Program descriptions

This exclusive class is lead by our full-time teacher Ms. Sydney and is limited to just 4 children. This group begins as young as 6 weeks old.  Students graduate from this class when they are walking well independently and are able to carry objects large and small with them (typically around the age of 18 months). 

Maria Montessori coined this developmental phase known as Nido in Montessori schools to create a safe and nurturing environment for infants to learn and grow.  The term "Nido" is the Italian word for "nest", which captures the essence of comfort and safety -critical to this early learning stage.  We believe that infants deserve a relaxing and cozy environment, reminiscent of home to feel loved and secure while exploring new experiences.

The purpose of our Nido program is to facilitate the developmental milestones of infants by providing activities and materials that encourage movement, exploration, and sensory experiences.

This class is open year-round from 7:00 am-5:00 pm Monday-Thursday and 7:00 am-4:00 pm on Friday.  Tuition is $250.00 per week.   

This class consists of up to eight students and two teachers.  The program is overseen by our Assistant Director Mrs. Sarah, who works closely with all the students, parents, and assistant teachers in this class.   

Students are able to join this class when they graduate from the Nido environment. These children are invited to explore a range of activities designed to help them develop independence, control of movement, language, and much more. They focus on toilet independence, social interactions, language development, and practical life activities such as pouring, managing clothing, and preparing snacks. 

Children transition to our Early Childhood Community class as their independence develops, and once they are fully potty trained. This class is open year-round from 7:00 am-5:00 pm Monday-Thursday and 7:00 am-4:00 pm on Friday.  Tuition is $230.00 per week.   

Our Early Childhood program is lead by our Lead Teacher Ms. Marie and is open to students based on their level of independence and readiness.  An interview with parents and child is required to determine readiness for this program as it is not strictly based on age. 

Learners in our Early Childhood program will be taught through a theme-based custom curriculum that is easily adaptable based student interests while still meeting the learning goals of the group.  When students graduate from our Early Childhood program they will be ready for Public School, Private School, Homeschooling or Unschooling, whatever parents decide is right for their child.  They will be given a strong foundation in this program for future education as well as social, emotional, and physical development.

We take a "one-room schoolhouse" approach to grade-school at The Launchpad Academy.  This elite program is lead by owners Megan Sierk and Justin Sierk and is open to students from Kindergarten through their 3rd grade year.  This class is open year-round with a relaxed curriculum approach during summer months and optional home studies during extended breaks.  Formal class times are from 8:30-3:30  Monday-Thursday with optional Fridays for student-lead interest based learning opportunities. We offer before/after school time from 7-8:30 and 3:30-4:30 if needed.  Tuition for this year-round program is $175.00 per week.  

We will accept TWO K-1 students and  THREE 2-3 students into this program.  Students in these grades who apply for this program will act as mentors and role models for our younger students, volunteer within our community, and fill other important roles within our program.  In addition, these self-motivated students will complete self-guided, teacher-monitored studies that meet the Missouri Learning Standards in their own unique way.  This program is truly a one-of-a-kind educational opportunity.  To qualify, students must have a strong desire to learn, a natural curiosity about the world around them, a desire to make a difference in a larger community, a desire to lead others compassionately and collaboratively, and a growth mindset.