Peconic Community School Moves to Aquebogue, Adds Preschool

A school that began with only eight students and a vision is expanding.

The Peconic Community School, which launched last year in downtown Riverhead, has new students registered, as well as additional staffers and a preschool scheduled for fall -- has a move planned, to Aquebogue's Our Redeemer Lutheran Church property.

The Peconic Community School, which kicked off its first semester last year at East End Arts in downtown Riverhead, has since worked to build curriculum, and continue its philosophy of bringing students out to learn on the local canvas, with trips to local farms and museums and a spotlight on community service projects.

Now, the facility is looking to spread its wings.

“We’ve been getting a lot of calls, visits and applications and expect enrollment to at least double next year,” Liz Casey Searl, co-executive director of the school, said.
Big news for fall: PCS will also launch a small early childhood program, using the same theoretical approach as the elementary school.

“Since the children are younger, the program will be even more play-based and will emphasize arts, nature and exploration, instilling wonder and joy each day,” Casey Searl explained.

Three new teachers have been hired, she added. “We simply could not be more thrilled with our staff for next year. Their experience, passion, expertise and understanding of holistic education is unparalleled. Our school community is so fortunate to have them on board.”

The move is geared toward giving the school room to grow.  “We were so happy at East End Arts. It was a beautiful, home-like campus and the community was wonderful. It is hard to leave, but this is also a great opportunity for the school," Casey Searl said.

A new space will be leased at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Aquebogue, to allow for new classrooms, a playground, and garden -- with a goat farm across the street. 

“While the two entities will of course be completely independent and distinct, the church board has been very receptive to the idea of a new school here. We’re quite grateful," she said.

PCS employes  a holistic approach, providing an educational environment that aims to nourish  the intellectual as well as the social, emotional and spiritual dimensions of development -- with an eye toward bringing local organizations and community groups into the educational process.

A "Celebration of Education" fundraiser for PCS will be held on August 11 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Golden Earthworm Organic Farm in Jamesport. The event will feature a guest speaker, live music, local wine and beer, light farm fare, a student gallery and a silent auction. Tickets are $75, and are available by clicking here.  All proceeds support Peconic Community School.