Little Harvard Preschool Halloween Parade Delivers

By Jennifer L. Warren

NEW WINDSOR – Antonia Uszenski can’t control her unbridled joy when she views the scene play out each year.

“Seeing the kids’ smiles, just looking at their faces light up is so special,” reflected Uszenski, the Owner and Director of New Windsor’s Little Harvard Preschool. “The way they hug each other and love one another is so innocently priceless.”

Uszenski was referring to last Wednesday’s 28th Annual Halloween Parade at Little Harvard. Here, excited children, clad in Superman, Batman, Count Dracula, a unicorn, several princesses, an assortment of animals and other catchy costumes, could be seen strolling through several nearby blocks. Accompany the joyous youngsters were their parents and guardians, along with other family members, also dressed for the occasion. Whether it was sporting a duck, elephant, giraffe, or assortment of other colorful, alluring costumes, family members were fully immersed in this special time.

“The kids are just so excited to really go on a walk through the neighborhood around here,” said Uszenski. “It’s such a memorable time for them to share this whole experience with their parents or guardians; they really support the School, and it’s so wonderful to have them so involved.”

The priceless, much anticipated venue also included; surprise visits by neighbors, coming out of their homes and joining in on a Halloween sing-a-long, craft festival along with specially-decorated cupcakes and cookies. In many ways, the Parade is symbolic of the Schools’ mission to celebrate diversity.

“We try to make sure all students and their families are recognized,” said Uszenski. “We do this by acknowledging all cultural celebrations, such as Kwanza, Chanukah, Christmas and the Chinese New Year.”

Started by Uszenski, Little Harvard opened its doors in 1997. The New Windsor location (there is another in Washingtonville) includes two buildings, catering to students six weeks through five years old. Students are divided into age groups, receiving caring, challenging instruction from a dedicated staff team. Approximately 125 families and 100 students, spanning the Newburgh, New Windsor, and Cornwall area, are involved at New Windsor. A private school, they collaborate with the Newburgh Enlarged City School District and its Universal Pre-K Program.

“It’s just so nice to see the connections and family here,” said Uszenski, who splits her time between the two Orange County locations. “We have had parents here who attended the program themselves and are now parents to students coming here, just a really beautiful thing.”