The Oaks Academy Early Education Center provides a nurturing, Christ-centered environment where our Pre-K students begin their academic journey with joy and curiosity. Our rich curriculum lays the groundwork for their education through 8th grade and beyond. Your child will develop essential social, academic, and motor skills through hands-on exploration and play. Guided by experienced teachers, children engage in a time-tested, holistic approach that fosters a love for learning.
General Info:
Address: 1301 E 16th St, Indianapolis, IN 46202
Phone: (317) 610-0880
Website: https://www.theoaksacademy.org/early-education
Q&A with The Oaks Academy: Early Education Center:
What makes The Oaks Academy: Early Education Center unique?
The Oaks Academy’s unique approach lies in its blend of rigorous classical education within a Christ-centered environment. With a strong focus on relationships, we build a close-knit school community that embraces diversity. Our classrooms are designed to inspire academic excellence, foster a love of learning, and cultivate an appreciation for beauty and nature. We prepare students for the future by helping them develop perseverance and emotional, social, and spiritual maturity.
Our Pre-Kindergarten curriculum, paired with our experienced faculty, builds a foundation for a child’s academic success by developing critical social, academic, fine, and gross motor skills. We have designed our program based on a time-tested curriculum that inspires a lifelong love of learning in every child. As a result, children master developmental skills as they learn, explore, and play, starting their journey to holistic success.
What is The Oaks Academy’s educational philosophy?
other/Classical, faith-based
The Oaks is a Christ-centered school that offers a classical education. Our curriculum integrates rich ideas from history, literature, mathematics, science, art, music, nature, and more to develop the whole person. We welcome families of all backgrounds and faiths, focusing on sharing what is true, good, and beautiful to inspire a lifelong love of learning.
What is The Oaks Academy’s age/grade range?
The Oaks Academy serves students from Pre-K through 8th grade. To enroll in Pre-K, children must be 4 years old by August 1st of the academic year.
What is your enrollment policy? Are there any key dates parents should be aware of?
The Oaks Academy follows a formal application process. Early Education applicants (Pre-K through 1st grade) are required to complete a readiness assessment with our faculty.
Key dates:
- Early Decision Deadline: December 1
- Regular Decision Deadline: March 1
In-person events and tours are available throughout the year. Visit TheOaksAcademy.org/visit to view upcoming opportunities.
What are the standard school day hours? Does The Oaks Academy offer flexible day/hour options? Is before/after school care available?
The Early Education Center has a soft arrival window that begins at 8 am, with classes beginning at 8:45 am. There is a 30-minute dismissal window from 2:55 – 3:25 pm, with aftercare available until 5 pm. Our school meets five days a week, and you may choose either a full or half-day program.
How many children are in each class? How are children divided up?
There are 16 students in each class, with two full-time teachers to support the class. Students are placed based on admissions assessments, and classes are selected with an intentional focus on gender and racial diversity.
What is the teacher/child ratio?
8:1 – 16 students with one teacher and one instructional assistant in each classroom
Is parental participation required?
Parental participation isn’t required, but families are warmly encouraged to join in the life of The Oaks! Many parents get involved by joining our Family Tree Organization, volunteering in the classroom, chaperoning field trips, or joining morning worship at Lauds and Chapel. We also invite families to attend school with their child on two Saturdays each year.
How do teachers communicate with parents? How often do parents receive updates?
Our school focuses on strong parent-teacher partnerships to prepare your child for success beyond Pre-Kindergarten. Parents are always welcome to connect with teachers before and after school. Teachers also keep parents in the loop with weekly newsletters that share updates and class highlights.
Does The Oaks Academy offer support for students with special needs?
Yes, we provide small-group instruction for students who need extra support. Our team works closely with families to create personalized student learning plans, ensuring each child receives the care and attention they need to succeed.
How much time do the children spend outside?
At The Oaks, outdoor time is a big part of our daily routine! In addition to daily play, students have two recesses each day. Pre-K students also enjoy 30 minutes of physical education each week, during which they practice fun games that build gross motor skills, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
Are meals and/or snacks provided?
Yes, breakfast and lunch are offered, and families can apply for the federal free and reduced meal program. Students also enjoy a morning snack before their first recess, and those who stay for aftercare are provided with a snack as well.
Does my child need to be potty-trained?
Yes, children must be fully potty-trained when they begin school.
What enrichment programs/activities are offered?
Pre-Kindergarten students enjoy a variety of specials as part of our curriculum, including weekly art, music, physical education, and library time.
In physical education, Pre-K students participate in simple games that build gross motor skills, teamwork, and sportsmanship, all while having fun and staying active. In art class, students explore different materials such as scissors, paint, clay, and yarn to spark their creativity. Music class introduces them to rhythm, melody, harmony, and expressive movement. Our library time in the historic Paul Laurence Dunbar Library builds a love of reading from the start of their educational journey.
What are The Oaks Academy’s safety policies?
A safety officer and a security system secure each campus. A school resource officer also is in place across each of our locations.
Who should parents contact for more information about The Oaks Academy?
For inquiries, contact the Admissions Office by email at admissions@theoaksacademy.org or call (317) 610-0880.
