Business Details
48 Years
experience
Trusted Preschool & Kindergarten Education in Sandpoint
Selkirk School has been dedicated to fostering a love of learning in preschool and kindergarten children in Sandpoint since 1978. Our approach combines individualized attention, experienced educators, and a curriculum that integrates academic skills with child-centered activities. We prioritize daily outdoor exploration on our 4-acre wooded property, ensuring children engage with nature year-round. Weekly music and yoga classes led by local specialists, drama activities, and problem-solving opportunities form the foundation of our educational philosophy. Our classrooms are designed to meet high academic standards while addressing each child's developmental needs. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we emphasize community involvement and offer programs like military fee assistance and volunteer opportunities.Our staff brings decades of combined experience in early childhood education, with many team members having personal connections to the school as parents of alumni. The curriculum balances play-based learning with structured instruction, preparing students for future academic and social success. We maintain small class sizes to ensure personalized support and foster a sense of belonging within our school community. Our commitment to transparency, quality education, and family engagement has made us a trusted institution in Sandpoint for over four decades.
Services
Threeschool
Preschool
Pre-K
Kindergarten
Aftercare Program
Summer Camp
Details
- Year established: 1978
Highlights and features
- Experienced teachers with small class sizes for personalized attention
- Daily outdoor learning on our 4-acre wooded property in all seasons
- Weekly music and yoga classes led by local specialists
- Integrated curriculum combining play-based learning with academic instruction
- Aftercare program extending educational activities until 5:10 PM
What people say
Best school in Sandpoint
Dedicated teachers
Outdoor exploration
Strong community
Engaging curriculum
Services
Threeschool
Our Threeschool program offers structured learning for 3-year-olds through play-based activities and outdoor exploration. Children develop social skills while engaging with nature on our 4-acre property. The curriculum prepares them for future academic success through hands-on experiences.
Preschool
Preschool classes focus on early childhood development through creative play and academic fundamentals. Students participate in music, yoga, and nature-based learning while building essential social and cognitive skills in small classes.
Kindergarten
Kindergarten combines teacher-directed instruction with child-led exploration to meet Idaho State Standards. The program emphasizes literacy, math, science, and social studies through interdisciplinary projects and seasonal celebrations.
Aftercare Program
Aftercare extends learning through creative activities and outdoor play until 5:10 PM. Current students and alumni through first grade enjoy arts, games, and nature exploration in a supervised environment with familiar staff.
Summer Camp
Summer Camp offers themed outdoor adventures including nature exploration, water play, and creative projects. Weekly activities incorporate storytelling, crafts, and physical play while maintaining connections to our educational philosophy.
People
Ms. Sara
ThreeSchool Teacher
BA in Elementary Education with 10+ years teaching experience. Passionate about early childhood development and mother of two Selkirk alumni. Specializes in creating nurturing learning environments for 3-year-olds.
Mr. Ryne
Kindergarten/Pre-K Teacher
Masters in Elementary Education with prior public school experience. Combines creativity and academic rigor to engage young learners. Parent of Selkirk alumni who values the school's community-focused approach.
Ms. Molly
School Director
Over 20 years of experience in child education and business management. Oversees curriculum development and school operations. Advocates for outdoor learning and maintains strong family-teacher partnerships.
Questions
What age groups does Selkirk School serve?
We offer programs for 3-year-olds through kindergarten, with an aftercare program available for students through first grade.
Is Selkirk School accredited?
While not formally accredited, we maintain high standards through our experienced staff, research-based curriculum, and nonprofit oversight.
Do you offer financial assistance options?
Yes, we participate in the Military Child Care In Your Neighborhood with Exception program and offer a 10% sibling discount.
What is your student-to-teacher ratio?
We maintain small class sizes with two teachers per classroom to ensure personalized attention and support for each child.
Are meals provided during the school day?
Children bring their own lunches and snacks. Aftercare program participants may bring additional snacks for afternoon activities.
How do you incorporate outdoor learning?
Daily outdoor exploration on our 4-acre wooded property is central to our curriculum, with activities adapted for all seasons and weather conditions.