Paterson Family Center Preschool: A Second Home for Paterson’s Littlest Learners – and Their Families
August 14, 2025
Watch our PFC Spotlight short video
Every September, something magical happens at NJCDC’s Paterson Family Center (PFC) preschool. Classrooms come alive with the hum of little voices, the shuffle of tiny feet, and the boundless energy of curiosity. For over two decades, PFC has been a second home for Paterson’s youngest learners and the families who trust them to our care.
Since opening in 2003, PFC has served 105 three- and four-year-olds each year through a free, full-day program that nurtures the mind and heart in equal measure. Our philosophy is beautifully simple: children learn best when they feel loved, supported, and free to explore.
That’s why we follow an evidence-based curriculum aligned with National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) guidelines, thoughtfully blending structured learning with play, exploration, and cultural traditions that help children feel deeply rooted in their community.
But PFC’s impact extends far beyond the classroom. Our after-school programming supports working families while extending learning opportunities, and our comprehensive family support services connect parents to essential resources for housing, healthcare, and more.
“We’re here for the whole family,” explains Director Maria Camacho. “When parents and caregivers have what they need, children thrive.”
Maria’s unwavering dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed. This summer, her grateful staff surprised her with a delighful luncheon celebrating her second anniversary as PFC’s leader. Teachers shared touching tributes about her constant encouragement and the welcoming environment she’s cultivated. As one staff member beautifully put it: "Maria makes sure PFC feels like home. That sense of care radiates through everything we do — families feel it the moment they walk through our doors.”
Ms. Elizabeth and the Magic of PFC
Ask anyone at PFC who best embodies our school's spirit, and they'll point to Ms. Elizabeth Santos without hesitation. For 17 years, she's been our constant — part teacher, part cheerleader, part extended family member to every child who enters her classroom.
She still remembers her first visit to PFC, drawn in simply by the name: “Family Center. That said everything I needed to know. I walked in and thought, ‘This is exactly where I want to be.’”
When Elizabeth talks about her students, her eyes light up with the same warmth she'd show discussing her own children. She recalls one particularly memorable little boy who arrived at four years old unable to hold a spoon or use the bathroom independently. Through patient guidance and unwavering belief, she watched him transform. By year's end, he was potty-trained, chatting confidently with friends, and radiating pride in his achievements.
“We went from zero to — I won’t say 100, but a solid 70,” she laughs warmly. “Every child teaches you how to work with them. We learn and grow together.”
For Elizabeth, success means so much more than mastering ABCs and numbers. “I want every child to leave here with an unshakeable sense of belonging and pride — to truly believe in themselves and their limitless potential.”
Her influence doesn't end when students graduate either. Former preschoolers seek her out years later — in grocery stores, on street corners, anywhere they spot their beloved Ms. Elizabeth. Some are now in high school, others in college, and a few are starting families of their own.
"I'm officially a grandma now," she jokes with delight, "because my former preschoolers are having babies!"
Where Learning Feels Like Celebration
The PFC calendar overflows with moments that make childhood truly magical. During Read Across America Day, excitement fills every corner as more than 40 community volunteers — from Paterson's First Lady to local police officers to corporate partners — spread throughout the school, bringing beloved stories to life. Children receive hugs from the Cat in the Hat, high-fives from Sparky the Fire Dog, and experience the pure joy of seeing real-world heroes taking time to read just for them.
Spring brings our cherished Cherry Blossoms tradition with NJCDC Founder & CEO Bob Guarasci, where children discover wonder in pink blooms while learning about nature’s beautiful cycles. Our I Love You Valentine’s Day Breakfast transforms the building with smiles, hugs, and the irresistible aroma of fresh pancakes. March’s International Women's Day lunch celebrates the incredible mothers who are our students' first teachers and biggest champions.
Field trips to destinations like Turtle Back Zoo and Kids Empire turn learning into grand adventures, with teachers joining the fun right alongside their students — sometimes literally catching them at the bottom of slides. Each school year culminates with a joyful graduation ceremony for our four-year-olds and a heartfelt Parent Appreciation Luncheon honoring the families who’ve shared this incredible journey with us.
From PFC Preschooler to Community Leader: Lexie’s Story
Lexie Castillo’s story perfectly illustrates PFC’s lasting impact. She began her journey with us as a quiet three-year-old, uncertain but curious about the world around her. Over the years, she remained part of the NJCDC family — attending our Community Charter School of Paterson, participating in after-school and college prep programs, and volunteering at community events.
Today, Lexie serves as an AmeriCorps Mental Health Youth Mentor with our Paterson Public Health Corps, working in the very schools she once attended as a student. She's also preparing for the LSAT with dreams of becoming a lawyer specializing in immigration law or public policy.
“PFC gave me my first real sense of belonging to something bigger than myself,” Lexie reflects. “I learned confidence, how to connect with others, how to believe in my own voice. Now I want to give that same encouragement to the young people I mentor.”
Ready to Join the PFC Family?
Enrollment is currently open for Paterson families with children who turn 3 or 4 by October 31st of the enrollment year. While limited spots remain available, they fill quickly — typically by the end of August — so we encourage interested families to register as soon as possible.
To enroll:
Call 973-321-0674 to schedule an appointment (Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–3:00 PM, at 32 Spruce St.)
Bring your child and required documents to complete your registration packet
For more information, contact:
Maria Camacho, Director
📞 973-413-1570
At PFC, children take their very first steps toward bright, promising futures while families become part of a caring network dedicated to their success. A new school year is beginning — come discover what’s possible when a child feels truly at home.
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