Philosophy

Our philosophy is based on the respect of children as competent and capable individuals.

We offer a unique play-based learning experience for your child. 
Play-based, child-led education supports social and emotional development, strengthens language and numeracy skills, and inspires a life-long love of learning.

At Monarch, teachers and children work together through challenges that our littles encounter during the school day.
We encourage children to negotiate space, time, and materials via peer-to-peer communication when they are entering play and engaging in new experiences.

Outdoor Environment

As an outdoor nature school, Monarch focuses heavily on the natural environment as the third teacher. 
The natural landscape of the yard gives children a unique experience and connection with nature.

At Monarch, children might engage in gardening, tree climbing, fruit and vegetable harvesting, nature-inspired arts and crafts, science experiments, cooking up creations in our Mud Kitchens, and more.
Children are encouraged to get messy, take risks, and find adventure hidden within the natural world around them!

Daily Communication

We keep our parents up to date through a parent communication app called ClassDojo where teachers share daily pictures and updates from the school day!
ClassDojo also has a messaging platform where you can message your childs teacher or any of the Monarch staff at any time.

Parent Testimonials

The growth that we have observed in our child since attending Monarch as a Chrysalis and now a Butterfly has been extraordinary. She has made meaningful friendships and looks forward to going to school everyday. Her teacher, Ms. Karen, truly sees and knows each and every one of her students. Ms. Karen has made every effort to nurture our daughter’s love for the outdoors and create hands-on learning experiences that fosters growth and development in her fine motor, gross motor, and and social-emotional skills. Because of Monarch’s nurturing environment and the love and thoughtfulness that goes into their day-to-day interactions with my child, she has flourished into a well-rounded, creative, and confident individual who is ready to enter kindergarten. 
- Tara, Monarch Parent 2023 - 2025

Our family feels so lucky to be part of the Monarch community. We have two kids at the preschool a Butterfly and a Caterpillar and it’s been so special to see them growing and thriving side by side in different classes. Our oldest has really come out of her shell, gaining confidence and building real friendships, while our youngest is finding his place, learning independence, and starting to gain a sense of autonomy over his own body. We’re so proud of our little guy and how much he’s grown in just his first year of school.
- Myriha, Monarch Parent 2022 - 2025

What makes Monarch even more special is the incredible support from the teachers. They aren’t just nurturing; they’re genuinely invested in the well-being of both the children and their families. Miss Karen, in particular, has been such a guiding light for our family. There have been times when I’ve second-guessed myself as a parent, and being able to lean on her for guidance has been such a gift. She truly cares, and her compassion and knowledge of children have helped me find real solutions when I needed them most. I’m so thankful for her and all she has shared with us. Monarch is truly a hidden gem, and I’m so grateful to be part of this community.
- Caterpillar Parent 2024 - 2025

Monarch has been such a huge part of my child’s learning journey as well as our parenting journey! We have learned so much through how the school treats children as capable individuals and invites them to be creative with open ended play. Monarch has impacted the way we do things in our house as a family and as parents and I am so grateful to have found this wonderful school.
- Caterpillar Parent 2024 - 2025

We moved from Germany to California at the beginning of 2024. We were worried our daughter would have trouble adjusting, as she didn't speak English. But the teachers were so dedicated and welcoming from the very beginning. Isabelle now speaks fluent English and developed such a strong character! Our story shows that you don't need a classroom or a desk to develop so positively.

I'm sure this rapid development, both linguistically and personally, was only possible because of this uniquely personal and engaging atmosphere! Her teacher, Ms. Karen, knows every child in her class as if they were her own. I've never experienced anything like it! This place is so precious for every child!
- Selina, Monarch Parent 2023 - 2025