Schools, Preschools & Camps June 12, 2013

[Berkeley Parents Network]

June 12, 2013


Berkeley Parents Network Schools, Preschools & Camps
Moderator: Jean Fichtenkort
email: bpn...@lists.berkeley.edu

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to post a message
http://parents.berkeley.edu/post_schools.html
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posting deadline: Tuesday midnight

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Contents
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New Questions
BUSD or AUSD schools for a kid on the spectrum?
Carmen's Family Daycare--would you recommend it?
East Bay Chinese School? kid w/out chinese parent
Kensington aftercare programs for kindergartener?
Modesto area preschool/daycare
Piedmont Avenue, Lincoln, & Edison School Reviews?
Preschool for 3 year Old in West Berkeley
Preschool: experience w/ hard-of-hearing kids
Smaller camp for 8 yr old?

Reviews & Replies to Previous Questions
Getting into BUSD Bridge-K (High 5's) w/ May Bday (1)
Kensington Elementary vs. Madera Elementary (1)
Need advice about Palo Alto/Peninsula schools (1)
Oakland Montessori School-current reviews? (1)
Pull our son back a year for kindergarten or not? (3)
Review: Blue Sky Day School has a few openings! (1)
Review: FAME Charter School (1)
Review: Harmony House Learning Center (1)
Review: New House Day School (Daycare N. Berk) (1)
Review: The Children's Garden Alameda (1)
Schools for academically gifted but ''spirited'' k (2)
Summer drama camp for 15 year old (1)
Via Nova in Berkeley? (7)

School & Preschool Openings:
A LITTLE WORLD MONTESSORI PRESCHOOL: RICHMOND; AGES 2 TO 6YRS
Children's Community Center
Kita On Kains- German Bilingual Daycare
Mills College Children's School: Preschool and K-5 Openings
Monte Tavor Spanish Immersion: Openings now and for fall 2013
Rockridge Little School: last minute openings
Skyline Preschool: Part Time Openings Available
Stepping Stone Schoolhouse: Fall Preschool Openings!

Camps & Afterschool: (12)

Info Sessions/Tours/Open House: (1)

Other: (1)
Correction: The School on the Hill contact info



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New Questions
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BUSD or AUSD schools for a kid on the spectrum?
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Hi. We are considering a move to either Berkeley or Albany for our son's education. He was
diagnosed with PDD-NOS at an early age. Thru intensive early intervention, he has thrived.
But he still struggles with his gross and fine motor skills. Multi-tasking is very
challenging (holding onto his social skills for example, while putting together puzzles). He
seems to have challenges with reading comprehension (just can't quite hold onto information).
If you've had experiences with BUSD or ASUD that is relevant, we would love to hear about it
- as well as any advice you might have. Other considerations - racial diversity is also
important to us, as well as a progressive and innovative approach to education. Our son will
be entering Kindergarten next year.
Needing advice on Schools


Carmen's Family Daycare--would you recommend it?
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We've been looking for information on Carmen's Family Daycare in Oakland's Glenview, but
haven't been able to find much. We'd love to hear from families that have experience
there--good or bad. Thanks!
lasa...@gmail.com


East Bay Chinese School? kid w/out chinese parent
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We're considering East Bay Chinese School. (would consider Shoong center, but I think our
daughter is a year too young)
Our daughter is 4 this month had a mandarin speaking nanny for 3 years, but is at an English
language preschool now. There's a good shot she'll go to Yu Ming for kindergarten starting
Fall 2014. We'd like to help her maintain / improve her mandarin in the interim. She's lost
her initiative to speak it, so needs coaxing. Still understands a lot (as far as we can
tell), but rarely speaks any except a few words and a couple songs. Neither my husband or I
speak any Mandarin.
Does the school support kids like this? She's a good kid/student generally - patient,
inquisitive, etc. Is she likely to be the only kid with more limited Mandarin? Do you have
any stories you can tell good or bad?

Also, does anyone know if the adult Mandarin classes are taught at the same time as the kid
classes?
challenged non-speaker wondering how to support daughter


Kensington aftercare programs for kindergartener?
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Was hoping for some input on the 2 aftercare programs offered for Hilltop for my 5 year old
son. How hard is it to get into the Neighborhood School if you are on the waiting list?
Though I do like the programs offered at KASEP, it is a very short program after an extremely
short kindergarten day. Based on other's experiences, is it worth waiting to get into? Just
some concerns since my son is used to a pretty active and stimulating day, from a combination
of his current core school program at JCC plus aftercare, and other activities he's involved
in (judo, swimming, ...).
New to Kensington


Modesto area preschool/daycare
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Anyone have any contacts or history in Modesto? I'm living in Oakland but working in Modesto
and trying to find childcare or preschool for my 21 month old son who is half Mexican half
Arab. I'm looking at Montessori of Modesto but not sure where to find reviews for it. I also
came across Kindercare and realized there is some in the Bay Area (alameda and walnut creek).
What has been your experience with Kindercare? too much or too little structure? Culture of
the company? Any recs for home based daycare welcome as well.

Any help, suggestions or recommendations would be great. Thanks.
Lupe Tovar


Piedmont Avenue, Lincoln, & Edison School Reviews?
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We are house-hunting and anxious for more information about several public elementary schools
out there, for which the reviews in the archives are fairly old (or, in the case of Lincoln,
nonexistent!). If anyone has comments about the following elementary schools, I would LOVE
to hear them.

*Edison Elementary in Alameda (and any general comments about the Alameda schools,
particularly for gifted kids).
*Lincoln Elementary in Oakland. It has crazy high API scores!
*Piedmont Avenue Elementary in Oakland. Particularly interested in this one, as I imagine it
might have changed somewhat after Lakeview Elementary was closed and the boundaries were
redrawn.
Househunter


Preschool: experience w/ hard-of-hearing kids
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We are thinking ahead about preschool options for my 3-year-old son. He is hard-of-hearing
and has been attending the deaf/HoH toddler program with Oakland Unified, and has done really
well there. He will likely be attending a typical elementary school come kindergarten, so we
are looking at the next 2 years as a time for him to transition from a special needs to a
typical setting.

Do any of you have recommendations for a preschool near the
Oakland/Berkeley/Emeryville/Alameda area that has experience with deaf or hard-of-hearing
preschoolers? Or, one that is good with children with special needs in general (he has a few
other health issues, and while his language is great - he speaks and signs - he has speech
needs and can be hard to understand)?

Also, any preschools possibly have an afternoon-only program, since my son will be attending
the OUSD preschool program for deaf/HoH kids in the morning, but we may want to expose him to
typical peers in an afternoon program?

