Smart Start Academy
Preschool in Toms River, NJ 08753
Smart Start Academy was founded in 2000 as a school for early childhood education. It started as a dream, became a reality, and is now celebrating a wonderfully successful past and future. We are a family owned and operated corporation with children’s best interests at heart.
Director Alicia Bellissimo is a young mother and Certified Teacher. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications/Public Relations and Journalism at Monmouth University. Alicia then proceeded into the Masters in Teaching Program at Monmouth University and graduated highly in her class. During this time she worked as a substitute teacher and volunteered at a pre-school for underprivileged children. After graduation she worked as a long-term substitute and then as a kindergarten teacher. Alicia’s role as a mother brought her to caring for young children in her home. The step to Director at Smart Start Academy was a natural move.
Director Marilyn Burton, (Alicia’s mother), has owned and operated several businesses. She has also raised five children and is currently, in addition to running the business operations, a grandmother who loves children.
As a team, Alicia and Marilyn work together keeping our two schools running smoothly. The curriculum is of the highest quality covering all basic skills areas. We strive to create a learning environment that stimulates, encourages, and rewards. In addition, we provide a loving, nurturing environment with lots of hugs and kisses. We truly believe that education is the number one reason for children to be at Smart Start Academy with socialization, team play, and the arts as wonderful accessories.
We pride ourselves on our achievements and the wonderful staff at Smart Start Academy and know your child, whether an infant, pre-k, or kindergarten student, will have his/her life enriched by his/her experiences at our school.
In 2006, we were able to add a wonderful Kindergarten program. We are very proud of this, and elementary schools in our area have been very complimentary on the terrific job that is done here.
- Child Ages:
- 6 weeks - 13 years
- Licenses & Accreditations:
- New Jersey Department of Children and Families
- Preschool:
- Yes
- Hours of Operation:
- 6:00 am - 6:00 pm
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Our schools provide an atmosphere which encourages social, emotional, physical, and intellectual growth skills which will be needed for the rest of your child’s life.
Our curriculum is planned within the framework of Smart Start Academy. The specific skills learned at each level of development will serve as a foundation for learning at the next level. Each classroom’s lesson plans are filled with developmentally appropriate experiences. Our standards are high and our commitment is strong.
