The Nest Schools

The Nest Schools offers infant care, young toddler, older toddler, preschool, pre-K, kindergarten, school-age, summer camp, and before and after school care. Its infant program is called Hummingbirds and focuses on individual needs. Young toddlers are in Ducklings, where children explore and play with peers and learn through routines and experiences. Older toddlers are in Cardinals, preschoolers are in Penguins, and pre-K children are in Robins or Pre-K Masters.

Programs

• Infants (Hummingbirds) — Infants · Nurturing infant program with teachers focused on individual needs.
• Young Toddlers (Ducklings) — Young toddlers · Exploration and play with peers; supports learning through routines and experiences.
• Older Toddlers (Cardinals) — Older toddlers · Supports independence, exploration of emotions and feelings, and language development.
• Preschool (Penguins) — Preschool · Play-based program for young preschoolers who are eager to learn, experiment, explore, and focus on set activities.
• Pre-K (Robins) — Pre-K · Program for older preschoolers focused on learning, development, and personal interests.
• Pre-K Masters (Parrots / Year 2 / bridge program) — Pre-K · Designed for children who need a third year of preschool before kindergarten; balances academic skill-building and social-emotional development.
• Kindergarten — Kindergarten
• School Age — School age
• Summer Camp

At a glance

• Ages: 0–8 years old
• Facility hours: 6:30 AM - 6:30 PM

About the provider

The Nest Schools was founded in 2020 by Gerry Pastor and Jane Porterfield, after they had spent more than 35 years in early childhood education. Its leadership team includes Daughn Bullock, Director; Jessica Gresco, Assistant Director; and Kylie Kukul, Regional Director. The mission is to build trusting relationships with families and provide safe and nurturing environments where children grow with joy and develop a lifelong love of learning.

• Before & After School Care — Offered for Lewis Elementary, Parkside Elementary, Roxbury Elementary, Solon City District Elementary Schools, and Orchard Middle School.

What families say

“We are so grateful for The Nest Schools! We have had amazing teachers so far, and our son loves every minute of school! What I love is that even the teachers that our son hasn't had yet all know him by name, and treat him like he is one of their own students. We would (and do) recommend The Nest to anyone that asks.” — Amanda Lacks

“The things we like best about our child care experience at The Nest Schools are that we’re always greeted each morning with the staff’s friendly smiles and positive attitudes. Both of our children feel welcomed and have developed wonderful relationships. We are also impressed by the level of safety and the daily curriculum.” — Stephanie & Ryan Briggs

“To us, The Nest Schools has meant more than just childcare; they have been our partner in the development and success of our kids!” — Stephen Starr

Last updated October 17, 2026.