Admissions

We are delighted with your interest in St. Thomas More Play Group. Our traditional, nonsectarian early childhood program is reflective of our values of kindness and respect, where each child is encouraged to reach their full potential in preparation for a successful transition to kindergarten. A strong community of involved and engaged parents, in partnership with the extraordinary teachers at the school, is a hallmark of the STMPG experience, creating long-lasting and deep relationships that last way beyond the nursery years.

If you are interested in finding out more about our application process, you are welcome to complete our inquiry form. Our formal process begins in September, when we schedule tours of the school. Please contact us after Labor Day to arrange a visit. We look forward to meeting you!

kimberley hutfilz

Director of Admissions

When will I be notified about an admission decision?

Parents are notified of decisions based on the ISAAGNY notification guidelines. For applicants starting in Fall 2026, decisions will be released on Thursday, February 26th. Accepted families are asked to respond by March 5th. Acceptance is based upon available spaces after returning children and siblings of current attendees are considered. Further, there is the desire to balance ages, genders and personalities within each group.
What is the tuition at STMPG?

Twos $18,900 Young Threes $24,500 Five Day Threes $31,000 Transitional Fours $32,000 Regular Fours $33,100
Do you meet my child?

Child visits are scheduled after parent tours are completed. They are usually dependent on the age of the child and can be discussed with the Director of Admissions.
Where do children go to school after STMPG?

Children are well prepared for a range of continuing school experiences. After three years at the Play Group, many go on to attend single sex or co-ed independent schools. Some families also apply to specialized public school programs. The administrative team actively supports the exmissions process.
What is the birthday cutoff for children to apply for September 2026?

For our Two's class, the applicant's birthday range is January 1 - June 15, 2024. For our Young Three's class, the applicant's birthday range is June 16 - December 31, 2023. We accept applications for our older classes on a limited basis. Please contact the school office for more information.
I've scheduled a parent visit. What is the format?

Tours of the school are scheduled from October through December. A typical tour will include 2-3 couples led by the Admissions Director and a current STMPG parent. The 45 minute tours are scheduled for either 9:15 or 10:30. It is advisable that both parents attend and we ask that you kindly call the day prior to confirm. At the conclusion of your scheduled tour, you will be given an application form and tuition information. If you decide to apply, please return the form and a $75 application fee, made payable to St. Thomas More Play Group.
What is the first step in applying to STMPG?

Please complete our inquiry form, and call the school after September 3 on (212) 534-3977 to schedule a parent visit. Tours for the 2026-2027 school year will begin in September 2025.

WHAT PARENTS SAY...

“The curriculum was rich, engaging and relevant to the children and their needs. We could see that every aspect of the classrooms and the curriculum were well thought out and aimed to spark wonder and curiosity in the children. The learning was fun and weaved seamlessly through play, science, movement, art, woodwork and music at your school. We love that STMPG has a perfect balance of structure and flexibility.”