Located in Richmond’s Short Pump area, Chesterbrook Academy Preschool, situated on Old Pump Road, stands as a benchmark of excellence in early childhood education. Since 1996, this valued institution has been serving the Wellesley, West Broad Village, Church Run, and Ridge communities with a distinctive approach that perfectly balances structured learning with playful exploration. More than just a daycare center, Chesterbrook Academy creates a nurturing environment where young minds flourish through thoughtfully designed programs that prepare children for future academic success.
This year marks the 40th anniversary of Chesterbrook Academy’s dedication to educating young learners across the country. What began as a single preschool in 1985 has blossomed into a network of schools spanning eight states, unified by shared commitments to high-quality education, character development, and community values. At the Short Pump location, these principles come to life daily as dedicated teachers guide children through experiences that foster not just academic growth but personal development that builds confidence, independence, and a lifelong love of learning.
Chesterbrook Academy’s educational foundation rests on its proprietary Links to Learning curriculum, a framework created by experts in early childhood, elementary, and secondary education. This innovative approach goes beyond traditional preschool programs by thoughtfully connecting multiple learning experiences tailored to each child’s unique interests and developmental stage. For instance, a simple block-building activity becomes an opportunity to simultaneously develop language skills through color identification, mathematical thinking through counting, and fine motor skills through careful stacking and balancing.
What truly sets Links to Learning apart is its holistic structure built around seven core components that address every aspect of early childhood development. Rather than viewing curriculum as a collection of isolated lessons, Chesterbrook Academy integrates learning across multiple domains, creating meaningful connections that help children understand concepts more deeply. This approach recognizes that young children learn best through play and exploration, transforming everyday activities into rich educational experiences that children enjoy so thoroughly they often don’t realize they’re developing crucial skills for kindergarten and beyond.
Chesterbrook Academy Preschool welcomes children from 6 weeks through Pre-K2, with tailored programs designed to meet the developmental needs of each age group. Understanding the demands of modern family schedules, the school operates from 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM, Monday through Friday, providing reliable childcare with extended hours that accommodate working parents. This flexibility, combined with the school’s commitment to quality education, makes it a sought-after choice for families in the Short Pump area.
Safety remains a top priority at Chesterbrook Academy, with robust security measures evident from the moment visitors enter the building. Access is restricted to enrolled families, staff, and registered visitors who must check in at the front desk, present identification, and wear visitor badges while on the premises. Additionally, only authorized adults are permitted to pick up children, ensuring a secure environment where parents can feel confident about their children’s well-being. Beyond physical safety, the school provides nutritious meals—breakfast, lunch, and afternoon snacks—carefully crafted to accommodate various preferences and dietary restrictions.
Chesterbrook Academy understands that choosing the right preschool involves careful financial consideration. While tuition rates vary based on program and schedule, the school offers several assistance options to help make quality education accessible. Families with multiple enrolled children may qualify for sibling discounts, and a referral program provides the opportunity to earn a free week of tuition. Additionally, Chesterbrook Academy partners with local companies to offer employee discounts, reflecting their commitment to serving the broader Richmond community.
Communication between teachers and families forms a cornerstone of the Chesterbrook Academy experience. Through the innovative Links 2 Home app, parents receive daily updates about their child’s activities, meals, and achievements, creating a transparent window into their school day. Monthly folders track progress and suggest at-home activities that reinforce classroom learning, while regular assessments and parent-teacher conferences ensure ongoing dialogue about each child’s development. This collaborative approach recognizes parents as essential partners in education, fostering a supportive community where children thrive through consistent care and guidance both at school and home.
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