Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Trusted Early Childhood Education in Hobe Sound
Founded in 1962, we are a nonprofit early learning center dedicated to fostering childhood development through nurturing education and recreation. Our programs, designed for children aged 1-5, emphasize social-emotional growth, literacy, and kindergarten readiness using research-based curricula like Frog Street Pre-K. With nearly six decades of service, weve become a cornerstone of the Hobe Sound community, supported by generations of families and local partners. Our bilingual staff, Conscious Discipline framework, and partnerships with organizations like the Lighthouse Gallery ensure a holistic approach to learning.We provide nutritious meals daily and offer parent empowerment workshops to strengthen family engagement. Recognized for our commitment to inclusivity and quality, weve served thousands of children, many from families who attended the center themselves decades ago. Our history includes overcoming challenges like a 1984 fire, rebuilt through community support, and hosting notable visitors like First Lady Barbara Bush. Today, we continue shaping future generations through innovative programs like Music Together and ArtReach, preparing children for academic and lifelong success.
Services
Pre-Kindergarten Programs
ArtReach
Music Together
Fitness Program
Parent Workshops
Details
- Year established: 1962
Highlights and features
- We offer 60+ years of experience in early childhood education
- Our Frog Street Pre-K curriculum integrates social-emotional development with academic readiness
- Bilingual educators support diverse language needs
- Community partnerships enhance our arts, music, and fitness programs
- We provide free nutritious meals to all enrolled children
What people say
Nurturing staff
Kindergarten readiness
Lifelong memories
Community support
Bilingual programs
Services
Pre-Kindergarten Programs
Our Frog Street Pre-K curriculum prepares children for kindergarten through structured learning in literacy, math, and social skills. Certified educators use Conscious Discipline to foster emotional development alongside academic readiness. Small group instruction ensures personalized attention for each child.
ArtReach
Weekly interactive art instruction from Lighthouse Gallery professionals develops creativity and fine motor skills. Children explore diverse artistic techniques and materials in a supportive environment that encourages self-expression and imagination.
Music Together
This research-based music curriculum enhances school readiness through singing, movement, and instrument play. Family engagement activities strengthen parent-child bonds while developing musical aptitude and social skills in a joyful setting.
Fitness Program
Daily physical activities improve motor skills and academic focus. Structured exercise sessions promote healthy habits while developing coordination, balance, and teamwork through age-appropriate games and movement activities.
Parent Workshops
Empowerment workshops teach parenting strategies that build self-esteem, resilience, and effective communication. Sessions cover creating supportive home environments and reinforcing learning concepts through everyday activities and positive discipline techniques.
People
Ashley Azzi
Head of School
Overseeing educational operations with 15+ years in early childhood education. Holds advanced degrees in child development and curriculum design. Previously served as lead teacher and program director.
Kiersten Alberto
Center Manager
Manages daily operations with decade-long experience in childcare administration. Specializes in program development and staff training. Holds state-certified director credentials.
Petra Pitkonen
Director of Finance
Financial strategist with nonprofit expertise. Oversees budgeting and grants management. Previously worked with educational foundations in South Florida.
Rachel Sheperd
Director of Development
Development professional managing fundraising and community partnerships. Brings 12 years of nonprofit leadership experience. Coordinates annual giving campaigns and donor relations.
Steve Bartam
Co-President
Board leader with extensive local nonprofit experience. Community advocate focused on early education access. Serves on multiple regional education advisory committees.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We accept children aged 1-5 years in our developmentally appropriate classrooms, including a Head Start program for 3-5 year olds.
Is financial assistance available?
As a nonprofit, we offer sliding-scale tuition and accept state childcare subsidies to ensure accessibility for all families.
What curriculum do you use?
We implement Frog Street Pre-K, a research-based curriculum integrating social-emotional learning, literacy, and STEM fundamentals for early childhood development.
How do you communicate with parents?
Our Brightwheel app provides daily updates, progress tracking, and instant communication between teachers and families for seamless engagement.
What safety measures are in place?
We maintain strict security protocols including controlled access, background checks for staff, and regular safety drills to ensure child protection.
Can I visit the center?
Virtual tours are available online. Contact our office to schedule an in-person visit during designated open house events or staff-guided appointments.
