History

In December 2009, after 1.5 years of working alongside highly skilled architects, contractors and designers, the brand new, uniquely designed, state of the art center, Lolly's Early Childhood Center opens.  We host parent tours and feedback sessions, events, teacher recruitment and training seminars and begin to create relationships with other small, local businesses. 

In April 2010, Lolly's officially enrolls its' very first students. Quickly, Long Island City's premier classroom-based early learning center takes the neighborhood by storm.  Lolly's is featured in various publications, including the The New York Times, Queens Courier, The National Herald, Time Out NY, and featured on NY One.  Lolly's receives accolades from various groups, including Queens Mamas and LIC Parent Associations.  The Internet is buzzing with positive feedback regarding this very special preschool center, with its' masterly designed school setting and strategic curriculum, the center is quickly set apart from anything Long Island City residents had ever had before. 

In 2012, Lolly's is awarded a contract with the NYC Department of Education to provide Universal pre-Kindergarten services to age eligible children in the community.  In 2013, Lolly's was offered (and accepted) additional hours of UPK funding.  Aside from the local elementary school (PS/IS 78), as of 2017, Lolly's is the only other preschool in Long Island City that provides pre-Kindergarten seats through the NYC DOE.  Since being part of the UPK program, Lolly's has been formally reviewed multiple times for program quality, classroom set up and management, parent involvement, teacher performance, and administrative commitment. Lolly's has consistently scored well above the city average in all categories when assessed and receives consistent praise for the quality program provided.

In 2013, Lolly's expanded, adding an additional classroom (with a custom loft space that really is a small child's dream come true) and an indoor gym space, equipped with so many gross motor items that children can enjoy a different obstacle course or challenge every day for a year without ever repeating.  The coolest parts of our gym, according to the little ones it was created for, is our incredible rock wall and basketball hoop. 

In 2015 and 2016 (respectfully), Mr. Ivan and Ms. D each celebrate their 5th year at Lolly's. In an industry that is known for high staff turnover, Lolly's breaks the mold with teachers who are so committed that they not only stay for the entire school year, but often for many years beyond.  The stability, dedication and professionalism of the staff is truly unique to the childcare industry and continues to set Lolly's apart from all other preschools. 

In 2016, shortly after Lolly's 6th Anniversary celebration, Lolly's is named "Best Childcare in Queens" by the Queens Award Program. A true honor!  Also in 2016, in order to help satisfy the high demand for pre-Kindergarten seats within the LIC community, Lolly's opens an additional pre-K class.

In 2017, Lolly's Early Learning Center is inducted into the Queens' Award program's business hall of fame for winning BEST PRESCHOOL IN QUEENS for 2 consecutive years in a row!!  Additionally, our very own Pre-K teacher Ms. D (Stephanie DeJoy) is selected to receive a 2017 Blackboard Award as part of this year’s celebration of teachers and their dedication to excellence.   Out of thousands of candidates ranging from preschool to high school teachers, less than 20 individuals throughout NYC receive this prestigious award every year. We couldn't be prouder of Ms. D or more grateful for her 6 years of dedication and commitment to Lolly's.   She has paved the way for many future classes to continue to thrive and has touched hundreds of children along the way. 

In 2018, Lolly’s is named the best childcare in Queens by the Queens Award Program for the third year in a row and is inducted into their Business Hall of Fame.  Additional, the Department of Education awards Lolly’s a pre-K contract for an additional 3 year term. Lolly’s is also proud to announce that Jessica O’Neill and Felicia Swan mark their 5 year anniversaries at the center. 

In 2019, Lolly’s is awarded the best childcare in Queens (again!) for the fourth year in a row.  Our Toddler teacher Zuzanna celebrates her 5th anniversary at the center. 

In 2020, Lolly’s celebrates 10 years in LIC! As Lolly’s turns 10, Mr. Ivan also celebrates his golden 10 year anniversary at the center. Lolly’s is awarded the best childcare in Queens for the fifth year in a row - an honor never bestowed on any organization within the Queens Award program before.

CONGRATULATIONS LOLLY'S!  Cheers to a year (and many more) of accomplishments and successes.