Thank you so much for any leads that you may have!
Don't know where to begin


Preschool for 3 year Old in West Berkeley
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Hello BPN's

I moved to West Berkeley (9th and Jones) in January 2013 and have no idea where to start to
look and apply to preschools for my 2 year son for fall this year.
I started to read through the current advice in past newsletter but still unclear of process.
I would deeply appreciate advice on how to select preschools.
Do I select approx 4 in my neighborhood?
Do you call them and set up appointments and then apply individually?
Then what?
I cannot always check newsletters so any response directly to my email would be great!

Thanks, New mom
Diana Peinado dpein...@gmail.com


Smaller camp for 8 yr old?
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My son is going to a sports camp and an art camp. I am looking for a unique camp to wedge in
between the two for a full summer experience, any suggestions? He prefers smaller camps.
camper mom



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Reviews & Replies to Previous Questions
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Getting into BUSD Bridge-K (High 5's) w/ May Bday
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I asked Interim Co-Superintendent Neil Smith to refer your question to the appropriate
District staff and received the response below.

1) What are our after care options? I know about B.E.A.R.S. (we probably don't meet the
income test) and Berkeley LEARNS. I don't see how I can apply to Berkeley LEARNS since the
deadline is May 31 and you have to specify the campus, but I won't know the TK assignment
until June.
Applying to Berkeley LEARNS is open year round. Families can only apply for the program at
their assigned school site. The May 31st deadline was only indicated on materials distributed
during the first round of BUSD registration. The revised letter indicates that applying for
the program is on-going.

2) What are my chances of getting into Berkeley LEARNS?
Re-enrollment for current participants is still open, so I can't really say at this time.
Priority is given to students currently enrolled and their siblings. Students are then
enrolled in the program on a space availability basis in the order applications are received.
Priority will then be given to students planning to participate full-time, followed by
part-time.

3) If TK is in one place and aftercare another, how are kids transported?
Per funding requirement, we can only offer the Berkeley LEARNS After School program to
students attending that school site. Fortunately, in BUSD there is an on-site after school
option on all elementary and middle campuses.

4) Are there any aftercare options where there is flexibility to occasionally pick up after6?
Berkeley LEARNS operates as soon as school is dismissed until 6pm. The program does not offer
services after 6pm.

5) How much do the public programs cost? Private programs? I need care from the end of the
transitional kindergarten day (I don't even know what time school lets out) until 5 or 6.
Berkeley LEARNS Fee Scale is on our web page at berkeleyschools.net. The rates for this year
will carry over for the 2013-14 school year.

6) Is choosing aftercare basically the same as choosing daycare/preschool: there are a
million private options and you just have to do a lot of research?
Yes. Berkeley LEARNS and BEARS though are implemented by BUSD employees. The programs support
and complement the regular school day and intentional design enrichment activities that focus
on youth's academic development.
School Board President Karen Hemphill


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Kensington Elementary vs. Madera Elementary
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We live in El Cerrito and have an incoming kindergartener, so have researched the area
schools but not yet experienced firsthand. I have heard that the PTAs at both Madera and
Kensington are intense - participation and contribution is expected from every family. I am
guessing you are going by scores in your decision, and that is certainly one measure of a
school's quality, but (assuming you're decided on the EC area) I'd encourage you to check out
Mira Vista, Fairmont, and Harding Schools as well before buying a new house. All three of
those schools have leadership that I have heard parents be enthused about (check BPN archives
for starters), and in particular at Fairmont I have heard very positive parent feedback about
particular teachers and no negative feedback on any teacher. Each of those three schools has
lower API scores, but I believe as much to offer in terms of the school community. In sum, we
did apply for intra-district transfer from our home school, and have yet to hear, but even if
we got into Madera, we'd think long and hard about if us parents were ready to commit to the
PTA and subject our child to the academic pressure there. Hope this gives you some food for
thought.
EC Mom


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Need advice about Palo Alto/Peninsula schools
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You may not find any school for your child in Palo Alto or the Peninsula.

We researched and searched for several years to find a school that fit our child's needs and
learning style. We did find them in the East Bay but not in Palo Alto where we lived or on
the Peninsula.

Really you have to understand that because of the wealth in so many cities, including Palo
Alto, on the Peninsula, those rich cities have great school districts and there really isn't
a need for alternatives.

Affluent parents just pay for tutors so their kids 'fit' in at school. Or they send their
kids to private schools in San Francisco, boarding schools back East, or they move away like
we did.

That said the only school that I know of that might fit the bill for you is The Neuva School
which is for gifted kids and is very innovative. I don't have any personal experience with
it, but heard great things about it.

You should also look into the Parents Club of Palo Alto and Menlo Park and tap into their
resources for more up to date info.

Good Luck.
Former Peninsula Mom

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Oakland Montessori School-current reviews?
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As a former OMS parent, I have mixed feelings about the preschool. OMS might be the right fit
for some children and families, but certainly not right for everyone. It certainly ended up
not being the best place for us and my child is now much happier elsewhere.

OMS is not a warm and fuzzy place. Instead, teachers generally observe from a distance and
students are expected to engage themselves. After some time, I decided that I was not
thrilled with the 3-5 year old classroom as age-group cliques were small and tight, which
left younger students without many same-age playmate options.

In retrospect, I'm not sure we got our money's worth, as the classroom component was only in
the morning and the tuition ($1,530/month for 8:30-4:30), plus additional monthly costs
(gymnastics, music, field trips are extra), was expensive compared to other comparable
Montessori programs.

When we reported seeing an afterschool caretaker shove my daughter from behind, we were
disappointed that the Director didn't consider our request that the caretaker stay an arm's
length away from our child. Instead, she suggested confining my daughter to a certain area
or withdrawing from the school. I was at a loss for words when this community we had embraced
so suddenly made us feel completely unwelcome, so we took the opportunity and left.
Former OMS parent


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Pull our son back a year for kindergarten or not?
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Our daughter has a September birthday and after consultation with her preschool, which
offered a transitional K program, they advised that she was ready to go to K at age four.
Kindergarten was fine, but now that she's in second grade (and to a certain extent in first)
I'm noticing that there's a very real difference in terms of ability to sit still and in
terms of social maturity. In our district it's very common to redshirt kids, and there's very
few kids her age in her class, and lots who are a year or 18 months older. Academically she's
fine, and even ahead in several areas, but I kind of wish we'd waited. We may end up doing a
sabbatical at some point, and if we do that I may just use that as a time to repeat a year
after we come back.

