About Us
Who we are
The Ivy School Approach
At The Ivy School, we offer a nurturing preschool environment grounded in the Reggio Emilia approach—an educational philosophy that honors children as curious, capable, and full of potential.
Our classrooms extend seamlessly into nature, where we are deeply committed to bringing children outside to connect, explore, and play in the natural world. Learning emerges through play, exploration, and meaningful relationships both indoors and outdoors, as children experience real cycles of growth, weather, and seasons firsthand.
With a strong focus on community, collaboration, and child-led discovery, we support children in becoming confident, compassionate, and engaged learners.
We’re proud to offer a nurturing, small-group preschool experience with a 5:1 student–teacher ratio. We offer flexible full-day and half-day options. Our Facility Number is: 376630380
Meet Viviana - Founder & Director
With thirteen years of dedicated experience in early childhood education, I bring a unique perspective shaped by a deep respect for children’s natural capacity to learn through play, a strong commitment to Reggio Emilia values, and a passion for nature-based, outdoor learning.
Throughout my teaching journey, I had the privilege of working at a remarkable progressive school in La Jolla, where I developed and led a fully outdoor pre-K classroom. This innovative environment has been one of the most rewarding adventures of my career, allowing me to witness firsthand how children thrive when learning is rooted in nature and play.
I’m excited to bring the knowledge I’ve gained and my passion for early childhood education to this new community. My teaching philosophy is rooted in the Reggio Emilia approach, deeply inspired by the natural world, and grounded in the belief that children learn best through meaningful play experiences.
The Reggio Emilia approach is rooted in a profound belief that children are not empty vessels waiting to be filled, but capable researchers, natural scientists, and creative thinkers who construct their own understanding of the world.
Our Mission
At Ivy School, we honor children as capable researchers and natural learners. We create thoughtfully designed environments where children’s curiosity flourishes.
We embrace the outdoors as an essential learning space where children connect to real cycles of growth, seasons, and the living world.
Our commitment is to nurture confident, connected learners who see themselves as valued contributors to their community.
Our Five Core Values
1. The Image of the Child
At The Ivy School, we see every child as strong, capable, and full of potential. Children don’t need to be “fixed” or molded—they need to be understood, respected, and supported as they make sense of their world. This belief shapes everything we do, from how we design our spaces to how we respond when a child is experiencing big emotions.
2. Emergent Curriculum
Rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all curriculum, we follow the children’s authentic interests and questions. When they become fascinated with how water moves, it becomes our science lab. When they explore fairness in play, it becomes our social studies conversation. Learning is most meaningful when it grows from genuine curiosity.
3. The Environment as the Third Teacher
Our classrooms and outdoor spaces are intentionally designed to spark investigation and wonder. Natural materials, flexible setups, and visible documentation show children that their ideas matter and their thinking has value. The environment isn’t just a backdrop—it’s an active participant in the learning process.
4. Documentation and Reflection
We observe and document children’s learning through photographs, transcripts, and work samples—not for display, but to truly understand how children think. These reflections guide our teaching and help children see themselves as thoughtful, capable learners.
5. Community and Collaboration
Learning is deeply relational. Children learn with and from one another, teachers learn alongside children, and families are essential partners in the journey. We’re not just a school—we’re a community of learners, each contributing our own stories, perspectives, and strengths.
