The Riverside Church Weekday School is a progressive, play-based, independent early childhood school serving families with children ages two through five. Ours is a diverse community that fosters sharing, understanding, and respect while focusing on the social, emotional and physical development of each child and where each child's unique gifts are celebrated.
We are dedicated to teaching children to become confident learners, passionate explorers, and discerning risk-takers.
Quick Stats (2025)
- School Type: Early Childhood / Day Care
- Grades: Prekindergarten-Kindergarten
- Enrollment: 49 students
- Yearly Tuition: $23,000
- Average class size: 14 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
School Overview
School Type
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-Kindergarten
Year Founded
1930
Summer School Offered
Yes
School Calendar
Student Body
Total Students
49 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
9 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
5:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
90%
Average Class Size
14 students
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$23,000
Tuition Notes
Tuition depends of age, program and length of day.
Summer Program Cost Notes
Please call or email to request price information.
% on Financial Aid
40%
Admissions Director
Daina Cernauskas
School Notes
- In our efforts to meet our educational and community goals, The Weekday School curriculum draws upon a blend of progressive and traditional approaches to encourage children to use all their senses and skills to develop socially and emotionally. Our teachers offer compelling learning opportunities and work collaboratively to create a loving community of learners.
- The school resides on the seventh floor of the MLK Wing of the Riverside Church. The school was specifically designed as early childhood learning environments and feature bright, spacious classrooms with large, arching windows overlooking the Hudson River and the Upper West Side.
- The Weekday School offers expansive outdoor and indoor play areas as well as as access to neighboring parks
- At our Weekday "Sings", families are invited as the entire school sings together
- We believe in food and water equity. All snacks and lunches are provided to our entire student body. We have access to a filter water station which is where we get our drinking water.
- Through participation in the Parents' Association, families provide leadership and assistance with school social and fundraising events.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Riverside Church Weekday School cost?
Riverside Church Weekday School's tuition is approximately $23,000 for private students.
When is the application deadline for Riverside Church Weekday School?
The application deadline for Riverside Church Weekday School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
School Reviews
5 2/15/2025
I'm a proud parent of a gifted alum and a current student. For both, Weekday is their happy place.For a preschool—to prepare early learners for the daily routines, patterns, and curriculum models of elementary institutions—this facility is an ideal place. Unlike other ECL options in the area, this school is in a real building, NOT a converted apartment unit.Upon entering any classroom, the sweeping views of Morningside Heights, Riverside Park, and the Hudson River should inform any parent that this is a special place.Well-educated and caring faculty create a warm and nurturing environment to inspire toddlers to thrive at their ABC's, 123's, art, music and dance, and sciences.One will also find that this school attracts kind and empowering parents to its community.
5 12/27/2024
My son is in his second year at the Weekday School. He has really blossomed at the school, and the Weekday community has grown to be a big part of all of our lives.The kids have lots of time for play, both in the sunny classrooms with views of the river and in their two outdoor playgrounds and indoor gym. Although the school is play-based, they also do a lot of learning through play! I've been amazed at how my son's writing ability has grown this year.The specials (library, art, music, and dance) are also a real highlight of the weekday school. My son has been bringing home amazing art projects and showing us the songs and dances that he learned at school. Most importantly, the teachers are so experienced and caring. They really get to know each child as an individual, and my son has bonded very strongly with his teachers.Ms. Daina, the director, is incredibly warm, dedicated, and accessible. She knows all the children, is involved on a day-to-day level, and provides a lot of guidance for the kindergarten application process.We have had a wonderful experience with the weekday school. It is a magical place for children!
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