“It is not what you do for your children, but what you have taught them to do for themselves, that will make them successful human beings."
.jpg)
.jpg)
IMAGE OF THE CHILD
We believe every child is born competent, capable, and full of potential. Children are natural researchers, driven by curiosity and a desire to make sense of the world. Rather than being told what or how to think, they thrive when encouraged to share ideas, test theories, and collaborate with peers to seek their own answers.
We also understand that every child develops at their own pace, in their own time. Every child enriches our classroom with their strengths and perspectives, and we see them as equal members of our community—deserving of kindness, respect, and empathy. We speak to them the same way we speak to a best friend, with kindness, compassion, and empathy. Children hold a deep sense of wonder and curiosity that is inspiring and contagious. Their innate quest for knowledge is what propels our learning journeys.
EMERGENT CURRICULUM
& PROJECT BASED APPROACH
Children are active collaborators in their education, not passive observers. Our curriculum grows from the children’s interests and the daily observations teachers make about their play, questions, and curiosities. Teachers reflect on these observations to design meaningful activities and long-term projects—what we often call investigations, adventures, or explorations.
​
Projects may last anywhere from a few days to several months, depending on the depth of the children’s interest. While ideas may come from both children and teachers, the direction is always shaped by the children’s engagement. Teachers set intentional goals—academic, physical, emotional, and social—and design curriculum experiences that challenge and support children across all areas, including math, science, and literacy.
REPRESENTATIONAL DEVELOPMENT
We invite children to express their ideas and learning through many forms—print, art, drama, dance, music, puppetry, and more. Offering multiple avenues of expression allows each child to communicate in the way that feels most natural to them. By honoring these diverse “languages of learning,” we help children build confidence, creativity, and joy in their discoveries.
COLLABORATION
When learning is guided by children’s interests, the classroom becomes a truly collaborative environment. Together, children practice teamwork, negotiation, compromise, and patience as they share ideas and work toward common goals. Involving children in shaping the direction of their learning helps them feel heard and respected, while nurturing a strong sense of self-worth and belonging.
OUR ENVIRONMENT & OUTDOOR LEARNING
Our classrooms engage all of a child’s senses—sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell—to guide meaningful learning. Inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, our spaces are intentionally designed with natural elements, open common areas, and abundant materials that invite exploration and creativity.
Housed in a former church built in the mid 1900s, our school benefits from exceptionally large classrooms, high ceilings, and plentiful natural light. Both our indoor and outdoor environments are viewed as “the third teacher,” offering children endless opportunities to explore, discover, and connect with the world around them. Snow, leaves, sticks, and other natural treasures regularly find their way inside, strengthening children’s relationship with nature and sparking new investigations.
COMMUNITY EXPLORATION
The Reggio Emilia approach values strong connections between teachers, parents, children, and the wider community. We view children as active collaborators and important members of that community, deserving opportunities to build meaningful relationships beyond the classroom.
Through walking field trips and local partnerships, children engage with neighborhood businesses, explore diverse cultures, and experience intergenerational connections. These experiences nurture a sense of belonging while fostering respect, curiosity, and appreciation for the world around them. At Foothill, we are proud to support local businesses and involve children in every step of that effort.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITY & SOCIAL JUSTICE
We believe in guiding children to become active, compassionate members of their community. Through our gardens and recycling/upcycling projects, children learn to care for the earth, living creatures, and one another. These experiences reinforce the idea that even the youngest voices and actions can make a difference.
We also embrace an inclusive approach that honors all people, religions, and holidays. One of our most beloved traditions is our annual PRIDE celebration, where children and families tie-dye clothing, walk together in pride through the community, and return for a joyful picnic luncheon. This celebration reflects our commitment to inclusivity, respect, and the power of coming together.
