Windmill Day School & Camp

There is no better place for pre school through kindergarten then Windmill. They truly take care of all three of our girls. They were well beyond prepared for first grade. Both in educational and social skills. Simple things like making eye contact, being kind and respectful is something they all learned at windmill and something we always appreciated. And both of our older girls where reading half way through kindergarten. I don’t want to forget about camp, there is no better. Always doing such cool things each summer and our girls love it every year. We are blessed to have such a great school and camp in this community

Cannot say enough about Windmill! Our 3 year old has been there for nearly a year and I've been blown away by everything and everyone. Teachers and staff truly care about the children. Safety is the utmost importance. Classrooms small enough that teachers really know the students. No staff turnover. Kids are outside for a lot of the day, going on long walks on the pretty grounds and playing on the playground and basketball court. Solid curriculum too - at only 3 years old I'm constantly impressed by what he's learning. Special events held throughout the year that go above and beyond what's expected of a school - because they care that much. Our son has really blossomed and made so many friends since he's started. Every morning he runs in without so much as looking back to say bye to me! I never have to worry about my son while I am working which is all I can ask for - I know staff watch the kids like their own, and that he's having fun!

I started camp here when I was six, continued as a C.I.T. & J.C., then was honored to work full time throughout a few years. I couldn’t think of more knowledgeable, experienced and nurturing group of people to care for our next generations!

We have been members of the Windmill family for 5 years now. Our youngest will be there another two years (and our older child still wonders why they don’t have first grade!). Windmill has been, and continues to be, in our experience, far above average in every possible way. If you are considering a school, there are some important things about Windmill that you should know, especially as you compare them to other schools. First, the teachers are all amazing, and turnover is essentially zero - they are, to a person, wonderful, caring, kind people, and they stay (in the world of child care this alone is amazing) because they get what a special place it is, and that they, the teachers are part of the magic. Next, Windmill is focused on learning - but not just academics. Certainly your kids will learn to read, write, and add (and Windmill sets the bar high there, no question), the work is rigorous and each child gets the attention they need to excel. Beyond that, though, Windmill truly values teaching kids to be kind, caring humans, to be good friends, to be good citizens, good to nature and aware of the good in others. This super focus on teaching kids to be kind, caring people is another thing that sets them apart. Third, Windmill values play, and having kids outside, and makes sure they are a part of everyday. This is a huge difference and has been an amazing part of each day for both my kids - they are outside everyday it is remotely possible, in the fresh air, playing in ways both organized and not. Having the chance to be outside everyday, to take advantage of the Windmill’s proximity to Peace Valley Park helps them focus when it’s time to learn, to use their pent-up little kid energy well, and learn to roll with the weather and enjoy the outdoors. We love that our kids come home tired, and sometimes kind of dirty ;), they are lucky to get the chance! Our family is not originally from the area, and we do not have extended family here. Windmill has been an amazing blessing for us, because we know our kids are safe, learning and loved each and every day they are there. They have given us a family here, where we are, to rely on, and be a part of. We are proud to be a part of the Windmill family and are grateful to be able to send our kids to such an amazing place. These are just a few of the reasons we love Windmill - there are so many more! Please know it’s worth exploring if it’s the right fit for your family!

I cannot say enough positive things about Windmill. First and foremost, the staff treats everyone (parents, children, etc) like their own family. The Love is Real. My daughter started attending Windmill at 16 months old, and they made the transition for her as seamless as possible, from drop-off, to meal-time, to nap, to pick-up. Windmill keeps children safe and happy, and lets them be CHILDREN. The school, which is also an amazing summer-camp, has so much acreage right near Lake Galena, and the children spend so much of their time out doors in the fresh, healthy air. There are so many qualities this school/camp has, it's truly an amazing place. Go check it out!