Pumpkin Shell Nursery School welcomes new teacher and director Ashley Paul in preparation for the new school year. Pumpkin Shell’s enrollment is now open to three- and four-year-olds in the community. (Photo from Pumpkin Shell Nursery School on Facebook)

OXFORD – Pumpkin Shell Nursery School is welcoming a new teacher, Ashley Paul, to its staff and opening enrollment for three- and four-year-olds ahead of the upcoming school year.

Paul joins Pumpkin Shell with ten years of experience in early childhood education. She is “dedicated to fostering a nurturing and stimulating learning environment for [Pumpkin Shell’s] young students,” the school shared. “She brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to our school, and we are confident that our students will thrive under her guidance.”

Pumpkin Shell has also opened enrollment for students. The school provides a “balanced mix of academic, social and emotional learning experiences in a safe and caring environment.” To be eligible for enrollment, children must be three years old by December 1. Pumpkin Shell’s fall program will offer three-day-a-week and four-day-a-week options to cater to different families’ needs.

Pumpkin Shell is also seeking support from the community to ensure students have ample opportunity to “explore, learn and grow” in its high-quality early education environment. The school shared that monetary donations will be used to “enhance learning resources, fund special projects and support extracurricular activities that enrich students’ educational experiences.” Donations of all sizes are appreciated.

Another option to contribute to Pumpkin Shell’s impact is to support the school’s Amazon wishlist, which includes art supplies, toys, and classroom organization materials. The group is currently seeking contributions at www.amazon.com. Visit the official Pumpkin Shell Nursery School facebook page for more information on how to donate at www.facebook.com/PumpkinShellNursery.

Pumpkin Shell will also hold a farmer’s market this Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon at LaFayette Park in Oxford. Lemonade and cookies will be sold to raise money for the new school year.

Pumpkin Shell Nursery School was founded in 1971 as a parent cooperative. To enroll a student or to learn more about donating to the school’s cause, visit Pumpkin Shell Nursery School on Facebook or email pumpkinshellnurseryschool@gmail.com.

"We will have weekly themes, do lots of crafts and have tons of fun," said Paul.

The program for the fall will offer three day programs for $130 and four day options for $155 per month. There is also one time registration fee of $150.