Nurturing Growth: Exploring the Olive Tree Early Learning Academy Curriculum
Olive Tree Early Learning Academy stands out as a unique place where children as young as six weeks old are nurtured in a caring environment, surrounded by woods and a pond. Founded by Daniel Watson, a Knox County Board of Education member, and his wife, Mandy, the academy is dedicated to helping toddlers and young children thrive, especially those who may have experienced trauma.
A Foundation for Future Success
Daniel Watson's experience on the Knox County School Board since 2020, has highlighted the critical importance of equipping students with strong reading skills by the time they reach fourth grade. He believes that this learning process must begin in preschool. The Olive Tree Early Learning Academy aims to provide that vital foundation. The center is located at 5311 McKamey Road, and children ages 6 weeks to 5 years old can enroll. The center costs between $215 to $300 a week, which includes breakfast, lunch and snacks. Various discounts are available based on family income.
Rooted in Service and Community
The Watsons are deeply committed to serving families, and Olive Tree is an extension of their work at Restoration House, a non-profit providing single parents with transitional housing and other resources. Restoration House is a "whole neighborhood," Mandy said of the wrap-around care. Starting an early childhood center seemed like the obvious next step, she added. Working with parents showed the couple the need to invest in young minds, too.
Restoration House gained national recognition when "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" built a home for Daniel and Mandy, along with two duplexes for Restoration House mothers, in 2012. Since its inception in 2007, the "village" has expanded its capacity, housing, and mentorship programs.
A Child-Centered Approach
What sets Olive Tree Early Learning Academy apart is its focus on individual cues from children, tailoring the curriculum to each student's unique learning style. The academy is licensed to serve over 80 children. The physical space reflects that mission. Classroom learning is based on activities, following the lead and pace of the students. The center's meals are prepared in-house every day.
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The families served at the learning center mostly come from underserved communities ‒ mainly "mother-led" families and refugees, Daniel said. From the teachers to the administrators, each staffer knows every child and provides access to holistic care. For kids who have experienced trauma, it's especially important that they're surrounded by familiar faces to feel safe, Daniel said.
Curriculum Framework: Building Blocks for Development
Olive Tree Academy's curriculum framework is aligned with research-based guidelines for preschool enrichment and education, providing a solid foundation for young children.
The preschool foundations include:
Social-Emotional Development
The curriculum prioritizes the development of positive relationships, self-awareness, self-regulation, and responsible decision-making skills.
Language and Literacy Development
A language-rich environment fosters vocabulary development, phonological awareness, comprehension, and early writing skills.
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Mathematical Thinking
Hands-on experiences introduce math concepts, promoting counting, sorting, comparing, and problem-solving skills.
Scientific Exploration
Children's natural curiosity is encouraged through opportunities to explore, observe, ask questions, and make predictions about the world.
Creative Expression
Art, music, drama, and movement activities foster creativity and self-expression.
Physical Development
Gross and fine motor skills, coordination, balance, and healthy habits are promoted.
The curriculum framework is designed to be developmentally appropriate and flexible, adapting to the needs and interests of each child. A structured play-based approach promotes active engagement, exploration, and discovery.
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Little Olive Tree Preschool: A Blend of Center-Based and Small Group Care
Little Olive Tree Preschool is a state-certified program for children aged twelve months to five years. Its signature preschool program combines the social and educational benefits of a center with the distinctiveness and flexibility of small group care. Creativity and inventiveness are encouraged through play-based learning. Children learn to problem-solve, take risks through exploration, and understand emotions and empathy for others. Daily lessons are taught in both English and Spanish, exposing students to a broad vocabulary through songs, books, circle time, and language games. Language teachers are fluent in both Spanish and English.
Additionally, all children benefit from an inclusive education where students with and without disabilities learn together. The toddler, preschool, and pre-k programs are three independent classrooms, each developing weekly theme-based lessons using structured routines, natural learning, and play. Art, music and dance, yoga, pre-literacy, pre-math, and Spanish language are integrated into the educational environment.
Little Olive Tree Preschool operates year-round, Monday through Friday, from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. It is licensed by the Child Care Division for 30 children aged 12 months through 5 years. The CCD establishes regulations governing the facility, staff, record keeping, nutrition, and health and safety procedures.
Olive Tree Youth: Shaping Well-Rounded Individuals
Olive Tree Youth offers a dynamic and enriching program designed to shape well-rounded individuals. From engaging games and sports to valuable after-school support, social skills lessons, and community service opportunities, the program provides a comprehensive array of activities. The meticulously crafted programs in Health Awareness, Etiquette, Creative Arts, and Financial Awareness are essential pillars that nurture personal growth and development. The summer program provides a platform for relaxation and fosters the building of enduring friendships and character development.
Olive Tree Youth collaborates closely with parents, teachers, and school administrators to offer the perfect blend of sports, arts, and enrichment activities. The flexibility of choosing the number of days per week is essential for family convenience, ensuring that the program meets individual needs.
After School Program
The after school program provides a well-rounded educational experience that caters to academic, physical, and social development needs. By participating in project-based activities, completing homework assignments, and engaging in physical exercise daily, children thrive in an enriching environment.
Summer Program
The summer program provides children with the opportunity to engage in various educational and recreational activities, from science experiments and arts and crafts to outdoor adventures and community service projects. Children form bonds and embrace new challenges throughout the summer.
Testimonials: A Community of Care
Parents express immense satisfaction with Olive Tree Early Learning Academy. They appreciate the caring teachers and directors, the peace of mind they feel when dropping off their children, and the genuine passion for teaching demonstrated by the staff. The academy is praised for not only focusing on fundamental learning but also on helping children handle emotions and become better individuals. Parents also appreciate the smooth transition provided for first-time daycare experiences and the sense of community built within the school, involving families in their children's education.
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