Turtle Creek Academy was established in 1998 by Virginia McDonald in response to the current research on how preschool children come to learn. Based on current research and best practices in education, Mrs. McDonald created a stimulating curriculum with help from a very devoted and nurturing staff. The well-developed program, the professional and caring teachers, and the charming facility make this preschool an optimum environment for children to flourish to their maximum potential.
Turtle Creek Learning Academy is housed in the old Wortley Building. This building was originally constructed to hold grain and potatoes. The old railroad line ran behind the school and grain was loaded on the trains to be transported to the markets up north. The building has been used as an auxiliary train station, a nursery, and offices for small businesses. Turtle Creek is proud to be a part of this long and interesting history. The little brick schoolhouse charm dovetails with the philosophy of the school. Many parents have commented that coming into the school is like coming home.



Virginia McDonald - Owner
Along with being the owner and curriculum coordinator, Virginia also teaches the gifted and talented program at Marlboro Elementary School. She has taught in the district for twenty-two years. She received her BS in Early Childhood Education from Trenton State College, and her MA in instruction and curriculum from Kean College. She is known as an innovative and passionate educator who tirelessly works in the best interest of children.

Marilyn Beutel - Director
Marilyn has been involved in early education for the past 25 years. She was both administrator and teacher at several highly esteemed private schools in New York City before coming to her beloved Turtle Creek. Marilyn has a B.A. in Child Psychology from Syracuse University and an M.S. in Education from Hunter College in New York City. She has dedicated her professional life to creating nurturing and stimulating environments for young children.

Our Faculty
One of our truly greatest assets is our faculty. They are all gifted and talented educators, and are dedicated to providing the highest level of quality education for our children. All of our teachers have professional degrees, many with master level credentials. Both our lead teachers and co-teachers regularly participate in workshops and training classes for their professional development and career advancement. The staff is fully involved in the development of curriculum and the policies of our school, which creates an atmosphere of teamwork and camaraderie. The sensitivity and understanding that our teachers bring to their classrooms is the reason our students and parents consider as a “home away from home.”