Your Questions, Answered

  • We follow developmentally appropriate practices based on DCF regulations and NAEYC principles.

    The following are approved curriculum and frameworks:
    Pocket of Preschool
    Creative Curriculum
    Bright Start Early Learning

    We implement strategies aligned with:
    Florida Early Learning and Developmental Standards for School Readiness - Emergent Learning

    Our teachers also draw inspiration from the Reggio Emilia philosophy and techniques.

    Our classrooms are Montessori-inspired and nature-based with a minimalistic aesthetic.

    The children rotate through learning centers that include: math, literacy, blocks, science, art, sensory, STEM, dramatic play, fine/gross motor, and reading.

  • For morning instruction every classroom has two adults: a lead teacher and an associate teacher. In the afternoons, every class has one adult and there are multiple associate teachers who assist the classrooms.

    Infants - 2 adults to 4 children

    Toddlers - 2 adults to 6 children

    Twos - 2 adults to 11 children

    Threes - 2 adults to 15 children

    VPK - 2 adults to 19 children

  • All classroom lead teachers have a degree in early childhood education or a CDA (child development associate) credential.

    All teachers are required to complete 40 hours of childcare training through the Department of Children and Families AND complete 10 hours of yearly in-service training.

    The average tenure of our lead teachers is 9.3 years. For associates/floats/resource, it’s 4.3 years. Our leadership team has a combined tenure of 37 years at the Academy (this doesn’t include early childhood education experience elsewhere).

  • To begin the enrollment process, please begin by registering your child on our waiting list by using the button at the top of the screen.

    As a year-round school, we start the enrollment process by reaching out to families in early spring, March-May, to offer tours and family interviews. Once this step is complete, a team member will reach out if we have an opening for the upcoming school year.

    We will send you a pre-enrollment form to complete and the non-refundable registration fee is due at the time of submission.

    In mid-summer, we send out an enrollment packet, sign-ups to Meet the Teacher, and any other pertinent information.

  • The Infant and Toddler programs are full-time only.

    We offer part-time full day options for Twos and Threes

    Our VPK Only program is Monday-Thursday, 8:15am-12pm. Wrap around care options are available. Please see our Hours and Tuition Rates page for more information.

    We do not offer half days at a discounted tuition rate. You are welcome to pick up your child prior to nap, but tuition is not discounted.

  • All of our age groups have time on the playground or outside, weather permitting, in both the morning and the afternoon for 20-30 minutes.

    If the weather does not permit outside play, the classes use the multipurpose room and the Rec Center/Gym for indoor play.

  • Yes, we hold a license through the Department of Children and Families.

  • We are open Monday-Friday, 7:30am-5:30pm. Our program is year-round, August through July.

    We close for most federal holidays, two weeks at Christmas and New Years, for a week during the summer for the church-wide Vacation Bible School, 2-3 days for Independence Day, and for a week prior to the start of the new school year for cleaning and prep.

    A full list of school closings and events is available under the Parent Resources tab.

  • We require children enrolling in our Threes and VPK programs to be fully potty-trained prior to admittance.

  • No. All snacks and meals are provided by the parents.

    We provide the option of pizza for lunch twice a month on Fridays for Toddler classes and older. Sides and dessert are provided. Your account is billed for a lunch charge if you choose for your child to eat pizza.

  • Yes, but we are not a peanut-free facility.

    Food allergies and dietary restrictions should be discussed with the director and classroom teachers prior to enrollment, if possible.

  • We allow families to bring in a special treat for birthdays. All birthday cupcakes/treats must be store or bakery bought and sealed.

    Birthday parties are usually held at snack time.

    You may send in your choice of refreshments (large cake, cupcakes, ice cream).

    Goody bags or party favors may not contain guns/water guns, choke-able items, gum, or hard candy.

    You may provide birthday hats, plates, and napkins.

    No balloons of any kind are allowed on campus.

    Party invitations should be given directly to the teacher to be passed out.

  • We use the Class Dojo app to communicate. Schoolwide information is posted in the main story. Teachers use the app to post pictures, communicate with parents, make announcements, etc. We answer questions through chats on the app.

    We also use email to communicate enrollment information. Our leadership team is available for in-person or phone communication as well.