Academics

Pre-K (Ages 3-4)

Pre-Kindergarten

Early Childhood Education at High Meadows builds a foundation for a lifetime love of learning.

When High Meadows School opened in 1973, the first program was for three-, four-, and five-year-olds. Our founders encouraged children to be creative, to have autonomy, and to use their decision-making skills in an engaging and enriching environment. They wanted to give children the opportunity to connect with the natural environment and to build confidence and meaningful relationships with teachers and peers. 
More than 50 years later, those goals continue to inspire and guide our renowned multi-age Pre-K program. For three- and four-year-olds, our primary focus is building social/emotional skills that help them develop independence and self-confidence.

In addition to following the practices outlined by the founders of the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program (IB PYP), our SAIS-accredited program uses the Reggio Emilia philosophies of early childhood education to influence our classroom spaces and the daily experience of our students. A low student-teacher ratio in classes taught by two experienced teachers allows for strong relationship building and a balance of attention, small group play, and large group activities.  Early literacy skills (including reading, writing, and speaking), mathematics, social studies, science, and outdoor education are fully integrated into the daily curriculum.  Our 42-acre campus delights young students with organic gardens, playgrounds, open spaces, and a barnyard with ponies, sheep, goats, rabbits, and more.

Beyond the Basics

Our Preschool and Pre-K students enjoy a wide variety of Connections Classes.  Students enrolled full-time attend Spanish, music, nature, drama, physical education, and barnyard classes. Part-time students attend the Connections Classes and activities that are available to their class during their hours of attendance. The daily curriculum includes a wide range of opportunities for artistic expression.

Whole Child Focus

Children thrive most when their physical, social, emotional, and academic needs are all considered in their daily school experience. Even the youngest High Meadows students are respected as learners, community members, and individuals capable of great things. They develop and grow through the intentional integration of physical movement, play, social and friendship skill-building, and mindfulness practices alongside play-based academic experiences. High Meadows teachers use Positive Discipline principles to assist with classroom management and individual growth, focusing on problem-solving and self-awareness rather than punishment and rewards.

Outdoor Education

Connection to the natural environment is a cherished component of our school mission. Our 42-acre campus is used for daily student experience, focusing on outdoor play and exploration, environmental sustainability, gardening, and interaction with our campus animals. Preschool and Pre-K students regularly take their learning outside and utilize many outdoor spaces around our campus. We embrace outdoor experiences even on days that are cold and drizzly. Rain boots, parkas, and clothes that can come home muddy are staples for our young learners!

Enrollment Options for Preschool/Pre-Kindergarten

Students age 3 by September 1 of the current school year

  • 3 Mornings (M, W, F) 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
  • 3 Full Days (M, W, F) 9 a.m. to 3:15 p.m.
  • 5 Mornings (M through F) 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
  • 5 Full Days (M through F) 9 a.m. to 3:15 p.m.

Students age 4 by September 1 of the current school year

  • 3 Full Days (M, W, F) 9 a.m. to 3:15 p.m.
  • 5 Mornings (M through F) 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
  • 5 Full Days (M through F) 9 a.m. to 3:15 p.m.

Mornings on the Meadow

If your child isn't yet old enough to enroll in our Pre-K program, our Mornings on the Meadow class is a great way to begin your High Meadows experience. This one-hour weekly class that children attend alongside a parent or guardian includes hands-on art activities, nature walks, visits with the animals, and planting in the garden. Learn more about our Toddler Program for ages 18 months to 3 years.

Family Participation

High Meadows is a school for you to enjoy alongside your child.  Plentiful opportunities exist for parents and family members to volunteer and share in the joy of their child’s school journey. Families enjoy being part of our community by participating in our family association, coming in to cook and garden, attending family events and campouts, and surprising their child as the “mystery reader” in class!

Our Mornings on the Meadow Toddler Program is a wonderful introduction to High Meadows School for young children ages 18 months to 3 years.

Ready to Come See Us?

Plan Your Visit!
The High Meadows community celebrates and perpetuates each individual’s quest for knowledge and skill, sense of wonder, and connection to the natural environment. We empower each to be a compassionate, responsible, and active global citizen.
Age 3 through Grade 8 | Authorized IB PYP World School
1055 Willeo Road, Roswell, Georgia 30075 | (770) 993-2940 | info@highmeadows.org