On the other hand my older daughter was a June birthday, and she was fine starting as a young
five year old, so it really does depend on the kid. Kids who have excellent self regulation
and social skills may do fine, but more impulsive kids may well benefit from an extra year.
Wish we'd waited

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Sorry I didn't see this first time but have to respond. You always hear that you will never
regret holding them back. But I am a parent who really does. My son has a Sept birthday and
we waited the year due to some behavioral / social skills issues. Kindergarten this year has
been awful. All of the behavioral issues are still there but now he's the oldest kid. He's
really bright and is completely unstimulated academically and its just made his behavioral
problems worse.
I don't know what the right decision for you is but just chiming in as an example where
holding back was probably not the right decision.

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I would trust your own gut about your child (who you have known all of his life better than
anyone else), rather than giving over your decision-making to teachers who have only observed
him for 15 minutes. I know that holding kids back is hip and trendy lately, but it is not the
right decision for every kid. There will always be a youngest and an oldest - big whoop. If
he is ready, I say honor that and don't hold him back.
Trust mama's instinct!


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Review: Blue Sky Day School has a few openings!
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Blue Sky Day School is a hidden gem. This play-based preschool in Northwest Berkeley has
been wonderful village school for our two children, at their every stage.

Not only does the school have a bountiful garden, a tumble space for rainy days, and a
seemingly endless and organized rotation of play materials, the children also go on small
field trips and to an annual class at the Lawrence Hall of Science.

But the teachers make Blue Sky Day School extra special. They share their love of nature,
cooking, gardening, art, story-telling, music, Spanish, etc. to the children; all to
stimulate their curiosity, imagination, and to develop their sense of identity. Plus, if you
are looking for a male teacher, inquire here. The kids love theirs. Thank you Blue Sky Day
School!
- Pleased Parent -
License: 013417901


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Review: FAME Charter School
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We were with FAME charter school, as homeschoolers in El Cerrito for several years. We loved
our ''teacher'' whom we checked in with once a month, and appreciated the funds they provided
-- we mostly used them for piano lessons or other classes. FAME does not have their own
classes, as Hickman does, so it is really a different set-up. Feel free to contact me for
more info about FAME and homeschooling in general, if you like.
lori...@gmail.com


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Review: Harmony House Learning Center
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Harmony House Learning Center is a very special place for our family.
Our daughter has been there since she was 2 and she is now super prepared to head into
kindergarden & my son has been at HH since he was 3 months old and is a happy well adjusted
wild man (18 months)!
I have always felt that when I drop them off they are in a safe, loving, grounded space.
I truly believe in the philosophy of both guided and free play - days with structure but lots
of room for discovery and self directed play!
Our kids have been exposed to art, nature, environment, music, and fun field trips and fed
healthy snacks.
Teachers are wonderful - warm, engaging and caring.
Monica is very communicative and keeps you updated on lesson plans, the kids progress and
any developments that happen relavent to the school.
These kids get plenty of time in the sunshine and seem to learn new things each day. I cant
say enough good things about this wonderful place.
Bonus: Be sure to ask about date night!
Sarah


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Review: New House Day School (Daycare N. Berk)
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At New House Day School, my daughter has gotten so many of the advantages of a preschool, but
with the intimacy of a small daycare. They offer science and library field trips, swimming
and music lessons, and do projects in cooking, gardening, etc. The staff is warm, loving,
and thoughtful. My daughter has a special diet and they’ve been very conscientious about
it. The children play in a sunny, open addition in the back, with three classrooms, a grassy
outdoor area, a clubhouse, a trike area, sandbox, and swing set. The staff is made up of a
stable, professional group of adults who are all experienced teachers and moms. We wanted a
bilingual school, and the teachers at New House are all bilingual in either Spanish or
French, with a diverse group of teachers and kids. My daughter is getting a wonderful
play-based education.

They also have pot luck parties at least quarterly for all of the families. I love this!
Families love the school so much that they come to the parties with kids who have already
graduated.

When I have needed extended care, they’ve been incredibly flexible and affordable. They
have openings for both boys and girls this summer and fall. Any family would be lucky to
join our school community!
Thrilled Mom
License: 010213948


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Review: The Children's Garden Alameda
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Our daughter has flourished at The Children's Garden Alameda. Mary has a great program and
it is a very structured environment. Our daughter LOVES being there. Then there is the
amazing garden, my daughter loves the chickens and can't wait to tell us about the garden,
especially the strawberries and tomatoes. Mary is loving and firm. Our daughter has been
with Mary two years and will be graduating and fully prepared for kindergarten in August. We
love Mary and feel so blessed that she has been a part of our daughter's life.
Anne Marie


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Schools for academically gifted but ''spirited'' k
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You could have described my son! Brilliant AND highly-spirited. I strongly encourage you to
check out Beacon Day School in Oakland. They really understand all kinds of kids, and
especially get that young kids just aren't meant for sitting still all day with their hands
folded on a desk!

See beaconday.org for more information
Very Happy Beacon Parent

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From all that I've read and observed, ''high-achieving'' and moderately gifted kids who
follow the rules are often a better fit for traditional academic schools. Usually, the higher
the IQ, the less likely the child will fit into a rigid program. My own 99th percentile kid
is far too curious and quirky to sit still and follow a fixed teacher-driven program. He
needs to be able to explore, ask a million questions, and yes, he'll test the rules. Also, he
needs to connect emotionally with the teachers / adults in charge, and he generally does
better with older kids.

I have looked for schools willing and able to offer the most flexibility in both placement
and curriculum, as well as mixed-age classes and teachers who are able to connect with the
kids in a mutually respectful way. If you can find a gifted school in the area to which you
are re-locating, that would be ideal. They cater specifically to kids like ours. If not
available...it takes much more digging to find a fit.

This year we had a wonderful experience with a progressive private school, which is,
unfortunately, closing. Next year, we are trying out a public school with a Spanish immersion
program and a welcoming, flexible principal, who is both willing to honor my son's
acceleration (he started a full year early), and work out a program for him, where, for
example, he may attend math in a class yet one grade higher...we'll see how it goes.

Best of luck!
Another gifted & spirited kid's mama


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Summer drama camp for 15 year old
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If your child would like a 6 to 8 week immersion in the performing arts, and would like to
perform in either ''The Phantom Tollbooth'' or ''Legally Blond'' or both, I can recommend
Stage Door Conservatory.

Based in North Berkeley for the past 15 summers, Stage Door's camps provide a rewarding,
enriching, memorable summer experience for creative and creatively-curious children in grades
5 - 12.

No experience is needed, though even young actors with well-honed skills enjoy the camp's
programs.

