Over the past decade, the increase in private school enrollment has been spurred by several things. The majority report wanting their school to provide instruction in a particular faith or value system. Others prefer a smaller school, and some were looking for a safer environment or better discipline than the available public schools.
Fortunately, in Georgetown and Jarrell, Kids’ Zone Learning Center is one of those schools and they are expanding another grade level because their first grade families want to be able to stay for another year. “We knew our first graders were interested in coming back again,” owner Whitney Hicks says. “The need was there, it’s a fun age and gives us the opportunity to complete those important K-2 years that prepare kids for testing and greater challenges that come in the 3rd grade.”
The 2nd grade teacher-to-be and head teacher at the school is McKenzie Teer, a certified educator who has been teaching for many years in private and public school, and is in her second year at Kids Zone. “I was born to be a teacher. It’s the best thing after being a mother, and I live for those moments when I see the light bulb go on in a child’s eyes.”
Kids Zone teaching is based on the ABEKA curriculum, which is a Christian-based program that encompasses math, reading, science and social studies from a Godly perspective. It is heavily influenced by phonics and very rigorous.
All classes use a method of spiral review and teach standards as well as necessary TEKS skills so students will be prepared when they reach 3rd grade. They also learn Bible verses and incorporate them into science and social studies.
Teer says, “These kids are judged on themselves and their peers here, not the whole county or state. We test and assess to make sure they are where they should be on their grade level.”
Kids’ Zone is proud to have unanimous positive feedback and believe their class parents are part of a large extended family. “The kids are happy and they talk out feelings using sensory tools that make them feel empowered.”
The school is accepting applications now and Hicks encourages parents to schedule a tour to get a first-hand look at their facilities and meet Teer to talk about the program. “To know her is to love her. God put us here for the symbiosis that will make this school even greater.” Visit KidsZoneLearningCenters.org
