The Gardner School of Manassas
Leading Preschool for Manassas Families in Prince William County
Families looking for an academically focused preschool program in Manassas can rely on our safe environment, experienced teachers, and kindergarten-readiness curriculum. The Gardner School of Manassas is designed to help our students thrive. We partner with families to provide children with a well-rounded education that encourages their emerging sense of self, enhances their social skills, and expands their intellectual exploration.
Curriculum-Based Learning in a Safe and Secure Environment
The Gardner School’s blended approach fosters an environment that enables children to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Our blended selection of research-based curricula — including Creative Curriculum, World of Wonders, Learning Without Tears, along with incorporating the Reggio Emilia approach — allows each class to build upon the previous year’s learning. Our highly qualified teachers routinely assess student growth and development and partner with parents to provide the best learning opportunities for students.
Now Welcoming Families for
TGS Manassas Using Virginia Child Care Subsidy
At The Gardner School of Manassas, we’re honored to partner with families by accepting Virginia ECC card payments through the Virginia Child Care Subsidy Program. Every child deserves an engaging, academically focused start, and this program helps more families access our warm and nurturing preschool community. Families can explore eligibility at childcare.virginia.gov.
The Gardner School of Manassas sits on a beautiful campus, featuring an interactive playground with a large amount of green space. Our playground spaces are certified by the Natural Start Alliance (North American Association for Environmental Education). In order to best serve the needs of our community, we offer educational preschool and early childhood programs for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years.
The Gardner School of Manassas is conveniently between Nokesville Road and Gateway Blvd near BP. As one of our many locations in northern Virginia, we primarily serve families in Manassas, Bristow, Nokesville, Gainesville, and the surrounding areas.
School Features
- Safe and secure environment
- Academically-focused learning with a blended curriculum
- Real-time updates and photos through our parent communications app
- Inviting classrooms with highly qualified preschool teachers
- An open-door policy for daily check-ins
- Yearly family and community events
- Now accepting Virginia ECC card payments as part of the Virginia Child Care Subsidy Program
Academically-focused Programs
Summer at TGS
Infants
Pre-K
Preschool
Toddlers
Twos
Manassas Campus Leadership
Jessica Kim
School Director
How long have you been with TGS?
I started with TGS in February 2024.
Roles served with TGS:
Executive School Director
What is your educational background?
I graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) with a bachelor’s degree in early teaching and education.
What made you decide to have a career in education?
I had a teacher who made me enjoy learning and love going to school. It inspired me to become a teacher because of how much love and effort she put into shaping me to be the best version of myself. That’s when I realized I wanted to do that for a career—to be a positive influence in someone’s life to help them become the best version of themselves.
What makes you laugh about kids?
Their sense of humor and how adventurous they are.
What do you love most about working with infants through the age of 5?
I love to watch their growth and development.
What is your favorite part of the day at TGS?
Getting to interact with the parents in the morning and at closing. It’s nice to build relationships with the families.
What do you love most about TGS?
The support they offer parents and their family-friendly environment.
What is your fondest memory of TGS thus far?
How welcoming everyone is at TGS and our Valentine’s Day celebration!
What inspires you?
People who support others and build them up to be better individuals.
What is your passion or passions?
I have a passion to learn, to teach, and to be a great leader for others.
How important is early childhood education?
Early childhood education is really important as it sets the foundation for your child’s future learning.
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 reassure parents how wonderful our teachers are! I’d highlight their skills and expertise and emphasize their commitment to caring for their students as if they were their own.
Laura Zavala
Assistant Director
What is your educational background, and what inspired you to pursue a career in early childhood education?
During high school I took some early education classes and loved it. After high school I started working with children and knew that I wanted to return to school to study Elementary Education and Psychology.
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 February 2013. I love being a part of this school community because over the years I have been able meet so many incredible people and have made so many friends!
What do you love most about working with children during their early years of development?
One of the things I love most about working with children in their early years is watching them grow and seeing their unique personalities begin to shine. I love to hear their fun stories, listen to their imaginations at work, and laugh along with the funny things they come up with and say. I also love that every day brings something new and no two days are ever the same.
What is the most rewarding part of your day at TGS?
The most rewarding part of my day is when I get to spend time with the children, and I get to see the joy on their faces when they learn something new and master a new skill or accomplish a task they’ve been working on. Those moments remind me why I love what I do.
Why do you believe quality early childhood education is important for a child’s development?
I believe quality early childhood education is essential because the early years are such a critical period in a child’s development. It’s a time when children’s brains are like sponges absorbing so much information, forming connections, and building the foundation for lifelong learning.
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 understand that leaving your child in someone else’s care for the first time can be emotional and even overwhelming, so I always encourage new parents to ask as many questions as they need—there’s truly no such thing as a silly or unimportant question when it comes to their child. I take as much time as needed to talk with parents, answer their questions, and provide support so they feel completely comfortable and confident. My goal is to make sure every family knows their little one will be cared for with love, respect, and attention in a safe and nurturing environment.
How do you partner with parents to support their child’s growth and learning journey?
I believe good communication between families and educators is the foundation of a child’s success. One way I partner with parents is by actively listening and creating an open, welcoming environment so we can collaborate. I like being available for a quick conversation even if it’s just to check in on how they are doing so we can build trust and we can make sure every family feels supported.
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.
