Lake Anne Nursery Kindergarten (LANK) is Reston’s first preschool. Robert E. Simon was dedicated to the concept of education for young children, and plans were included for an early learning center in the New Town design of Reston in 1963. This was at the forefront of educational philosophy for that era, as most children did not attend school prior to kindergarten. In 1965, at Lake Anne Village Center, LANK began with a small band of five little preschool pioneers and one teacher. 

 

It was an idea whose time had come. Quickly, the school outgrew its original space and in 1972 moved to its current location. Using funds supplied by the community, LANK was built on a beautiful 2½ acre site nestled in the woods. Designed specifically to meet the educational needs of young children, the LANK building was awarded the prestigious AIA Award for Architecture. In 2000, a wing was added to the building to provide a spacious Junior Preschool suite, as well as a multi-purpose room and teachers’ conference room. 

 

We are proud of our almost 60 years history of educating and nurturing young children. In addition, we have the unique circumstance of enjoying a multi-generational LANK community!  Many of the parents sending their children to LANK also attended LANK! Several of our teachers and staff sent their children here, and we also celebrate that we have grandchildren now in the building! LANK recognizes and values the generous support of our families in their vital role in our achievements.