Preschool

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 to be offered was for three, four, and five year-olds.  At the time, our founders’ goal was to encourage children to be creative, to have autonomy and to use their decision-making skills in a safe, 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 45 years later, those goals continue to inspire and guide our renowned multiage Pre-K program.

Ours is a SACS accredited program offering the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP).  Our classroom spaces and the daily experience of our students are influenced by the Reggio Emilia philosophies of early childhood education.  A low student-teacher ratio in classes taught by two experienced teachers ensures a balance of attention, small group play and large group activities.  Language arts (including reading, writing, and speaking), mathematics, social studies, science and outdoor education are fully integrated into the daily curriculum.  And our 42 acre campus continues to delight our young students with organic gardens, playgrounds and open spaces, as well as ponies, sheep, goats, rabbits and chickens.

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, library, physical education and barnyard classes.  Part-time students attend the Connections Classes and activities as available to their class during their hours of attendance. A wide range of opportunities for artistic expression through drawing, painting, and three-dimensional exploration are also integrated into the daily curriculum. Mindfulness practices help students gain the most from their school experience while building healthy habits for the future.

Whole Child Focus

Children thrive most when their physical, social, emotional and academic needs are all considered in their daily school experience. High Meadows students are respected as learners, community members, and individuals capable of great things. Their development and growth is supported by intentional integration of physical movement, play, social and friendship skill building, and mindfulness practices alongside play-based academic experiences. High Meadows teachers utilize Positive Discipline principles to assist with classroom management and individual growth, with focus placed on problem solving and self-awareness rather than punishment and rewards.

Outdoor Education

Connection to the natural environment is a cherished component to our school mission. The entirety of our 42 acre campus is used for daily student experience, with focuses placed 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!

Parent 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. Parents enjoy being part of our community by participating in our parent association, coming in to cook and garden, attending family events and camp outs, 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 age 18 months through 3 years.

Call to schedule your Individual Family Tour today! 770-993-2940

• 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.

• 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.