankee Doodle Road and Lexington Avenue S behind Chick-Fil-A.

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 large windows for natural light, with four-year degreed lead 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
  • Private nursing room

Academically-focused Programs

Summer at TGS

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Infants

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Pre-K

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Preschool

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Toddlers

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Twos

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Kindergarten

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Enrichment Classes

Amazing Athletes

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BeSmart Computers

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Music

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Soccer

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Spanish

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Yoga

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Eagan Campus Leadership

Meghan Knipp

School Director

What is your educational background, and what inspired you to pursue a career in early childhood education?
I have a bachelor’s degree in elementary education. Growing up, my mother provided in-home daycare, which is where I truly learned how exciting these first few years of life can be. I also volunteered at my local elementary school in a kindergarten class, and that’s where my love for teaching really flourished. I believe the best thing about education is playing such an important role in a child’s development and helping them discover who they are and who they can become.

How long have you been with TGS, and what excites you most about being part of this school community?
I have been with TGS since July 2018! I love that I can bring my daughter with me each day and watch her learn and grow alongside her friends. I also love the family events we host — they truly make TGS feel like one big family!

What do you love most about working with children during their early years of development?
I love how children are like little sponges — learning is fun for them! It’s so rewarding to see those “lightbulb” moments when they finally learn to sit up, write their name, or master a new skill. Being a stepping stone in a child’s life is incredibly fulfilling.

What is the most rewarding part of your day at TGS?
I love greeting families at drop-off and pick-up. I enjoy making a connection with each child and with the amazing parents and guardians who trust us every day. Plus, getting good morning hugs always starts my day on the best note!

Why do you believe quality early childhood education is important for a child’s development?
Early childhood education is crucial because it creates a foundation for lifelong learning. The tools children are adding to their toolboxes now will stay with them and be used throughout their lives.

How would you comfort and reassure new parents who may feel nervous about leaving their child in someone else’s care for the first time?
We have amazing teachers and staff here at TGS. They treat each child as if they were their own and care for your entire family’s needs when it comes to the well-being of your little one. It truly is the best place for your child to learn and grow!

How do you partner with parents to support their child’s growth and learning journey?
Communication is key! I’m always available in person, by phone, or by email.

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Ellie Dettwiler

Assistant Director

What is your educational background, and what inspired you to pursue a career in early childhood education?
I hold an MBA, and my undergraduate degree is in health education.

I’ve always had a heart for helping others, and working with children has been such a natural passion for me. As a mom of three—two of whom are proud TGS students—I’ve seen firsthand the joy and growth that comes from a nurturing school environment.

How long have you been with TGS, and what excites you most about being part of this school community?
I recently joined TGS, and I’m so excited to be part of this amazing community! I bring years of experience in child care, including time student teaching in the Twin Cities and working in Montessori, public, and private school settings across the metro. Most recently, I worked in a special intergenerational program where our child care center was connected to a senior living community. Watching children build daily bonds with their “grandfriends” through curriculum and events was incredibly rewarding.

What do you love most about working with children during their early years of development?
I absolutely love watching children’s eyes light up when they learn something new or reach a milestone. Their joy and excitement are contagious!

What is the most rewarding part of your day at TGS?
Seeing the kiddos’ smiling faces—nothing compares!

Share the name of a teacher who inspired you and describe how they influenced your approach to education.
My biggest inspiration has actually been my husband. He’s been a child care director since 2019, and I’ve loved supporting him and watching him grow his center. His passion for early childhood education inspired me to follow this path myself.

Why do you believe quality early childhood education is important for a child’s development?
Early childhood education helps children grow socially, emotionally, and intellectually, while also laying the foundation for their future success and happiness. It’s such an important chapter in their lifelong journey.

How would you comfort and reassure new parents who may feel nervous about leaving their child in someone else’s care for the first time?
I would listen and validate their feelings while also giving them a window into their child’s day through Brightwheel. Sending pictures and updates helps reassure parents that their little one is safe, happy, and thriving. Most of all, I would work to build trust by caring for their child as if they were my own.

How do you partner with parents to support their child’s growth and learning journey?
I believe open and ongoing communication is key. I love sharing special milestones and little moments of joy with parents so they feel connected and confident in their child’s learning journey.

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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.