GREENVILLE, S.C., July 10, 2019 — A nationally-recognized Montessori- and Reggio Emilia-inspired preschool is opening in Greenville, giving Upstate families a new half-day collaborative learning option for 18-month through 5 year-olds.
Ivybrook Academy will offer both morning and afternoon sessions, with a proprietary curriculum that includes everything from yoga to organic gardening, to music and foreign languages.
“What makes Ivybrook Academy different from other preschools is our small class sizes and an intentional environment that helps children investigate and explore,” founder Jennifer McWilliams said. “The experience is designed to reflect and support the children’s interests and needs.”
The school was built with collaborative, open spaces, natural lighting and natural things in the rooms like plants and animals. The outdoor space at the two-acre campus includes organic gardens, interperative nature trails, open fields, an amphitheater and playgrounds.
The curriculum combines the customized learning approach of Montessori, the experiences in the preschools in Reggio Emilia Italy, and Multiple Intelligence research. These philosophies are blended into a comprehensive half-day program focused on the critical early years of cognitive and social development.
Ivybrook Academy’s teachers document the entire learning process, as opposed to only the product. Teachers are in regular communication with parents to help them better understand their child’s strengths and interests and to guide future directions for their studies.
Emily Watson, Ivybrook Academy Greenville director, said the school brings a unique option to families whose primary consideration for preschool is education and preparation for elementary school.
“Ivybrook Academy has emerged as a leader in early childhood education, earning regional and national recognition for its curriculum,” Watson said. “Greenville has a need for preschools that focus on expanding student’s knowledge and understanding of the world. This is the foundation for continued social and academic success in elementary school.”
The new school will open in early September at 305 Pelham Road near the Publix shopping center. Enrollment has started and more information is available at (864) 501-5997 or http://www.ivybrookacademy.com.
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