An exceptional school influenced by Maria Montessori,
Reggio Emilia and Waldorf Steiner
The Atelier School
Preschool & Primary
Preschool
Kindergarten
First Grade
Second Grade
Beginning Preschool
At The Atelier School, our Beginning Preschool program is a gentle and nurturing introduction to the world of learning. Designed for our youngest explorers, this program fosters a sense of wonder, security, and independence through play-based experiences that support healthy development. In our thoughtfully designed environment, children engage in sensory play, imaginative storytelling, movement, and hands-on activities that encourage fine and gross motor skills. Our spacious, light-filled classrooms provide a calm and inviting atmosphere, while our outdoor spaces allow for unstructured play, fostering curiosity and a deep connection with nature. Through a blend of Montessori, Reggio, and Waldorf-inspired practices, we honor each child’s unique rhythm, encouraging social-emotional growth, language development, and self-expression through art, music, and movement.
Preschool Program
Our Preschool program builds upon the foundation of early childhood wonder, supporting children as they grow in confidence, independence, and collaboration. This program encourages exploration through open-ended play, creative expression, and meaningful, hands-on experiences that spark curiosity and a love for learning. Our classrooms, filled with natural light and thoughtfully curated materials, provide a warm and engaging space for developing early literacy, numeracy, problem-solving, and social-emotional skills. Outdoors, children immerse themselves in nature—tending to gardens, engaging in imaginative play, and exploring our sensory-rich environment. Inspired by Montessori, Reggio, and Waldorf philosophies, our teachers guide children through a rhythm that balances free play with structured activities, movement with stillness, and self-direction with gentle guidance. The Preschool program at The Atelier School nurtures the whole child, cultivating a strong foundation for lifelong learning.
Pre-Kindergarten
The Atelier School’s Pre-Kindergarten program provides a nurturing bridge between early childhood and the more structured learning of the primary years. Rooted in Montessori, Reggio, and Waldorf philosophies, our Pre-K environment encourages hands-on discovery, imaginative play, and meaningful connections. Social-emotional growth is at the heart of our program, as children learn to navigate friendships, express their emotions, and develop empathy through storytelling, group activities, and collaborative projects. Academically, we introduce foundational literacy and numeracy in an organic, engaging way—through rich language experiences, hands-on math explorations, and nature-based learning. In our light-filled classrooms and expansive outdoor spaces, children develop confidence, independence, and a love for learning as they prepare for the next step in their educational journey.
Transitional Kindergarten
Our Transitional Kindergarten program is designed for children who are ready for a more structured learning experience but would benefit from a gentle, developmentally aligned approach before entering primary grades. This program nurtures both the heart and the mind, balancing academic enrichment with deep social-emotional learning. Through a blend of open-ended exploration and guided instruction, children build strong foundations in early literacy, writing, mathematics, and problem-solving. Daily rhythms include movement, storytelling, nature immersion, and project-based learning to strengthen curiosity and critical thinking. Emotional intelligence is cultivated through mindfulness practices, conflict resolution strategies, and opportunities for meaningful peer interactions. Our TK students leave this program with confidence, resilience, and the skills needed to transition into their next stage of learning with enthusiasm and joy.
Kindergarten
Kindergarten at The Atelier School is a time of wonder, exploration, and deepening connections. Rooted in our Montessori, Reggio, and Waldorf-inspired approach, this program honors the developmental needs of young learners by blending structured academic learning with rich, imaginative experiences.
Our mornings begin with rhythmic movement and storytelling, setting a foundation for literacy and numeracy in a way that is engaging and meaningful. Early reading and writing skills emerge naturally through phonetic play, nature journaling, and hands-on literacy experiences, while mathematics comes to life through real-world applications, manipulatives, and pattern recognition.
Beyond academics, we nurture the whole child by fostering self-confidence, independence, and social-emotional growth. Through collaborative projects, meaningful responsibilities, and conflict resolution practices, children learn empathy, problem-solving, and communication skills that will serve them for life.
Much of our day is spent outdoors—gardening, building, climbing, and engaging in free play—allowing children to develop resilience, creativity, and a deep connection to the natural world. With a balance of structure and freedom, our Kindergarteners develop a love for learning, a strong sense of self, and the readiness to step confidently into their next stage of education.
