Bernice M. Wright is one of two, early childhood education programs located on the South Campus of Syracuse University. We provide high-quality, developmentally appropriate, inclusive full-day care to children of benefits-eligible Syracuse University faculty, staff, and students. Following the University's academic calendar, the school offers classes during the hours of 7:30 a.m.—5:30 p.m. in the Academic Year and 7:30 a.m. — 5:00 p.m. in the Summer Sessions. The centers are open Monday through Friday. However, the School will not be in session when University classes are closed for holidays or hazardous weather. Public school closings usually do not affect the Child Development School. A calendar of events will be distributed to all parents at the beginning of each semester. The Bernice M. Wright (BMW) Child Development School serves children of diverse backgrounds and abilities between the ages of six weeks and five years old. Services to children with disabilities are provided through community collaboration with an early intervention provider. There are 12 full time staff members. Approximately 20 to 25 undergraduate students that serve as teachers, and 10 to 15 volunteers and student researchers participate in the school's activities. Wright Child Development School was founded in 1970 through the joint efforts of Syracuse University students, who were parents of young children, and the College for Human Development. The Child Development School serves Syracuse University as a school in early childhood education and research. Our unique facility offers a variety of small and large spaces for play. Our large, fenced-in outdoor spaces feature natural playscapes and gardens. The center provides expressive art materials that allow children to communicate their feelings, explore different concepts and discover themselves as learners. We maintain a secure, creative environment in which to encourage each child’s development of skills. The teachers provide a variety of appropriate open-ended activities and experiences, which allow your child to create and experiment with their own ideas. We are responsive to children’s needs and work to incorporate all domains of learning into the children’s everyday experiences at the center. We provide training and employment opportunities for Syracuse University students and collaborate within our university community. Center staff build strong relationships with the children and partner with families to ensure the best possible experience. Children become confident when they are given the freedom to test their theories repeatedly. We look forward to the possibility of having your child with us in the future. Applications are being accepted. For further information or to make an appointment to visit the school, please call 315-443-2471.
