Building on the success of its kindergarten and preschool for 4-year-olds, the former of which is celebrating its fifth anniversary this year, Middle Valley Academy is starting a preschool program for 3-year-olds starting fall.
The private school, located on the campus of Middle Valley Baptist Church, is registered with Hamilton County Schools, meaning students in Middle Valley Academy's pre-K and kindergarten programs can move directly into kindergarten or first grade at public schools in Hamilton County, said academy Director Candice Sneed. The school also follows the Hamilton County Schools schedule.
"We just love what we're able to offer and wanted to be able to do more," said Sneed, as to why the school is adding the program for 3-year-olds. "We're just seeing great results and the parents love the program."
She said Middle Valley Academy is unique in its half-day format, small class sizes and phonics-based curriculum.
All of the school's programs - the pre-K, kindergarten and a Mother's Day Out program for kids ages 6 months to 3 years - run from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Parents can choose from two-, three-, four- and five-day options, depending on the program and child's age.
The teacher-student ratio is 8:1 for pre-K and 10:1 for kindergarten, said Sneed.
The biblically based programs use the Abeka curriculum, which aligns with state education standards and is based on phonics, she said. Students are constantly changing activities throughout the day, with each limited to a 15- to 30-minute time period, she added.
Applications are currently being accepted for all programs and are available at the school or on its website. While there's no deadline to register, space is limited due to the small class sizes so Sneed recommends applying soon.
Middle Valley Academy is at 7901 Middle Valley Road and can be reached at 842-1911, ext. 6, or academy@mvonline.org. Visit the school's website at middlevalleyacademy.org.
Email Emily Crisman at ecrisman@timesfreepress.com