First & Second Grade
Our combined First and Second Grade class is a dynamic, multi-age learning environment where children deepen their academic foundations while continuing to embrace the joy and magic of childhood. Grounded in our Montessori, Reggio, and Waldorf-inspired philosophy, this program nurtures intellectual curiosity, creativity, and a deep connection to the world around them.
As young writers and storytellers, students refine their ability to express thoughts, ideas, and emotions through rich language experiences, journaling, and poetry. Math becomes increasingly complex and engaging, with hands-on exploration of number sense, problem-solving, and foundational concepts that build confidence and fluency. Science and nature studies spark curiosity, encouraging students to observe, question, and experiment.
Our students bring stories to life through our beloved Spring Play, where they experience the joy of performance, teamwork, and creative expression. Music, handwork, and artistic endeavors remain central to their daily rhythm, allowing them to cultivate both fine motor skills and imagination.
Even as academic learning deepens, unstructured play remains essential. We cherish and protect childhood, recognizing that free exploration, outdoor adventures, and social-emotional growth are just as important as academics. In this nurturing and inspiring environment, children develop resilience, confidence, and a love for learning that will carry them forward in life.
Three Approaches
Combining Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and Waldorf inspired education creates a unique learning environment that fosters holistic development. Montessori emphasizes self-directed learning and independence, empowering children to explore their interests. Reggio Emilia promotes creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking through project-based learning and the arts. Waldorf focuses on imagination, hands-on experiences, and nurturing the whole child. By integrating these approaches, children benefit from a balanced education that cultivates intellectual, emotional, social, and physical growth, fostering a love for learning, resilience, creativity, and a strong sense of self.
Academics
Students are enriched academically through student-led learning, provocations of discovery, loose parts play, imaginary play, and traditional modalities of teacher-led lessons. Enrichment subjects include Language and Literacy, Practical Life, Social Studies, The Arts, Mathematics, Science, Social Emotional Learning, Grace and Courtesy, Foreign Language, Special Interest Studies, and Physical Education. The details and specifics of the curriculum for each class will be discussed at your private tour. Students will bring home weekly folders representing the material they are practicing and learning.
Play
Play is serious business when it comes to a child’s health and development. Learning is best fueled by tapping into a child’s natural urge to play. As they actively engage with and joyfully discover their world, children gain 21st-century skills that increasingly call for teamwork and innovation. Play also improves the cognitive, physical, social, and emotional well-being of children and young people. Through play, our students learn not only about their world but about themselves. Students at the Atelier School spend a good portion of their day playing in their atelier and playing outdoors. As the Norwegians say - “There is no bad weather, only bad clothes.” We will play outdoors every day, so be sure your student is equipped.
Students of the Atelier School love their Loose Parts Play. It is a highly beneficial approach that promotes children's learning and development in various ways. Loose Parts Play encourages children to use their imagination and creativity, fostering problem-solving skills and critical thinking by providing an assortment of open-ended materials such as sticks, stones, fabric scraps, and blocks. It allows them to explore and experiment with different materials, textures, shapes, and sizes, enhancing sensory experiences and developing fine motor skills. Children learn about spatial relationships, patterns, and basic mathematical concepts by manipulating and arranging loose parts. Additionally, Loose Parts Play encourages collaboration, communication, and social skills as children engage in cooperative play, negotiate roles, and share ideas. It also supports emotional development by offering a non-prescriptive and flexible play experience, allowing children to express and regulate their emotions. Overall, Loose Parts Play empowers children to become active, curious, and self-directed learners, fostering their holistic development across cognitive, physical, social, and emotional domains.
Loose Parts Learning
Art
Engaging young children in a combination of open-ended process art, art history, and directed art lessons offers numerous benefits. Open-ended process art encourages creativity, imagination, and self-expression, allowing children to explore materials and ideas freely, fostering their individuality and problem-solving skills. Art history exposes children to diverse artistic styles, cultures, and techniques, nurturing an appreciation for art and fostering cultural understanding. Directed art lessons provide structured guidance, teaching specific techniques and skills, enhancing fine motor skills, spatial awareness, and attention to detail. By incorporating all three approaches, children develop a well-rounded artistic foundation.
Music
Our enriching music program is designed to ignite a lifelong love for music while fostering their holistic development. Through singing activities, children explore different vocal techniques, develop rhythm and pitch awareness, and build confidence in their musical abilities. They are exposed to a diverse repertoire of new songs, expanding their musical vocabulary and cultural understanding. Introducing basic music theory concepts, such as note values and dynamics, helps them grasp fundamental musical elements and lays a foundation for future learning. Additionally, incorporating music and movement activities allows children to express themselves creatively, develop coordination, and enhance spatial awareness. This comprehensive program nurtures their musical skills, stimulates cognitive and linguistic development, and promotes social interaction and self-expression in a joyful and stimulating environment.
