Ivybrook Academy Soon to Open in the South Hills of Pittsburgh

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Ivybrook Academy, a one-of-a-kind half day pre-school program, experiencing continued growth throughout the United States, is opening soon in South Fayette, Pennsylvania, near the Upper St. Clair border. The staff of the new Ivybrook Academy campus looks forward to opening its doors to students and families in August of 2022.

Ivybrook Academy, based in the Charlotte, North Carolina area, is recognized for its multi-faceted approach to early childhood education. It combines elements of Montessori and Reggio Emilia education with Multiple Intelligence Research, crafting a balanced curriculum with emphasis on creating a continuous cycle of learning, designedto reflect a child’s interests and needs.

“We are confident that families in our area will recognize what a great educational opportunity Ivybrook Academy is for young children. As word is spreading about our grand opening, we are getting a lot of interest from parents,” says Darah Kirstein. She and husband Denis are lifelong residents of Bethel Park and owners of the new Pittsburgh-area Ivybrook Academy.

Both Darah and Denis are accomplished professionals and active in their community. They have four daughters ages two through ten years old. They understand first-hand how valuable early childhood education is and are excited to be a part of bringing a school of this caliber to their hometown.

“We believe in this product so much, that our own daughters will be students here. Our two youngest girls will have the opportunity to learn and grow at this school,” explains Denis. “One look at this curriculum and we were sold. We believe in empowering children through self-expression and we love the parental involvement element.”

Even throughout the building process, the Kirsteins recognize the deliberate thoughtfulness that has gone into creating this school. “So much thought has gone into this process. Aesthetically, the design is intentional to enhance the learning experience, the operations and relationships are all about putting children and family first,” Darah says. “It’s very authentic. This is the way it should be to help children grow in a positive, enriching environment.”

With four young children, Darah and Denis can relate to the issues facing young families in their community like during the pandemic when so many moms, including Darah, juggled work and helping their kids with remote learning. “It was very challenging. We don’t want any child to struggle during in the all-important formative years,” explains Darah. “ Education is not one size fits all, we’ve got to encourage and embrace different learning styles. That’s what Ivybrook is all about.”

Ivybrook Academy South Fayette is located at 3127 Washington Pike. Enrollment for summer camp and fall half day classes is underway. To learn more about the curriculum go to https://ivybrookacademy.com/ivybrook-academy-st-clair/.

“There are a few reasons we are excited about opening this location, says Drew McWilliams, Chief Executive Officer of Ivybrook Academy. “First and foremost, we are pleased to provide our progressive curriculum to families in this growing community. Secondly, on a personal note, Pittsburgh is home to myself and my wife, Jennifer, who is the founder of Ivybrook Academy. It kind of feels like a full circle moment for us. We look forward to welcoming young learners to the new campus in the coming months.”

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