West Hartford’s Premier Preschool Since 1927
Nearly 100 Years of Quality Early Childhood Education in Connecticut
For nearly a century, Knight Hall School has been West Hartford’s trusted choice for families seeking exceptional preschool and early childhood education. Since 1927, we’ve provided high-quality programs for toddlers, preschoolers, and kindergarteners grounded in research-based practices, individualized learning, and a commitment to helping every child thrive.
As one of Connecticut’s longest-running early childhood education centers, Knight Hall combines the wisdom of experience with current best practices in child development. Our full-day programs serve working families in West Hartford, Hartford, and surrounding communities with care from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm.
Our History: Hartford’s First Nursery School
Founded in 1927 as a Model Program
Knight Hall School began as Hartford’s first nursery school when Dr. Edna Baxter, a professor at Hartford Seminary, created a pioneering early childhood program. Dr. Baxter established core values that continue to define our preschool today:
- Individual attention for each child’s unique development
- Multicultural education celebrating diverse backgrounds
- Nature-based learning connecting children to the environment
- Research-based curriculum rooted in child development theory
- Family partnerships supporting parents and caregivers
By 1931, our innovative approach to early childhood education had created a waiting list, and educators from across Connecticut came to study our methods as the preschool movement grew nationally.
Evolution Through the Decades
As families’ needs changed, Knight Hall adapted while maintaining our commitment to quality:
1950s-1960s: Expanded our nursery school program with enhanced materials, outdoor play spaces, and professional development for teachers
1970s: Introduced full-day childcare programs for working parents, providing consistency of care throughout the day while maintaining our educational standards
1980s-Present: Found our permanent home in West Hartford at the former Smith School on St. James Street, where we continue to serve families today
Through economic challenges and educational trends, devoted educators and parents have consistently preserved Knight Hall’s mission: providing exceptional early childhood education that respects each child as an individual.
Why Choose Knight Hall School?
A Trusted West Hartford Preschool and Childcare Center
When you choose Knight Hall for your child’s early education, you’re selecting:
- Nearly 100 years of experience in early childhood education
- Research-based curriculum aligned with child development best practices
- Small class sizes ensuring individual attention
- Experienced, dedicated teachers committed to professional growth
- Extended day programs (7:30 am – 5:30 pm) for working families
- Diverse, inclusive community welcoming families from all backgrounds
- Convenient West Hartford location serving Hartford County families
Programs for Every Stage
Knight Hall School offers programs for:
- Toddlers (early childhood education)
- Preschool (3 and 4-year-olds)
- Kindergarten
- Extended day care
- Summer programs
Visit Our West Hartford Preschool
Located in West Hartford, Connecticut, Knight Hall School has been nurturing young learners since 1927. We invite you to learn more about how our time-tested approach to early childhood education can benefit your child.
Ready to learn more? Explore our educational philosophy and programs or schedule a visit to see why generations of Hartford-area families have trusted Knight Hall School with their children’s early education.
Knight Hall School 