For more than a century, the building at 127 Warren Ave, Whitman, Massachusetts 02382, has been used for education. Originally constructed in 1897 as the Gurney School, the site has continuously served students in Whitman in various forms for over 100 years. Today, it operates as a licensed daycare and preschool in Whitman, MA, as part of Our Future Learning Center.
A Building with a Long Educational History
Built at the end of the 19th century, the Gurney School reflected a period when towns across Massachusetts were investing heavily in public education. For decades, the building functioned as part of Whitman’s public school system before transitioning into private educational use later in the 20th century.
In the 1970s, the building became home to Merry Deb Whitman, an early childhood program offering daycare and preschool services. The program operated continuously at this address for more than 50 years. During that time, Merry Deb served thousands of families, primarily from Whitman, as well as neighboring communities including Abington, Rockland, Hanson, and East, West, and Bridgewater. Through its longevity and consistent presence, Merry Deb became closely associated with daycare and preschool education in the Whitman area.
A New Chapter
In 2025, Merry Deb Whitman became part of Our Future Learning Center, a locally owned group of early learning schools founded in 1999 and serving families across Greater Boston and Eastern Massachusetts. Our Whitman school continues to operate in the same historic building and remains led by longtime educators, including directors Darlene and Andrea, who continue to oversee daily operations.
Our Future Learning Center operates licensed programs for infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children. The Whitman school now offers this full age range, expanding beyond what had historically been available at the location.
Our Future Learning Center emphasizes STEAM-based learning, educator stability, clear family communication, and inclusive school environments. These priorities build on the foundation established by Merry Deb over decades of service in the community.
Caring for a Historic School Building
As part of this transition, Our Future Learning Center is investing in the care, maintenance, and restoration of the historic building at 127 Warren Avenue. The goal is to preserve its architectural character while upgrading systems to support modern daycare operations, safety standards, and accessibility.
This work is intended to keep the building functional as a licensed early childhood education facility while respecting its place in Whitman’s history.
Continuing Early Education in Whitman
For more than a century, the Warren Avenue building has served students, first as a public school, later as a private early childhood program, and now as a licensed daycare center in Whitman, MA operating under Our Future Learning Center.
While the school’s name has changed over time, its purpose has remained consistent: providing structured education and care for children in the community.
Families interested in daycare in Whitman, Massachusetts, including infant, toddler, and preschool programs, are encouraged to visit the school and meet the educators who continue its work.
Schedule a Tour
To learn more or to see the school in person, families can schedule a tour through our website. Tours provide an opportunity to explore the historic building, meet the leadership team, and learn more about the programs offered today.