Stage Door offers Kids on Stage for rising 2nd - 6th graders, On Broadway for children in
grades 5 - 9 and Teens on Stage for children in grades 8 -12.

This year, award-winning arts educator, choreographer and director, Russell Wright, will
direct Teens on Stage. Award-winning director, Arlene Hood, will direct On Broadway, and very
popular veteran Stage Door director, Carla Lucero, will direct Kids on Stage.

Sessions are held from 9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. beginning June 24 and ending August 16. Aftercare
is available until 6:00 is available. Sessions are two, six and eight weeks long, depending
on the
program.

In addition to learning and practicing the arts of singing, dance, drama and stage craft your
son or daughter will rehearse and perform in a staged production of a musical play as part of
his or her summer experience.

On Broadway will perform the musical version of ''The Phantom Tollbooth.'' Teens on Stage
will perform ''Legally Blonde The Musical'' and our younger actors will perform in plays
written by beloved children's author, Roald Dahl, including ''Charlie and the Chocolate
Factory.''

The cost per week is $325 and financial aid is available.

We are offering a substantial discount to any family who enrolls their child AND recruits
another child to join them in On Broadway.

Inspiring, uplifting, engaging, imaginative, joyful, heart-warming, egalitarian and
educative, our programs teach children to become both performers and students of life.

Contact 510-521-6250 or stagedoorc...@yahoo.com for information or visit our website
at stagedoorconservatory.org
rawna romero


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Via Nova in Berkeley?
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Hi there - both of my daughters graduated from Via Nova (in 2010 & 2012), and the second one
was there during the ''transition year'', which was the 2011-12 school year. I only have a
few minutes to respond to your question - hopefully a current parent will pipe in, too. I
must say, our family was happy with our experience.

As for the new director, Franca stepped right in and made the transition remarkably smooth.
The only big change we noticed was a dramatic increase in communication, which was quite
welcome.

I think any complaints people had about the volunteer hours were actually less about the
number of hours (they weren't too many, and I always appreciated having the connection with
the school) and more about getting the opportunities to fulfill the hours. In my opinion,
this was a communication failure. And seeing how Franca has been an excellent communicator, I
would guess that this has been resolved.

Good luck with your preschool search!
Sofia

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I know you wanted current families but my daughter graduated from Via Nova 1.5 years ago but
we visit often and have followed the changes. The main change was the sudden death of the
owner Tisha who was amazing. Since her passing the school was saved by committed parents,
teachers and friends. The new head of the school Franca is wonderful. She is kind, caring and
extemely well educated and experienced in child development and education. She was a former
teacher at Via Nova who went on to run other programs. The school is doing wonderfully!
Almost all of the teachers have been there for many years. The school has an amazing huge
yard for play and a garden and the classrooms are filled with wonderful projects, art and
play. The kids also take field trips. The parent participation in my opinion is great and
quite flexible. Some people help in the classroom or teach enrichment, others help with
office or website issues, others plan fundraisers or help with maintainence projects. There
is something for everyone. These are the things that help keep Via Nova much more affordable
than most Berkeley preschools and more diverse. The Spanish Language component is also a
great plus! I highly recommend Via Nova. My child thrived there and loves to visit!
former Via Nova Parent

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We have been a happy Via Nova family for four years and counting! The new director, Franca,
is wonderful - organized, truly dedicated to Via Nova, incredibly knowledgeable about early
childhood development. She will often stop you to tell you a little story about your child's
adventures that day! The teachers are some of the best! Long tenure, dedicated to the kids,
and SO patient. Under their loving tutelage, our kids have learned how to relate to
themselves and to others. Yes, a lot of parent participation is required - that is what has
kept the tuition lower than most of other schools.
a happy via nova parent

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I am a current Via Nova parent (my daughter is 4, and my son (6 now in K) graduated from VN
last year) and our family *loves* Via Nova. Our kids have very different
interests/personalities (one more cerebral/science-oriented, and one more dramatic/physically
exploratory), and both have loved it for different reasons, with teachers really “getting”
each of them, their needs, and interests. We LOVE the teachers, who are warm, great with
boundaries and helping kids express ideas and resolve conflicts, and great at stimulating the
interests of the kids, and we love the focus on spanish and play. The new director, Franca
Cioria, is lovely – she has been in early childhood education for ages, worked at Via Nova
with the former director/owner (she helped found the two's program at VN 10 years ago), so
was already familiar with many of the teachers (all of whom have stayed through the
transition in leadership). Personally, I also love the other families and have made close
friends and an overall strong community of Berkeley/Oakland families. In terms of volunteer
hours – the # hours vary (~ 16 hours/year for 1 kid and 2 adult family), but you can work
the hours however it works for you (grilling at annual camping trip, helping at yard sale,
helping out in other ways based on your strengths/interests). Highly recommend! Please feel
free to email me for questions. There may be space for a girl in the fall. Check out the new
website for lots of info: http://www.vianovapreschool.com/.
Liz White lizo...@yahoo.com

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I am the mother of an almost 5 year old who is in her second year at Via Nova and I have no
hesitation about recommending the school to prospective parents. It is a warm nurturing
environment with caring, seasoned teachers who really teach kids how to be little citizens
and get along with their peers. There is very little staff turnover, which I think speaks
well of the school. They spend a good amount of time outdoors both in the morning and the
afternoon - often left to the child's choice.

The school has changed hands in the last year and though people miss the prior director's
style, I would say that overall I think the school is better organized. Some might feel that
it has lost lost some of it's ''co-op'' identity in the transition. I still feel it is a
great community of diverse like-minded families. The volunteering requirement is 18 hrs per
year for a 2 parent family. We don't find it too burdensome and enjoy the involvement.

We have had a great experience at Via Nova, and though we are off to K in the fall, I plan on
sending my second daughter to VN in a couple of years as well.
happy Via Nova parent

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Via Nova has been the most amazing experience for my family and I highly, highly encourage
you to look into Via Nova for your family as well. The teachers are incredible, the families
supportive, the learning & play methodology was all the best fit for us - not to mention the
wonderful yard and gardening program, in addition to field trips, art, music and more. We
were at the school during the transition you spoke of, and, though it feels too personal for
me to write about publicly, I will gladly answer any questions you have directly if you (or
anyone for that matter) contacts me directly. I will say that the new Director, Franca, was
the best thing that could have happened to Via Nova during this transitional period, and the
school and children are thriving as a result. As for the volunteering, I don't want to
minimize anyone else's experience around this, but, for me, the sense of community I felt
from working closely with other families at the school these last years also helped my family
to get through some challenging times in our own lives as well, and I don't know that we
would have felt that support had we not all volunteered in school activities together.

