To achieve excellent indoor air quality and reduce the children’s exposure to toxins, NEA uses non-toxic, sustainable and non-allergenic materials throughout the facilities. All of the paints are odor-free with zero-VOC and floors are made of wood or marmoleum. Our furniture is made of wood that comes from responsibly managed forests and passes the most stringent tests for indoor emissions. All of our classrooms have abundant natural light.

The toys, art supplies, and learning materials are carefully chosen to be free from harmful chemicals and lead. Every effort is made to select toys that are made from sustainable materials and come from manufactures that demonstrate environmental responsibility.

We use shatterproof glass dishes and stainless steel utensils. Food at NEA is catered by Gourmet Gorilla, which obtains its produce from local, sustainable, and organic purveyors. The meats are free range, grass fed and all natural. They have not been subjected to artificial growth hormones and antibiotics, or artificial preservatives. Gourmet Gorilla avoids GMO where possible and is a peanut and tree nut free facility.

We use Bambo Nature diapers that are free of chemicals, dyes, parabens, or perfumes. Bambo Nature ensures its products are free of all known allergens (www.bambonature.com). Bathrooms are equipped with low-flush toilets and recycled unbleached paper napkins for drying hands.

Health Department requires a monthly maintenance inspection for pests. NEA works with an environmentally safe pest control company, Smithereen Pest Control. They are Green Shield Certified and offer allnatural, green alternatives (cedar oil, natural enzymes, etc.) to the dangerous chemicals.

We reuse and recycle as much as possible. NEA teachers reuse many household items for creating hand-made toys and activities. Children are taught the importance of recycling for the environment on a daily basis.

NEA management shares its “green” ideas and best practices with the entire team. Teachers are provided with information and tips for going green at home and at work by addressing such issues as energy and water use, recycling, reducing the use of disposable dishware, and eliminating plastic bottles.