In January of 1964, Saxon Hill School, Inc. served its first group of young children and their families. Founded by DeeDee Jameson and Willy Cochran, the school was located in DeeDee's home on Skunk Hollow Road--what was known as the "Saxon Hill" area of Jericho.

The school's success was largely due to the commitment that parents and teachers brought to a "hands-on" education philosophy in which children were encouraged to investigate, explore, and create. Children were respected as young human beings of great value. Families were supported in their wishes to be involved in their children's education.

In the ensuing years, the school saw many changes, including moves from one location to another, the modification of programs to meet the changing needs of families, and the retirement of Willy Cochran and DeeDee Jameson (who remained a "silent partner" in an advisory capacity to the board until her death in 2001).

The success of the school is amazing and can be attributed to the deep commitment that parents bring to their children and the school's philosophy and mission. Being a Saxon Hill School family means more than filling out forms and writing tuition checks. It means making a commitment to participate in a cooperative educational adventure.

Our Philosophy

SHS cares most that your child is successful and happy. Every child is eager and ready to learn at an individual and particular level of readiness. Our curriculum reflects that individuality, and we strive to facilitate the development of competencies. Throughout the year, both teachers and parents will keep in touch with each child's personal learning needs. With the appropriate tools and materials, and the guidance of trained adults, each child will gain knowledge and develop skills to the degree that is right for him or her.

Saxon Hill School strives:

• To nurture an excitement for learning
• To encourage children to investigate, explore and create through a holistic approach to education
• To permit children to enjoy themselves and the wonders and joys of being 3-, 4-, or 5-year-olds
• To recognize that self-esteem grows from processing knowledge and skills in a variety of areas
• To help children develop skills to resolve conflicts and assume responsibility for their actions
• To stimulate children's creativity, autonomy, and ability to take risks as they travel a path of life-long learning
• To keep learning active rather than passive
• To recognize that every experience is an opportunity to learn

NAEYC Accreditation

Saxon Hill School, Inc. earned NAEYC accreditation for its programs for children from 3 years through kindergarten age since 1998.

Early childhood programs accredited by the National Academy of Early Childhood Programs have voluntarily undergone a comprehensive process of internal self-study, invited external professional review to verify compliance with the Criteria for High-Quality Early Childhood Programs, and have been found to be in substantial compliance. (A copy of the criteria can be obtained from the NAEYC Academy.)

In accredited programs, you will see:

• Frequent, positive, warm interactions among adults and children
• Planned learning activities appropriate to children's age and development, such as block building, painting, reading stories, dress-up, and active outdoor play
• Specially trained teachers
• Enough adults to respond to individual children
• Many varied, age-appropriate materials
• A healthy and safe environment for children
• Nutritious snacks
• Regular communication with parents who are welcome visitors at all times
• Effective administration
• On-going, systematic evaluation

Mission Statement

Saxon Hill School, Incorporated is committed to working in partnership with families and communities to educate and support children while heeding their individual needs for growth and development.