About
Founded in 2005, Villa Vista was created with a simple but powerful goal: to help children discover the beauty of different cultures and languages through joyful, hands-on learning. From the beginning, the school has been a place where curiosity is nurtured, diversity is celebrated, and young minds are encouraged to grow.
Why Language Learning Matters
At Villa Vista, we believe that early exposure to a second language is one of the greatest gifts you can give a child. During the early years, especially before age 12—the brain is uniquely wired to absorb language effortlessly. Introducing a second language during this “window of opportunity” not only strengthens cognitive development, but also builds a foundation for lifelong learning in both languages.
Young children learn best through play, exploration, and meaningful interaction. In a nurturing environment, language acquisition happens naturally, without pressure or memorization, just as they learned their first words.
Research shows that children who study a second language often perform better academically. They tend to score higher on verbal standardized tests, and show stronger skills in math, logic, and problem-solving. There’s also evidence that bilingual learners are more creative and adaptable when facing complex challenges.
We believe full immersion is the most effective approach to second-language proficiency. In our program, children learn all subjects in the target language, which becomes the medium—not the focus—of instruction. This method allows language to unfold organically, while supporting academic growth across the board.
Above all, we’re committed to creating a safe, joyful, and inclusive space where children feel supported by caring, knowledgeable educators. At Villa Vista, learning a new language is just the beginning—it’s a doorway to connection, confidence, and a wider world.
Our Mission
At Villa Vista Preschool, our mission is to nurture a bilingual learning community that prepares children to thrive in a diverse and interconnected world. Through a joyful, multi-sensory environment, we help young learners grow into well-rounded individuals across three key areas:
🌟 Academic Excellence
We believe in learning through play, creativity, and exploration.
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Children engage in hands-on activities that spark curiosity and build foundational skills.
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Spanish language immersion supports cognitive development and communication.
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Our curriculum fosters growth in reading, writing, math, and science.
💛 Emotional Intelligence
We help children develop confidence, empathy, and sound decision-making.
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Creativity and lifelong learning are celebrated.
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Positive choices are recognized and encouraged.
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Problem-solving and thoughtful judgment are woven into daily experiences.
🌍 Social Awareness
We cultivate a strong sense of community and global citizenship.
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Children learn the value of teamwork, integrity, and responsibility.
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Cultural respect and open communication are central to our approach.
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Community involvement helps children connect with the world around them.
Testimonial
“Taking my kids to Villa Vista was one of the best decisions I have ever made for my kids. The teachers are not just teachers, they are like family. They do so much more than just teach....the one on one time the kids receive is such a gift and they learn so much”
- Jamie
Nadherny
I asked Owen, " What do you want to do today?". He said, " Go to school and play with buddies." I told him not today, and he cried. I'm so happy he loves school so much. Thank you
Curriculum
Villa Vista uses a combination of developmental and integrated teaching techniques that address a variety of learning styles by incorporating communication, music, movement, reading and writing (appropriate to age). Teaching will be accomplished through both group and individual instruction. Group activities include circle time, music/dance, story-time, and snack. Individual learning opportunities are set-up to work with each student at their own pace and level in preparation for grade school. Villa Vista utilizes a literacy curriculum called Handwriting Without Tears®. The benefits are:
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Developmentally based.
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Inclusive – works for children of all abilities.
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Multi-sensory teaching aids and methods.
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Easy to teach and fun to learn.
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Excellent for both classroom and individual instruction.
To learn more about Handwriting Without Tears® go to www.hwtears.com
Villa Vista relies on visual supports to teach a second language. Pictures allow each child to:
- Effectively communicate wants, needs and emotions with a high degree of success
- Use the visual support system as a bridge to proficient communication in Spanish
- Amanda
Shafer
