About Our School

The Whole Child Approach

At Sierra Oaks Academy, we are dedicated to creating a nurturing, stimulating and welcoming play-based environment for all children. Our unique child-led and teacher guided programs incorporate a variety of educational theories, while always keeping the child’s best interest in mind and allowing for hands-on, experiential learning. Ms. Dee Dee's 20 years of excellent experience in working with children reflects in every aspect of Sierra Oaks Academy, delivering the upmost quality care.

     Children are competent, curious, creative, and capable. Exploring their curiosities and interests can lead to a greater understanding and a greater desire to learn. We are aware of each child’s potential, and it is their responsibility to help support and guide children throughout the journey of learning.

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Through emergent curriculum, we can facilitate project work that will allow our students to explore their areas of interest in detail. We introduce materials, concepts, and mediums that allow children to express their ideas and interests. Children develop an enthusiasm for knowledge that is enhanced by the ability to experience the many facets of project work in detail. Projects can last anywhere from a few days to several months at a time.

Teachers are viewed as more than just a partner in education. We play several different roles, in addition to that of a teacher. We are the guides that take children through the journey of learning. We are the scribes who listen, record and display classroom experiences. We are advocates for the children, and work closely with colleagues and parents to foster an inviting, interesting, community-based learning environment.

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Documentation may come in a variety of different forms, including photography, videos, conversation transcripts, painting, drawing or other visual mediums like clay. Documentation then serves to communicate learning, development, ideas, and interests and supports the next steps in the children’s educational journey.