Basically, I encourage you to contact me (tann...@gmail.com) contact the school, go on a
tour - I hope you'll fall in love with it as I have. My son has been well cared for, and I've
always felt him to be in the best hands at Via Nova.
Tanner

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Hi There,

Our son was at Via Nova during the time when the previous director passed away, a temporary
director was brought on, and eventually the permanent director was hired. Despite the
transition we found the school to be exceptional in so many ways and our son completely
thrived. They give the children lots of flexibility to choose activities and our outdoor
loving son got plenty of outdoor time. He came home tired, dirty and happy. He loved his
teachers, as did we...and now that we're in kindergarten we miss the wonderful Via Nova
community. Teachers choose fun and education topics and develop all kinds of learning
activities focused on these topics. Children really do learn how to celebrate diversity and
work out there conflict in ways I frequently wish adults could replicate. We have really
connected with Franca the current director, and have stayed in touch with the school and
other Via Nova families since our son entered transitional kindergarten last fall. We are
really looking forward to having our two year old daughter join the Via Nova community later
this year. The volunteer requirements were not particularly hard for our family despite both
parents working full time jobs. We've recommended Via Nova to many friends and cant say
enough good things about the school.
happy via nova parent




==========================================================
School/Preschool Openings
==========================================================

Rockridge Little School: last minute openings
-------------------------------------------
Rockridge Little School is a vibrant, engaging, nurturing preschool and we have a couple of
last minute openings starting this summer or fall!

As you walk through the doors at RLS you will see creativity at its best. The teachers and
kids together, breathe life and color into the school. At each table there is an
imaginative, inspired engaging project for the kids to immerse themselves in with teacher
support. We have an incredible dramatic play area, “book nook”, block area, outside play
structure- the fun never ends! The teachers at RLS, are loving, dedicated educators who are
constantly inspired by the kids around them.

Please take a look at our website, www.rockridgelittleschool.com, and then call the school!
College Ave (510) 420-1200, and Taft Ave (510) 658-2034.

License: 013420925


A Little World Montessori Preschool: Richmond; Ages 2 to 6yrs
-------------------------------------------
Make it convenient to parents, We do not charge last month deposit,
We do not have contracts. You can leave school at any time if you do not happy with our work
or if you have other financial difficulties.
Sura De alwis sdeal...@yahoo.com
License: 073405005


Mills College Children's School: Preschool and K-5 Openings
-------------------------------------------
Children at Mills College? Yes! Nestled in the heart of a beautiful campus, MCCS is
celebrating 85 years of excellence in education, specializing in childhood development for
ages 0-10 and serving infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and elementary students.

We have limited openings in our Early Childhood program for the 2013-14 school year and are
looking for girls born between 1/1/10 and 7/31/10 for the mixed-age Geranium Preschool
classroom, M-F 8:30-3:30.

We are also still accepting K-5 applications and have limited openings in several classrooms.
For the 2013-14 school year, MCCS will accept Kindergarten applications for students who will
be 5 years old by December 1, 2013. During classroom visits, we assess each child to
determine readiness for either our K/1 class or separate Kindergarten, which focuses on a
wide range of 4-5 year-olds with a maximum of just 14 students.

Here is what makes our lab school so special:
*Highly-qualified Head Teachers and dedicated student teachers in every classroom
*Low teacher:student ratio that exceeds Childcare Licensing requirements in our Early
Childhood programs
*Small classes with a target size of 20 or less in Elementary School
*Integrated K-5 curriculum with math, language arts, visual art, science, music and movement,
and physical education
*Strong social-emotional component
*iPads utilized as teaching tools in 2nd-5th grade
*After school care on Elementary School campus until 5:45 pm, including a variety of
enrichment options, such as dance, cooking, Legos, and chess

To apply, please visit out website
at:http://www.mills.edu/campus_life/childrens_school/current_openings.php
Contact Whitney at 510.430.2053 or wwa...@mills.edu for a private tour.

And don't forget about our Hot Fun in the Summertime Camp for children entering grades K
through 5! During six one-week sessions running from June 17 through July 26, children will
enjoy weekly thematic sessions, kicking off with circus arts, and including Mad Science, Lego
engineering (hosted by Play-Well TEKnologies), martial arts, cooking, and more. For the month
of July (sessions 3-6), children will trek over to the Mills College Pool for a splashing
good time every Friday afternoon, and during Session 4 (Water World), campers will swim every
day. Sign up for as many sessions as you would like! Please register online
athttps://commerce.cashnet.com/mills_cs_prod. Questions? Email chil...@mills.edu or call
510.430.2118.
Whitney Walker, Admissions Director


Stepping Stone Schoolhouse: Fall Preschool Openings!
-------------------------------------------
Stepping Stone Schoolhouse is a small Montessori-based preschool located in El Cerrito near
the EC Community Center. We tailor our program to the individual student with a
teacher-student ratio of six to one. Director and head teacher Tew (Tay-oo) Pakawongse has
more than 20 years of experience in Early Childhood Education.

We offer a rich learning environment combined with an understanding of the value of play in a
child’s development. Children are exposed to music, art, science, and cooking. One of our
staff is bilingual and the children learn basic Spanish. At the core of our philosophy is a
deep respect for a child’s capacity and desire to learn.

At Stepping Stone Schoolhouse, parents meet with the teachers regularly to discuss and
evaluate their child’s progress.

We encourage you to contact us and arrange a tour. For more information about Stepping Stone
Schoolhouse, please visit our website and gallery at: steppingstoneschoolhouse.com or you can
contact Tew at: (510) 685-3212 or teach...@gmail.com
Tew Pakawongse
License: 073407269


Children's Community Center
-------------------------------------------
Opening at CCC for the Fall 2013

Children’s Community Center (est. 1927) is a welcoming,
diverse community. CCC is a parent-teacher cooperative
preschool with a play-based, developmental program. A
professional teaching staff directs the program and parents
support by working in the classroom and doing most
administrative duties. CCC offers a daily morning program
(9:00 am-12:30 pm) with extended care available (8-9 am and
12:30-5:30 pm). Financial aid is available. Please see our
website for more information.

There is a current opening for a child who will be 4 years
old by 9/1/13 to join our older (''backyard'') classroom (4-5
years old) in the fall.

