Dear Torah School Families and Friends,
For over 31 years, Torah School has been a trusted light for life, guiding children in Torah, academics, and community. Today, I am delighted to share that this light will now begin even earlier.
Beginning in August 2026, Torah School will open a dedicated Early Childhood division for ages 2–4.
This program will offer:
- A designated preschool wing with its own secure entrance and enclosed courtyard, designed especially for our youngest learners.
- Warm, professional leadership under the direction of Mrs. Talia Hollander, whose vision and experience will bring this new division to life.
- Intentional education where Torah is lived, not just taught. Shabbos songs, Yom Tov projects, middos, and ruach will be part of every day.
- Strong academic and social foundations that prepare children for the Torah School curriculum and beyond.
- Convenience for families with one drop-off, with options for early drop-off and after-care.
This expansion reflects our commitment to meet the needs of our community while staying true to our mission: raising Torah-true Jews who can thrive in the modern world. With this new division, we are proud to provide a seamless path beginning at age two.
More details will follow in the coming weeks, including opportunities to tour the space and learn more about the program.
With gratitude to Hashem for this opportunity, and with excitement for the bright future ahead,
Rabbi Shmuel Lichtenstein
Head of School
Torah School of Greater Washington
Meet the Director
We are proud to introduce Mrs. Talia Hollander as our Director of Early Childhood.
Mrs. Hollander brings years of educational and leadership experience, along with a warmth that children and parents connect to immediately.
- BS in Education with certification in Early Childhood and Elementary Education
- Former Judaic Studies Principal and classroom teacher
- Extensive experience in early intervention (birth to age 3)
- Director of a camp for 400 children ages 2–7, overseeing staff, programming, and daily operations
- Curriculum writer and teacher mentor
She is already working with top mentors and exemplary preschools to ensure our program is best-in-class. Parents will have an opportunity to meet her and the preschool team well before the first day of school.
Additional Information for Prospective Parents
When will the preschool open?
Torah School is proud to open its dedicated Early Childhood division in August 2026. Licensing is underway and on track, leadership is in place, and classrooms are secured. Families can trust this as a natural expansion of Torah School’s 31 years of excellence.
What ages will the preschool serve?
Children who turn 2 years old before September 1, 2026 are eligible. We will have separate classes for 2s, 3s, and 4s (Pre-K). Under-2 daycare is not part of the plan for next year and may be explored in the future.
Where will the preschool be located?
The preschool will have its own dedicated wing, entrance, and secure courtyard. It will be a “small school within the school,” designed just for young children. Renderings are being developed to help parents picture the space.
Will my little child feel safe in such a big school?
Yes! The preschool is designed as a child-sized space within a larger, trusted institution. With its own wing, private entrance, and courtyard, little ones will feel safe, secure, and nurtured.
Who will lead the preschool program?
The program will be directed by Mrs. Talia Hollander, a warm and energetic leader with a clear vision for preschool. Staff hiring will prioritize warm, Torah-true teachers with professional training and genuine care.
What is the educational approach?
This is an educational preschool, not daycare. Activites (play, projects, songs, and routines) will be intentional and designed to prepare children for the kindergarten and 1st grade Torah School curriculum.
Is it Montessori? Play-based? Reggio?
We won’t box ourselves into one pedagogy. We will blend the best of early childhood education with a Torah School lens: readiness, intentionality, and living Judaism daily.
What will my child experience day-to-day?
Even at age 2, children will experience foundational learning in pre-literacy and pre-numeracy skills, alongside Hebrew and English letters, numbers, Shabbos songs, holiday projects, middos programs, and ruach assemblies, all in ways designed for their developmental stage.
How many children will be in each class?
Classes will have approximately 12 children, with low ratios to ensure individualized attention.
What are the school hours? Will you offer early-care or after-care?
The school day runs from 8:15 AM to 3:30 PM, with options for early drop-off and after-care for an additional fee.
How will drop-off and pick-up work?
Dedicated preschool staff will greet children at carpool each morning and escort them at carpool each afternoon, ensuring a safe, smooth, and personal hand-off every day.
What steps are being taken to ensure safety and age-appropriateness?
Montgomery County’s Office of Child Care Licensing has already visited and was impressed with our facilities and preschool plan. We have also engaged a consultant to ensure the highest safety and early-childhood standards.
Will the preschool accept CCS and WPA vouchers?
Yes. The preschool is in the process of finalizing all licensing and voucher program approvals, including CCS and WPA.
Is leadership stable?
Yes. Leadership is in place, and the program sits within Torah School’s strong and experienced administrative structure. Families can feel confident that their children are in steady, capable hands.
What about tuition?
Tuition details are being finalized and will be shared soon.
