Thursday, February 12, 2026–10:50 a.m.
-Darlington School News Release-
Darlington School has announced plans to expand its Pre-K through second-grade division over the next four years, responding to strong demand from local families and reflecting a long-term commitment to excellence in early childhood education.
“Over the past several years, Darlington has closely analyzed enrollment trends, local demographics, and program goals within its primary and lower grades,” said Head of School Brent Bell. “As a result of this careful planning, the school is pleased to share an exciting, multi-year growth plan for the Cottages, Darlington’s purpose-built learning environment for its youngest students.”
Beginning with the 2026-2027 school year, Darlington will expand its Pre-K program to serve up to 30 students.
“This expansion reflects what we are seeing and hearing from families – there is significant interest in Darlington’s early learning programs,” said Bell. “Just as importantly, it reflects our belief that early childhood education deserves the same intentionality, investment, and excellence that define the entire Darlington experience.”
Under the continued leadership of longtime Pre-K teacher Beth Smith (’87), the Pre-K program will add an additional certified teacher, joining current teaching assistant Kristy Garrett. The class will continue to operate as a single, unified cohort, with students moving fluidly between whole-group instruction and individualized small-group learning. With the additional teacher, the student-to-teacher ratio will decrease from 18:1 to approximately 15:1.
This summer, learning spaces in the Pre-K and Kindergarten Cottage will be thoughtfully expanded and reimagined to align with best practices in early childhood education.
“Lower student-to-teacher ratios, intentionally designed spaces, and highly qualified educators are all critical components of a strong foundation,” said Hope Jones, director of the Pre-K to 8 division. “This investment allows us to meet children where they are while nurturing their academic curiosity, confidence, and love of learning.”
Once the Class of 2040 reaches the Pre-K enrollment cap, the cohort will remain intact through the early primary years. Unless a space becomes available due to the departure of a student, no additional students will be admitted until third grade, when the class transitions from the Cottages to the main academic building, Thatcher Hall. This approach prioritizes stability, continuity, and community during the most formative years of a child’s education.
The Pre-K expansion represents the first phase of a carefully sequenced, multi-year plan for the Cottages. In the following year, Darlington will expand its Kindergarten program in a similar model, operating as a single class with an additional certified teacher. As the Class of 2040 progresses, two capped sections of first and second grade will be introduced.
“This is thoughtful, sustainable growth,” Bell said. “We are expanding in a way that protects what families value most – relationships, continuity, and a deep understanding of each child – while positioning the school to meet future demand.”
Throughout the expansion, the Cottages will continue to reflect Darlington’s warm, relationship-centered culture, a curriculum grounded in curiosity, play, structure, and early literacy, and close collaboration among teachers, specialists, and parents.
“Our Pre-K through second-grade team is genuinely excited about this next chapter,” said Jones. “This expansion strengthens an already exceptional experience for our youngest students and ensures the Cottages will continue to serve families with care, intention, and excellence for years to come.”
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