You must tour before you may apply. To sign up for a tour,
email in...@cccpreschool.org or call 510-528-6975.
Betsy Candler
License: 010200115


Skyline Preschool: Part Time Openings Available
-------------------------------------------
Make New Friends, Connect with Nature, Learn through Play

For over 30 years, Skyline Preschool has provided children with a creative, stimulating, and
nurturing environment in which to learn and grow. We feel that children learn best through
play and discovery. We foster a child’s natural inclination to explore their world, ask
questions, make connections, talk with other children and adults, and become independent.
Creativity is encouraged through music, art, storytelling, dance and play. Children spend
quality time on our beautiful pine forested playground riding bikes and trikes, gardening,
playing in our large sand area, exploring water play, and making new friends!

3Day and 4Day Openings available-start in JULY, AUG or SEPT
Open 7am-6pm
Please visit our website: skylineucc.org/preschool/ for more information
call (510) 530-0884 for a tour!
12540 Skyline Boulevard, Oakland, Ca 94619
Bernadette Quattrone det...@gmail.com
License: 010200602


Kita On Kains- German Bilingual Daycare
-------------------------------------------
Kita on Kains is a licensed German bilingual daycare located in a cozy home setting with a
backyard lawn play area. We offer a warm and nurturing environment care in our sunny home
located on the Berkeley/Albany border near Marin Ave. Our home is smoke-free and cleaned only
with eco-friendly products.

We provide an age-appropriate and play-based program with a curriculum that is tailored to
meet each child's individual needs. In our small group setting each child receives the
special care and attention they need. Our daily schedule includes indoor and outdoor free
play activities and also will include guided activities, such as circle time, dance, music,
story time, art, and dramatic play with an emphasis on German language. Healthy organic
snacks will be provided

We are now accepting enrollments for late August 2013. We have 2 part-time openings (for
mornings 8:30am-1pm) available for children 18 months and up.

Catrina Sheen is a licensed daycare provider with over 13 years of experience teaching
children. She has a certification in CPR/First Aid. She studied education and dance in
Germany before immigrating to the USA in 2002, where she studied Early Childhood Education at
Merritt College. She has worked and thought in the Bay Area in dance schools and German
language schools, including Shan Yee Poon Ballet School, the Bay Area KinderStube and the
German School of San Francisco.

Feel free to take a look at our webpage: www.kitaonkains.com

Please contact us to schedule a visit to see if our home daycare is a good fit for your
needs. References available upon request. We look forward to hearing from you!
catrin...@yahoo.com
License: 013421301


Monte Tavor Spanish Immersion: Openings now and for fall 2013
-------------------------------------------
Monte Tavor is a Spanish Immersion program for infants, toddlers and preschoolers. Our major
emphasis is language development for the bilingual and multilingual child. The program is
based on children's interest, teachers' observations, theoretical implications with emergent
themes as well as our developmental approach on censorial activities and the equilibrium.

Children acquire language and become bilingual thru music, songs, dance, dramatic play, free
choice, reading, writing, and arts using natural ingredients. Children are exposed to
science on animal habitats and science experiments/discoveries for expanding conceptual
thinking and the emotional, social, physical and cognitive development.

The program was founded in 1994, by a woman from Nicaragua and her family. From the start
their belief in a bilingual education for young children was important in creating a program
for families in diverse cultural groups and have children become fluent in Spanish to prepare
them for a much more advanced education.

For receiving an e-mail packet, send an e-mail to hmont...@aol.com. You can also check
reviews on Monte Tavor at www.savvysource.com, Yelp, and berkeleyparentsnetwork. or call
(510) 531-3328 or Admissions contact Yeira at (510) 967-1894. The location is 3520 Laguna
Avenue Oakland, CA 94602.
Yeira Howell yei...@aol.com
License: 013416271



==========================================================
Camps & Afterschool
==========================================================

Berkeley Rose School Arts & Nature Camps: Ages 3.5 to 9
-------------------------------------------
Join Berkeley Rose School for a summer of art, hiking, and play in nature--right in the
heart of Berkeley! Curriculum and rhythms are based on Waldorf curriculum, and taught by
Berkeley Rose teachers or outside teachers with certification in Waldorf education.
Hurry--enrollment is nearly full for the summer!

Marigold Camp (for children ages 3 to 5)
Daily rhythms will include circle time, story, wet felting, sewing, nap/quiet time, and trips
to redwood groves, trails, and streams at nearby Live Oak and Codornices Parks.

Rose Camp (for children ages 5 to 9)
Monday through Thursday, children meet at the school and continue via a short bus ride to
Tilden Park for all-day activities and hiking. They return to the school in time for pickup.
Fridays will be spent at the school, with puppetry and painting workshops and a visit to
nearby Codornices or Live Oak Park.

After-care option available for both camps. Sibling discounts available.

More info and
registration:http://www.berkeleywaldorf.org/Berkeley_Rose_School/Summer_Camp.html

***
Berkeley Rose School
License: 013420958


Russian Language/ Culture Immersion Camp
-------------------------------------------
Russian Language & Culture Immersion summer camp (age 5- 10) in 2013:

Monday, July 29 - Friday, August 2 -one week sessions.
9:00am-1pm

Russian immersion camp for kids from 5 to 10 years old open to all language skill levels.

We offer half- day program that include Russian language and literature lessons. Also, kids
will be introduced to Russian language through traditional games, crafts, stories, and more.

Programs will be directed by experienced and qualified teachers and coaches, who share a
passion for working with children.
This program will be of interest to anyone who is looking for a summer course combining
effective Russian language learning and interesting leisure activities.

$170 for whole week (5 days)
$40 per day
Financial aid is available.

Call (510) 528-3540 Svetlana to register or register online
athttp://russianprogram.org/registration
Russian Program Coordinator


HNU Summer Chorus Camp: July 8-12
-------------------------------------------
Hi parents! Holy Names University is offering a great opportunity for students entering
3rd-6th grades to explore choral singing and musicianship. If your child has some experience
singing and would like to continue, or if they want to try out singing in a choir for the
first time, this is a great place to start! The cost is only $80 for a weeklong day camp.
Faculty will be myself and Piedmont Choirs' Andrew Brown; both of us received our master's
degrees in music education from Holy Names. For more information, see our flier (below) or
call
emailmargarita.alway@gmail.com.http://www.hnu.edu/academics/graduatePrograms/documents/summer-chorus-camp-flyer.pdf
Rita Alway margari...@gmail.com


Summer Farm Camp at Urban Adamah
-------------------------------------------
Camp Urban Adamah: Earthy summer fun on the farm!

Urban Farm Summer Camp

Camp Urban Adamah in Berkeley
http://urbanadamah.org/programs/summer-camp/
Ages 5-10
At Camp Urban Adamah, we offer campers a taste of organic farm life through fun and dynamic
hands-on programs at our urban farm. Our camp sessions are inspired by children’s
natural curiosity and innate connectedness to the earth. Whether they are planting,
harvesting, building mud forts or preparing meals in our solar ovens, campers have the
opportunity to explore the wonders of the natural world right here in the city.

