About the school

The Academy of North Palm Beach provides full-time and part-time programs for children age two through four in an environment that is “nurturing, safe, and stimulating yet calm.” Other programs offered include VPK, after-care and summer programs for elementary-aged children. The center was founded in 2007 and is open from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm. The Academy of North Palm Beach prides itself on building and maintaining a positive reputation within the community. Parents comment that it is “truly a wonderful school where they know each child, care about each child, and give personal help to each child that needs it.”

Educational philosophy and administration

The Academy of North Palm Beach uses the Creative Curriculum, which the curriculum’s publisher describes as a “comprehensive, research-based curriculum that promotes exploration and discovery as a way of learning, enabling children to develop confidence, creativity, and lifelong critical thinking skills.” Parents remark that the academy provides more than a “one-size-fits-all education,” and that “they really care about what's best for each individual.” The academy also offers extracurricular activities that include science club, reading club, math club, martial arts, yoga, cooking, and gardening. The environment includes bright and spacious areas supplied with age-appropriate toys and equipment, as well as a large outdoor play area for running and bike-riding. Parents have the opportunity to participate in activities by assisting in the classroom once or twice a month. Parents describe director April Chapman as “amazing,” and the teachers as “knowing each child, caring about each child, and giving personal help to each child.” The academy’s teachers model important behavioral lessons, such as how to react appropriately to situations, and how to best convey internal feelings. Staff members believe that, as caregivers, they play a critical role in children’s social and emotional development; the academy centers its entire program around this concept. Teachers and administrators strive to provide a warm environment where families feel comfortable, so they can establish trusting relationships with staff.