On October 5, residents of Presbyterian Village North (PVN) were treated to an exciting presentation by the Bezos Academy team in the McGowan Auditorium. The event aimed to shed light on the Montessori-inspired learning approach, the upcoming opening of Bezos Academy North Dallas on November 7 and the volunteer opportunities awaiting PVN residents. Led by Sejal Dev, a Montessori Mentor and Curriculum Specialist for Bezos Academy, the presentation provided insights into the Montessori educational method while offering a glimpse into the unique Bezos Academy approach.
A Montessori-Inspired Learning Experience
During the presentation, Sejal covered four main aspects of Montessori learning, emphasizing practical life, sensorial, math and language development. The Montessori educational method places a strong emphasis on allowing children to explore and learn at their own pace, fostering independence, critical thinking and a love for learning.
One distinctive feature of Bezos Academy North Dallas is its three-hour work cycles, allowing children to delve deep into their activities and interests. This approach promotes concentration, self-discipline and a sense of accomplishment in young learners.
Community Integration and Volunteer Opportunities
Kanetria Doolin, the Head of School for Bezos Academy North Dallas, engaged in further explanation as well as a Q&A session, offering valuable insights into the integration of Bezos Academy into the PVN community. She highlighted various volunteer opportunities for residents to get involved, emphasizing the upcoming “trunk or treat” event on October 21, where residents can read with children, engage in arts and crafts, decorate car trunks and hand out candy. Ongoing opportunities include assisting with classroom materials, assembling items and even becoming a mystery reader, enabling residents to actively participate in the educational journey of young minds.
A Unique Partnership
What makes Bezos Academy North Dallas truly special is that it is the second Bezos Academy to be located on the site of a senior living community in the United States. This innovative partnership brings generations together, fostering a sense of community and shared learning.
The academy is set to have four classrooms, with three classrooms opening this year and the fourth scheduled for next year. Each classroom is equipped with one Lead Guide and two Assistants, ensuring a low student-to-teacher ratio to provide personalized attention and support for each child.
Additionally, Bezos Academy is committed to being a part of the PVN community for at least 10 years, with the option to renew at that time, providing stability and continuity in early childhood education.
Convenient Schedule and Nutritious Meals
Bezos Academy North Dallas schedule is as follows: Monday-Thursday, 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m., and Fridays from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. and to ease the burden of parents, three meals a day will be provided for each child by Creative Cuisine, a local vendor contracted through Bezos Academy. Meals are served family-style, except for dinner, which is packed as to-go bento boxes, ensuring that parents have one less thing to worry about at the end of their day.
Enroll and Get Involved
Bezos Academy North Dallas caters to children between the ages of 3 and 5 years old, offering them a nurturing and stimulating learning environment. Applications are still being accepted, and interested families can click here to apply.
In summary, Bezos Academy North Dallas represents a significant milestone in the integration of Montessori-inspired learning within the PVN community and Private tours of the classrooms will be provided for PVN residents the weeks of October 9 and 16, to provide a preview of the Academy before it opens to the public. Interested residents should register for the tour of their choice via the Activity cube on Cubigo.
With its unique approach, commitment to education and opportunities for community involvement, it is poised to make a lasting impact on the lives of both children and senior residents. To learn more and apply, visit Bezos Academy today and be part of this exciting educational journey.