Camp Urban Adamah also draws inspiration from Jewish wisdom and tradition. In a vibrant and
progressive atmosphere, campers learn about Judaism’s deep relationship to the
environment, farming, food and environmental stewardship, and how these values apply to our
world today.

Summer 2013 Dates
June 17–21: A Taste of Farm Life*
July 22–26: Garden Chefs*
July 29–Aug 2: Farm Detectives*
Aug 5–Aug 9: Garden Chefs
Aug 12–16: Earth Builders
Aug 19–23: Global Village
*After-Camp extended day option (3–5pm) is available for these programs for an additional
fee.
Kimberly kimb...@urbanadamah.org


COOK! Programs: Cooking for youth, 9 - 18
-------------------------------------------
Still haven't found the right fit for your kids this summer? Send them to cooking camp! They
will eat well, have fun, learn how to clean, and come home wanting to make you dinner. Many
of our camps are full, or close to it, but there are still some excellent classes with room.
Here are some highlights:

Shorter afternoon classes
Afternoon Snacks in the Park (http://pauldingandco.com/cook/events/afternoon-snacks-park-517)
This series of classes runs every week, Mondays - Fridays, from June 17th - August 2nd, from
2:30PM - 5:00PM. Each week has a different international theme, as follows: Cuba, Brazil,
Spain, Morocco, India, Bhutan/Tibet/Nepal, and Thailand. Groups will be making small dishes
each day and then heading to the park to picnic and play. For ages 9 - 14. $250/week

Advanced Baking, for ages 9 - 12
(http://pauldingandco.com/cook/events/advanced-baking-sections-b-498), July 8 - 12, 9:00AM -
2:00PM, $540
Does your child love to bake and already have a grasp on the basics? Send them to be
challenged and rewarded in this exciting class. The kids will make everything from pastry
cream to croissants.

Discovering Foods, for ages 13 - 16
(http://pauldingandco.com/cook/events/discovering-food-499), two week class from July 8 -
July 19, 9:00AM - 2:00PM, $1025
This creative class draws on intuition, experimentation, and tradition as paths to honing
keen culinary skills. Go beyond the recipe!

Advanced Cooking Techniques, for ages 13 - 16
(http://pauldingandco.com/cook/events/advanced-cooking-techniques-500), July 15 - 19, 9:00AM
- 2:00PM, $540
For kids who have a handle on the basics, learn more advanced techniqes, beginning with an
expanded mis en place, and diving into the art and science of cooking.

The Lucky Lunchbox, for ages 9 - 12
(http://pauldingandco.com/cook/events/lucky-lunch-box-504), July 29 - August 2, 9:00AM -
2:00PM, $540
Reinvent the midday meal and be the envy of your classmates! Featuring fresh ingredients,
prepared in creative ways.

Restaurant COOK!, for ages 9 - 12 & 13 - 16
(http://pauldingandco.com/cook/events/restaurant-cook-sections-b-506), two week class from
August 5 - 16, 9:00AM - 2:00PM, $1025
Spend two weeks conceptualizing, planning, practicing, and executing your own one-time
restaurant. Parents are invited to be guests for the grand opening.

For more information or to register, visit our website: www.cookprograms.com
510-594-1104, co...@pauldingandco.com
Tracy Cates


Classroom Matters Summer Camp: Still room for July and August
-------------------------------------------
This summer, Classroom Matters is offering a day camp for students in grades K-5 based at St.
Alban’s Church in Albany. Camp is from 9am to 6pm, Monday through Friday, unless otherwise
noted.

Campers will be doing a variety of things, including yoga, sports, cooking, gardening, arts
and crafts, blowing bubbles, swinging, jumping rope, and going on a couple of field trips.
These trips will be either on foot or on the bus to local venues–the North Branch Library,
Indian Rock, The Bone Room, Albany Bulb, and bowling are some of the things we have planned.

Our goal is to go back to simplicity – using our imaginations, our bodies, and the objects
around us to have fun. There are also a couple of really big Lego bins.

The weeks for the camps are as follows:

week of July 1st (no camp on the 4th)
week of July 15th
week of July 22nd
weeks of August 19th & 26th(only Monday and Tuesday of those weeks)

The cost for all the weeks except July 1st is $350 per child. The cost for the week of July
1st is $300. The two-day sessions are $140 per camper.

For more information and to register, please contact tat...@classroommatters.com.
Tatiana Guerreiro Ramos suzuk...@yahoo.com


Ms. Shari Anokye: Field trips start June 15th.
-------------------------------------------
Mama Shari's Field Trop
summer program

Join Mama Shari's Field Trip Summer Program.

Free pick-up and delivery.

Field Trips go From 10 am to 5pm we explore Bay Areas nature parks. All venues are free
entry.

We visit:
Tilden Park
Alameda beach
Berkeley marina
Golden Gate Park
And so many more places.......

Low rates for the summer. Small groups of 6 to 7 kids between the ages of 6 to 10 years old.

One week Field Trips plan - $100
Best deal in town.

Program starts Saturday June 15th.
Weekly Trips till Saturday August 31st. Book one week or the whole fun filled summer.

License certified mature teacher in charge of the program.

Call Mama Shari at
510-878-0387 or send email to:
sanokye1@ yahoo.com
Limited space available so call now.
:()
Shari Anokye sano...@yahoo.com


Trusting The Wise Girl Within: A Day Camp for Girls 10 - 13
-------------------------------------------
The Preteen years are a critical time when learning social emotional skills
can be key to successfully navigating Middle School. Developing the ability
to listen to their inner guidance and learning skills to negotiate peer
interactions can help girls avoid looking outward for validation.

In this week-long day camp we will point Girls inward by facilitating active
reflection, teaching communication and conflict resolution skills and guiding
girls to their own wisdom, through fun and engaging interactive processes.
Art, zumba , hiking and nature time will make learning these new skills fun!

Girls will explore:
1. What makes a good friend and what friendship values are important.
2. The ways Girls bully that are different from boys and what to do about it.
3. Emotions, reactions and stress and how to positively address them.
4. Healthy boundaries and social media guidelines.
5. Fun Role Plays of various friendship scenarios to practice skills and gain
confidence in standing in who they are.

