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January 2023 by Shelley Tokish
The Highlander School, the teachers and director Rukia, are beyond supportive and intentional. It is so much more than a school, it’s a community where my daughter is continually learning about the world, nature, community, herself, and her place in the world. We love that the children are encouraged to experience the world as it is (including when it’s raining). It is a place where the children are encouraged to think about themselves as a part of a broader framework and show empathy and compassion to each other. As a parent I feel engaged in the development of the school and what my child is learning and doing. I could go on and on about how wonderful The Highlander School is and how fortunate we are to be a part of it.
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January 2023 by Leah Chan
Both of our kids have attended the Highlander School and thrived. Rukia Rogers is a truly a visionary and community leader. She and her group of talented educators teach me every day how to be a better parent. They have created the most magical place where kids are respected and nurtured. In addition, the building and play ground were thoughtfully designed to help foster a connection with nature and child-directed play.
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January 2023 by Deborah Curtis
I have been to early childhood programs all over North America, NZ, Australia and Italy, after spending extended time in the Highlander School as a consultant and a visitor, I believe it is one of the most remarkable places for young children and their families, of all I have visited. The environments are stunningly beautiful, both indoors and outdoors. Children and adults are nourished through a strong sense of community, and engage together in meaningful experiences that enhance everyone's learning. The staff are caring, responsive and reflective educators and provide a rich curriculum that deeply involves children in learning. The director leads the school with an inspiring vision for social justice and anti-bias education. I have featured this program in many of the books I have written for other educators, as I believe the school's approach is a powerful model for the important work of early education.
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January 2023 by Dating Out Of Debt
The Highlander School is absolutely amazing! My daughter loved coming here! Her favorite part was being able to go out and play in the rain! Seeing her with her rain boots on, splashing in the puddles, enjoying the rain gave my husband and I such pleasure ?
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January 2023 by T. L
I worked there for a day and never came back, I'm sure the parents are not aware that their small kids even toddlers are playing outside in the wet and rain with no hats/hoods on....
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November 2017 by Jennifer Okhiria
Our daughter has been at The Highlander School for a few months and i knew this was the place for her when she wouldn't cling to me as i left to drop her off in the morning and she would sometimes cry when it was time to go. The teachers strive to really learn each child as an individual and help them learn and grow as a community.
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November 2016 by Ann Gregory
My husband and I talk a lot about how lucky we were to find the Highlander School. Both of our children go there, and we could not be happier with the beautiful building and grounds, the loving and nurturing teachers, and the thoughtful curriculum that helps our children learn, develop, and grow into curious and empathetic souls. Most important, the kids love going to school every morning! The community of staff, kids, and parents truly feels like family. The Highlander School is a special place run by a true visionary, and we are grateful to be a part of it.
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November 2016 by Cay and tay
We are so happy we found The Highlander School. I was nervous to move our second child to a new place but wanted something closer to our home. I couldn't ask for a more loving environment for our daughter. The director cares so much for the children and the teachers are amazing. My child is allowed to learn through play. They have their own vegetable gardens, an amazing menu, unique birthday celebrations, and kids are shown how important it is to love and respect others. Our daughter will be starting kindergarten soon and we will miss everyone so much. I highly recommend The Highlander School for anyone that is looking for loving fun environment for their kids.
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November 2016 by Celeste Jean
The Highlander School has been an amazing experience for our family The school's commitment to helping each child meet their individual potential through deliberate and conscious activities is phenomenal. The focus on children's socio-emotional development as well as fostering their awareness of cultural and other diversity in their world has been such a positive experience for our family. I HIGHLY recommend this school to any parent who wants their child in a loving, educationally-stimulating, and child-centered (rather than skills-centered) environment. I wish our child could stay there forever.
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November 2016 by Courtney Roddenberry
My experience with The Highlander School is the worst experience I have had with any daycare/childcare provider. They have failed continuously to communicate and follow up and are completely disorganized. I have either gotten no answer, told I would get an answer later or given the wrong answer. Given that I want the best for my child, I couldn't confidently say that this school and administration would be able to fulfill that need. I believe their intention is good, but the school hasn't figured out a way to operate with the families they have, let alone anyone interested in joining their program.
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November 2016 by Christina Grange
When we heard about The Highlander School, then went for a visit, we both knew that THS was the place for our (at the time 11 month old). I was so excited! However, Atlanta is similar to a lot of major cities and there is often a wait-list for the best childcare options. THS was no exception and I admittedly felt anxious each month waiting to see if our daughter would finally get in. I even followed up a few times. Each time I contacted the director she informed me that I would be notified when a spot opened up. Period. In hindsight, I realize that there was no much more that she could say, but in that season I was really wanting my daughter to be in a space where she and her parents could feel 100% comfortable.When she finally did start at THS I knew that the wait had been worth it! The school leadership has several procedures in place to ensure that the transition to the THS community is a smooth one for all involved and we, as a family, benefited. Our daughter is now very well adjusted to the school and I am constantly pleasantly surprised to see how much she is growing in that community. I am thankful that the school overtly state's it's values is committed to transparency in decision-making. Most of all, I am thankful for how they nurture the unique spirit's of each child while also challenging them to be stronger, brighter, and more loving contributors to our society...they inspire me and model great options for my childrearing home practice. I sincerely appreciate it.Finally, I must say that in the time that we have been with THS I have been impressed with how much effort they put into communicating with families. I do not suggest that the school or leadership is perfect, but I see growth occurring in a manner that I respect and appreciate.
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November 2016 by Breanne Powers
My daughter has been at the highlander school for over 2 years now and I couldn't be any happier. It's hard to leave your child in the hands of anyone but these women have become family to us. I know she is in good hands.
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November 2015 by Aeslya Fuqua
My daughter has attended The Highlander School for over a year. All of the staff are incredibly welcoming and genuinely care for the children. My daughter's teachers track her milestones, have pointed out potential problem areas, and call to check on her when she's absent. The set up of the classrooms is perfect for learning through play, and activities are designed around the interests of the children. I cannot recommend this school enough.
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November 2015 by Jill Clark
I love the Highlander School. And I'm so proud that my daughter gets the opportunity to play, learn and engage in all the innovative activities that go on everyday at school. The educators are forward-thinkers, genuine and kind. The facility is remarkable and feels more like a home. I love how the director, Rukia, emphasizes how important the environment and the community are to the school and how the educators integrate these aspects into everyday learning experiences. I really can't say enough about it... The Highlander School is truly an amazing place.
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November 2015 by Nick Kaye
My son has attended the Highlander School since it opened, and both my wife and I are extremely grateful for that. When we started our search for a school, there was no chance we were going to accept anything but the best possible situation for our boy. The Highlander School has far exceeded those lofty expectations. The staff is completely professional at every turn. But more importantly, they are loving, supporting, respectful, silly and creative. The teachers move classes along with the children as they age, building very strong bonds. I simply can't give the Highlander School a strong enough recommendation.