A Guide to Reggio School in Jersey City (2026–2027)

The Reggio Emilia approach—which values the child as a "competent researcher" and treats the environment as the "third teacher"—is the hallmark of several standout local institutions.

Here are the primary Reggio-inspired schools in Jersey City, including their 2026–2027 tuition and what makes them unique.

1. The Scandinavian School of Jersey City | 210 9th St, Jersey City

Approx. Annual Tuition (2026-2027)

• Preschool: $2,900 monthly

• Forest Kindergarten: $3,150 Monthly

What Makes It Special: SSJC is the an authentic Reggio-inspired environment in the city, blending it with Nordic values. It is famous for its Trollskogen (Forest School) track, where children spend the majority of their day outdoors in local parks, learning through direct interaction with nature. Inside, the "atelier" (art studio) is the heart of the school, using natural materials like clay, charcoal, and wood.

Website: https://www.scandischool.com/

2. The Liberty School | 203 Christopher Columbus Dr

Approx. Annual Tuition (2026-2027):

• Toddlers : ~$2,200 monthly

• Preschool: ~$2,100 monthly

What Makes It Special: This is one of the newest Reggio-inspired facilities in the Downtown area. It stands out for its intentional architecture—the classrooms are designed natural light to act as the "third teacher." They are particularly committed to Documentation, creating beautiful, museum-like displays of children’s work and dialogue to show parents the "evolution of a thought."

Website: https://www.thelibertyschooljc.com/

3. Three Little Birds | 130 Monitor St

Approx. Monthly Tuition:

• Infants (5 Days): ~$2,100 monthly ($25,200/year).

• Preschool (5 Days): ~$1,600 monthly ($19,200/year).

What Makes It Special: This school excels at Project-Based Learning. Rather than following a rigid calendar, teachers observe what children are curious about—be it shadows, insects, or city buses—and build multi-week "investigations" around those topics. It feels like a boutique community hub where social-emotional development is prioritized alongside academic inquiry.

Website: https://www.threelittlebirdsjc.com/

4. Garden Preschool Cooperative | 242 10th St

Approx. Monthly Tuition: ~$2,200 monthly

What Makes It Special: As a cooperative, this school is unique because parents play an active role in the school's daily operations and governance. It is a "pure" play-based Reggio environment where the curriculum is 100% emergent. It’s perfect for families who want to be deeply involved in their child's first educational experience and value a strong sense of neighborhood community.

Website: https://gardenpreschoolcoop.org/