When: Day camps June 24th - 28th AND July 8 - 12th

Where: Berkeley within walking distance of Cordonices Park (we will spend
time there for much of the camp)

Cost: $250 (early drop off and late pick up available at no charge)

Contact: Patricia Lutke 510-527-1242 plu...@yahoo.com
website: www.wisegirlwithin.com
Patti Lutke plu...@yahoo.com


Kensington Hilltop Afterschool for K/1: Growing Light Montessori
-------------------------------------------
Growing Light Montessori School of Kensington offers a Kensington Hilltop afterschool program
for Kindergarten and 1st grade students, including a pickup (on foot) at either 11:35 or
2:20.

Our fun, enriching afterschool program includes recess, rest/quiet time, and academic
enrichment on our beautiful campus just mintes' walk from Hilltop. The children are
integrated with our full-day Montessori Lower Elementary class for lunch and afternoon
activities.

Your child will be met by our teacher for a 5-minute walk just down the hill. (GLMS is
located below Arlington Community Church, right across the street from the Kensington
library.)

Please call or email for more information, or for a tour!

www.growinglight.net / 510-527-1278 / glm...@gmail.com


Baynotes-Singing in the Summer: Music classes, not a camp
-------------------------------------------
Music is like magic to children. Children develop humor through songs, stretch memorizing
power, and awaken a love for poetry and imagery. Enhance your child’s love of music through
song and dance. Music classes help children explore the power of rhythm, melody, tonality and
beat while nurturing key physical, social and intellectual skills.

Music class goals:

Ages 3-5: Imitate melody and match pitch. Build a repertoire of well-loved children’s songs.
Learn to move and clap to the beat of the music.

Ages 6-8: Develop your singing voice. Express emerging musical knowledge through basic
musical notation. Imitate and learn multi-step dances.

Ages 9-12: Develop independent singing, as well as ensemble singing. Learn basic music
theory. Imitate and learn multi-step dances.

These classes are a musical learning experience that set the stage for future

school success and the transition into formal music lessons.

Scheduling and Pricing:

45 minute sessions

Ages 3-5

June 24 – July 19

Mon and Wed at 9:00 am

Tues and Fri at 9:00 am

Class Size: max 5

Cost: $89

Ages 6-8

June 24 – July 19

Mon and Wed at 10:00 am

Tues and Fri at 10:00 am

Class Size: max 5

Cost: $99

Ages 9-12

June 24 – July 19

Mon and Wed at 11:00 am

Tues and Fri at 11:00 am

Class Size: max 5

Cost: $109

Location:

1501 Walnut Street Berkeley, CA 94709

www.baynotes.com
Leslie Shappard plsti...@gmail.com


Kids In Motion: Summer Camp openings
-------------------------------------------
Kids In Motion, a state licensed child care, has openings for summer (June 17 - August 27).
Our program is open to all children ages 4 years 9 months to 11 years. Our hours are 7:30 AM
to 6:30 PM for summer and holidays. We offer drop-in, hourly ($15/hour), daily ($65/day), and
weekly ($235/week) rates. Subsidized child care is available.
Some of our activities: bicycles & scooters, capture the flag, soccer, rc cars, legos, board
games, swimming, arts & crafts, baking, playing in the creek, and field trips.
We are located in the Cafeteria at John Muir Elementary School (2955 Claremont Avenue,
Berkeley).
For more information visit our website at www.kidsinmo.com or call us at 510-549-9247.
gi...@kidsinmo.com
License: 010211875


Music Camp Rocks-We Came to Play!: Summer Sessions!
-------------------------------------------
Music Camp Rocks

John Mader, drummer for Wicked and The Lion King King, and Dustin Smurthwaite, credentialed
teacher and artist featured on VH1, bring their band camp, Music Camp Rocks, to Freelove
Music School in Oakland on Piedmont Avenue. Sign up for week long summer day camps or 4 week
performance camps. Year round programs offered.
Be in a Band!
Choose your favorite songs to play! Perform in front of an audience!
All styles.
All skill levels.

John has been listed and reviewed in BPN
“While this guy is in the Lakeshore area of Oakland and not Berkeley, I am so impressed with
him I thought I should give you his name anyway: John Mader (763-2320). He has taught my son
and several other children I know. He is very good, plays professionally, deals with children
well, and is very dedicated.”
Find us on Yelp
Link: http://www.yelp.com/biz/music-camp-rocks-pleasanton#query:music%20camp %20rocks
“I can't say enough incredible things about this program. The staff are unbelievably
attentive and dedicated to their students, flexible with their time, and strive to achieve
their best each and every session. My son absolutely LOVES this program and last night he
performed at Handle's. We had a fun and awesome time and can't wait to do it again. John
really listened to our needs and has put a lot of his own personal resources into the program
to make the kids experience perfect. And Dustin did an amazing job working with my son, even
taking personal time out of his schedule to help his band. All the staff have put their
hearts into this program and it shows. I love this program and recommend it to anyone who
loves music!”
What more parents are saying:
“Music Camp Rocks has had more of a impact on my son that any other program he has
participated in.” - Kathy
“My son had such a great time, he wants to take every course.” Joanne “What an incredible
experience” - Linda
website www.musiccamprocks.com
krista....@gmail.com



==========================================================
Info Sessions / Open Houses
==========================================================

Monte Tavor Spanish Immersion
-------------------------------------------
Monte Tavor is a Spanish Immersion program for infants, toddlers and preschoolers. Our major
emphasis is language development for the bilingual and multilingual child. The program is
based on children's interest, teachers' observations, theoretical implications with emergent
themes as well as our developmental approach on sensorial activities and the equilibrium.

Children acquire language and become bilingual thru music, songs, dance, dramatic play, free
choice, reading, writing, and arts using natural ingredients. Children are exposed to
science on animal habitats and science experiments/discoveries for expanding conceptual
thinking and the emotional, social, physical and cognitive development.

The program was founded in 1994, by a woman from Nicaragua and her family. From the start
their belief in a bilingual education for young children was important in creating a program
for families in diverse cultural groups and have children become fluent in Spanish to prepare
them for a much more advanced education.

Monte Tavor”s Open House Event will be on July 13, 2013, at 10:00 am. RSVP prior. For
receiving an e-mail packet, send an e-mail to hmont...@aol.com. You can also check
reviews on Monte Tavor at www.savvysource.com, Yelp, and berkeleyparentsnetwork. or call
(510) 531-3328 or Admissions contact Yeira at (510) 967-1894. The location is 3520 Laguna
Avenue Oakland, CA 94602.
Yeira Howell yei...@aol.com
License: 013416271



==========================================================
Other
==========================================================

Corrected Information -- The School on the Hill
-------------------------------------------
The School On The Hill:
website www.tsoth.org
email ri...@richardsugerman.com or ri...@tsoth.org





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