Pine Brook Jewish Center

A Grateful Reflection on PBJC ECC: The School That Changed Everything

When we first considered enrolling our son at PBJC ECC, I’ll admit I had serious reservations. Coming from a highly regarded preschool, I worried that transitioning to PBJC might be a step down—especially in terms of education, structure, and academic growth. I had first hand knowledge and knew all the accolades about Agudath Israel and believed, like many do, that it was the premier early childhood option in the area.

But I was wrong. Not just a little wrong—completely, wonderfully, life-changingly wrong.

PBJC ECC has redefined what I thought a preschool could be. What I initially feared would be a less rigorous environment turned out to be the most enriching, warm, and intentional educational experience my son could have had. This place isn't just a preschool—it’s a nurturing community, a space where children are truly seen, known, and celebrated for who they are.

The staff and teachers are nothing short of exceptional. They don’t just teach—they connect. They pour their whole hearts into the kids, blending warmth and love with an incredible gift for early childhood education. Every classroom moment is thoughtful and full of purpose. Our son was not only learning—he was thriving. His confidence blossomed, his curiosity deepened, and his joy became contagious.

And then there's The Giggle Zone—an environment that lives up to its name in the most beautiful way. It’s pure joy.

Looking back, the only thing I’d change is enrolling sooner. That’s the bittersweet part—knowing now just how right this place was for him, and wishing he could’ve had even more time here. It’s also a reminder that sometimes the most respected or “popular” option isn’t the best fit for every child. Agudath may be a great school—and it deserves credit—but PBJC ECC is not just another option. For our family, it has been the best option.

As our son moves on, we are filled with gratitude. Gratitude for the teachers and staff who nurtured him. Gratitude for the friendships he built. Gratitude for the community we’ve become a part of. These past two years at PBJC ECC have given him so much more than we could have imagined—and they’ve given us, as parents, a deeper understanding of what truly matters in a child’s early education.

Thank you, PBJC ECC, for giving our son a place to laugh, learn, grow, and shine. You’ll always have a piece of our hearts.

Best decision I made to join 15 years ago. The Early Childhood Center is second to none!

Wonderful Jewish Community! Love the Rabbi and cantor. Excellent programming and nursery school!

A welcoming congregation and a place of community. I enjoy the events, education, and the friendships my membership has helped me form.

I was there with my baby little son today, converted to the Jewish religion on my heart and personality about a year ago because of their nice human attitude .. took me so long to decide going ahead and practice it and start praying and doing other worship . As it’s my first time in a Jewish center finally, and full of happiness that I finally made it to me and my son i asked the people working there help to guide me on praying and get close understanding practicing religion that i just converted to . they said you have to speak to Michelle I spoke to her and she asked me do I live here in pine Brook? I said i used to with my x husband but now I’m i live in Wayne, she said ok no problem.. and she interviewed me with so many questions and i had no problem with that for sure , i felt so welcomed in the beginning from every one, gave me the brochure and the service times and the application to pay to get a membership and become a member i was so glad and happy i went for a walk about 20 min around# But i was chocked when i came back to my car that it was alllll a Fake welcomes . I was surprised having three police cars waiting for me with Michelle “ saying sorry to me ! the same person who told me you’re welcome to come anytime and just by attending you will learn everything about how to practice !!! Called the police for me saying that there is two other Jewish center in wayne why would you come here !!! Excuse me ? A single mom with a baby in a holy Jewish center what would be suspension about it ? Nothing happened after that she tried to talk to me and i said please don’t talk to me , I just feel so unfortunate That this is happening,. They called me later and gave me an official apologies and explained to me which is I really appreciate and totally forgiven .May God bless everyone.