Drama
Teaching musical theater to children offers a multitude of benefits. Through dramatic play and performance, children develop essential communication and interpersonal skills, enhancing their self-confidence and ability to express themselves effectively. Role-playing and character exploration foster empathy, emotional intelligence, and a deeper understanding of diverse perspectives. Participating in musical theater cultivates teamwork, collaboration, and discipline as children work together to create a cohesive spring performance. Drama and music also improve language development, memory skills, and spatial awareness. Our Musical Theater program empowers our students to discover and develop their unique talents while instilling lifelong skills and a lifelong appreciation for the performing arts.
Atelier School
2025 - 2026 Admissions
-
Annual Registration Fee:
Preschool $200
Kindergarten $400
First Grade $400
Second Grade $400
Beginning Preschool - 2-3 years of age (two years by September 1st)
Preschool - 3-4 years of age (three years by September 1st)
Pre-K and TK - 4-5 years of age (four years by September 1st)
Kindergarten - 5 years by September 1st
Beginning Preschool
5 Day Program - $1500
3 Day Program - $1050
2 Day Program - $700
Preschool
5 Day Program - $1400
3 Day Program - $1000
2 Day Program - $650
Pre-K and TK
5 Day Program - $1300
3 Day Program - $900
2 Day Program - $600
Kindergarten through Grade Two
Annual Tuition $10,000
Extended Day $1,000
Monthly Installment for Program Only - $1000
Monthly Installment for Program with Extended Day - $1100
FAQs
What are the school hours?
7:00 am - 5:30 pm
Please refer to the Yearly School Calendar for school closure dates and details regarding Special Event Days.
What type of parent involvement occurs at the Atelier School?
The Atelier School welcomes parents to attend and participate in many events throughout the year. These events include Family Meet and Greet, Back to School Night, Winter Holiday Program, Annual Art Expo, and the Discovery Fair. Parents also participate in field trips.
Is The Atelier School a Charter School?
No, The Atelier School is a private preschool and primary school.
Are lunch and snacks provided?
Lunch is provided for the preschool programs on Mondays and Fridays. A nutritious morning and afternoon snack is provided daily in the preschool programs. Elementary students bring their lunch daily. A daily morning snack is provided for elementary students.
Do students wear uniforms?
Yes, students wear uniforms Monday through Friday. We do have several Free Dress days as well.
Do students say the Pledge of Allegiance?
Yes, students say the Pledge of Allegiance every day and learn several patriotic songs.
What is the average teacher-to-student ratio?
The average teacher-to-student ratio is one to eight in beginning preschool and one to twelve as they move into preschool. In the elementary classrooms, class sizes range from 18-24 students. All teachers have support guides that foster learning at every grade level. In addition, we have specialty teachers that enrich their learning experiences in music and art.
Will students go on field trips?
Yes, field trips offer a hands-on and interactive approach, allowing our students to engage with their environment and make meaningful connections to what they have been learning in the classroom.
How are birthdays celebrated at school?
Birthday celebrations are a warm and enchanting event at the Atelier School that focuses on forging a meaningful and memorable experience for your child. The emphasis is on creating a nurturing environment where the child is honored and surrounded by heartfelt wishes, stories, and blessings shared by their teacher and friends. The celebration also includes a traditional birthday story and candle-lighting ring that students encircle in a traditional ceremony. This is a tradition everyone looks forward to. If your child has a summer birthday, we celebrate their birthday in June.
"At The Atelier School, we honor childhood, nurture curiosity, and embrace learning as a journey of wonder. My greatest hope is that each child leaves school every day feeling loved, confident, and inspired by the world around them." — Tina Naber
Tina Naber ~ Founder, The Atelier School
Tina Naber completed her undergraduate degree in Heidelberg, Germany—home of the first kindergarten. While living in Germany, she volunteered in a German kindergarten, where her love of teaching bloomed. With 19 years of experience teaching kindergarten and many years as the administrator of a private preparatory elementary school in Temecula, Tina’s passion for education and leadership is unmatched. She believes in a threefold approach—engaging the head, heart, and hands—where thinking, feeling, and doing come together to create a meaningful and holistic learning experience.