Programs

“Education is a natural process carried out by the child and is not acquired by listening to words but by experiences in the environment.” Maria Montessori

Academics

Preschool Class (ages 3-6)

Our Pre-School Classroom is a nurturing, hands-on learning environment designed to foster independence, creativity, and a love for discovery in children ages 3 to 6. Rooted in a developmentally appropriate, play-based, and Montessori and Waldorf-inspired approach, our classroom provides structured freedom, allowing each child to explore at their own pace while building foundational academic, social, and emotional skills.

We focus on whole-child development, incorporating:

Practical Life Skills: Encouraging self-care, responsibility, and confidence through real-world tasks.
Sensorial Exploration: Engaging hands and minds through hands-on learning experiences.
Early Literacy & Numeracy: Building strong foundations in reading, writing, and mathematical thinking through engaging, child-led activities.
Creative & Expressive Arts: Providing opportunities for music, movement, storytelling, and imaginative play.
Social & Emotional Learning: Teaching kindness, empathy, and problem-solving through guided interactions and cooperative play.
Outdoor & Nature-Based Learning: Encouraging curiosity and physical development through outdoor play and exploration.

With small class sizes, individualized attention, and highly trained educators, we create a warm and inclusive atmosphere where children feel safe, valued, and empowered to learn at their own pace. Our goal is to prepare children not just for school, but for life, equipping them with the confidence, curiosity, and skills needed for lifelong success.

Lower Elementary (ages 5-8)

Our Lower Elementary Classroom is a dynamic and nurturing environment where children transition from early childhood exploration to deeper, more structured learning. Designed for students ages 5 to 8, this classroom blends Montessori and Waldford-inspired, hands-on learning with a rich academic foundation, fostering curiosity, independence, and critical thinking.

We emphasize:

Individualized Learning Paths: Encouraging self-paced academic growth while building confidence and resilience.
Integrated Literacy & Math: Strengthening reading, writing, and mathematical reasoning through interactive and real-world applications.
Inquiry-Based Science & Social Studies: Promoting discovery, problem-solving, and a love of learning through hands-on experiments and projects.
Social-Emotional Growth: Teaching conflict resolution, collaboration, and emotional intelligence to support healthy friendships and self-awareness.
Creative Expression: Incorporating music, art, movement, and storytelling to cultivate imagination and personal expression.
Practical Life & Executive Functioning Skills: Instilling responsibility, time management, and independent problem-solving through daily routines and activities.

Upper Elementary (ages 9-12)

Our Upper Elementary Classroom builds on the foundations of early education while fostering deeper critical thinking, independence, and leadership. Designed for students ages 9 to 12, this environment challenges learners to apply their knowledge, think analytically, and develop a strong sense of self and community.

Key components of the Upper Elementary experience include:

Advanced Literacy & Mathematics: Strengthening comprehension, writing, and problem-solving with real-world applications.
Project-Based & Experiential Learning: Encouraging research, collaboration, and creativity through interdisciplinary projects.
STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) & Inquiry-Based Exploration: Engaging students in science, engineering, and technology through hands-on discovery and experimentation.
Leadership & Personal Responsibility: Empowering students to take initiative in their learning and community through mentorship, service, and goal setting.
Social-Emotional & Executive Functioning Development: Teaching time management, organization, and self-advocacy to prepare for middle school and beyond.
Outdoor & Experiential Education: Extending learning beyond the classroom with field experiences, nature studies, and environmental stewardship.

Before & After School Extended Care

Our Extended Care Program is designed to support families who need early drop-off or late pick-up options while providing students with engaging activities, social interaction, and structured downtime in a nurturing environment.

Before School Care (6:30 AM – 8:00AM)

A calm, welcoming environment to ease into the school day.
Light morning activities such as reading, quiet play, mindfulness exercises, and breakfast time (if needed).
Supervision by trained staff to ensure a smooth transition into classroom learning.

After School Care (3:00PM – 6:00 PM)

Homework help & academic enrichment opportunities.
Engaging hands-on activities, crafts, and play-based learning.
Outdoor play and movement-based activities to unwind after a structured school day.
Therapeutic and sensory-friendly options for students needing a quieter, structured space.
Healthy snacks provided to keep students energized.

Seasonal Break Programs

At Anniston Academy, we recognize that school breaks are a great opportunity for continued learning, social connection, and fun experiences and that not all parents have the ability to find childcare during these times. Our break camps provide students with structured activities, hands-on exploration, and themed programming while ensuring a supportive and familiar environment when school is not in session.

Summer Program

A full-day program designed to keep students engaged, active, and learning throughout the summer months.

Themed weekly camps that explore topics such as STEM, arts & creativity, nature exploration, cooking, and adventure-based learning.
Outdoor activities, water play days, and hands-on science experiments.
Social-emotional learning opportunities to build friendships and teamwork.
Academic reinforcement to prevent summer learning loss while keeping sessions engaging and low-pressure.

Spring Break Program

A week-long, theme-based program filled with hands-on learning and creative exploration.

Outdoor adventures, arts & crafts, and STEM challenges.
Social-emotional and mindfulness activities to support relaxation and fun.
Project-based learning opportunities designed to encourage critical thinking and problem-solving.

Fall Break Program

A two-week camp focused on seasonal activities and enrichment.

Autumn-themed science and nature exploration (e.g., leaf studies, pumpkin experiments).
Creative arts, storytelling, and music celebrating the season.
Movement and sensory-friendly activities to keep students engaged and active.

Winter Break Program

A multi-week program designed to provide structured fun and holiday-themed enrichment.

Winter crafts, hands-on STEM projects, and seasonal storytelling.
Outdoor play (weather permitting) and sensory-friendly indoor activities.
Mindfulness, social skills development, and relaxation-focused activities to support emotional well-being during the holiday season.