Academics

Our Vision and Values

The Family Center provides a unique, nurturing, and educational early childhood  experience. The facility partners with parents to help ensure that children develop a foundation for future success and a lifelong love of learning. 
 

Our Philosophy

It is the philosophy of the Highlands School Family Center that children be encouraged to learn and to grow by providing a foundation of developmentally appropriate experiences where all children can succeed in a safe and nurturing environment.
 
We believe that each child is a unique individual and that all children can learn. We believe children learn best through meaningful play. Our play-based, child-centered curriculum reflects the integration of physical, cognitive, social, emotional, language, self-help, and aesthetic areas for the total development of the child. Meaningful play encourages curiosity, discovery, and problem-solving which allows individual growth and the development of a positive self-image.
 
We recognize that parents are the child’s first teachers. Children learn best when parents are involved in their educational program. The primary bridge between home and school is the involvement of family and community.

Our Curriculum

Our goal is to create an environment that consistently promotes learning and development. The Pinnacle curriculum is a research-based early childhood curriculum, designed with both teachers and students in mind:
  • Based on the works of Piaget, Gardner, and Erikson
  • Developmentally appropriate activities that adhere to early childhood education industry standards
  • Clearly stated learning objectives to help facilitate learning in all domains
  • Flexible programming to accommodate varied learning styles
  • Carefully selected themes that capture children’s interest
  • Long-range goals linked to Key Standards
  • Provides suggestions to enrich childhood developmental milestones based on research
  • Interactive activities that help children develop a love for learning while they are growing, playing, and having fun

Our Goals for the Preschool Child

  1. To develop a positive self-esteem.
  2. To develop awareness of, and sensitivity to others.
  3. To become a responsible person to self and others.
  4. To develop social skills.
  5. To develop verbal skills with peers and adults.
  6. To develop cognitive skills.
  7. To learn to make choices.
  8. To share.
  9. To listen and follow directions.
  10. To develop a sense of wonder and curiosity.
Highlands School, 4901 Old Leeds Road, Birmingham, AL 35213, (205) 956-9731
Highlands School's 'whole child' approach to education and commitment to academic excellence, creative expression, and leadership development prepare and motivate students in grades 4k through 8 to make a positive difference in an ever-changing world. Located in Birmingham, Alabama, Highlands School holds dual accrediation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) and the Southern Associations of Independent Schools (SAIS).

For more information, visit www.highlandsschool.org.