Before children return to the classroom for a new school year, the educators at KLA Schools of Palmetto Bay return to their own role as learners. This summer, members of the school’s team joined KLA educators from across the country for the annual KLA Schools Conference in Miami, where they explor ed new ideas, shared best practices and deepened their understanding of the Reggio Emilia-inspired approach to early childhood education. The experience is followed by a dedicated week of professional development at the school, giving teachers time to collaborate, thoughtfully prepare their classrooms and consider how they will welcome and support each child. For KLA Schools of Palmetto Bay, this preparation reflects a belief that meaningful learning begins with meaningful relationships. “Children deserve teachers who are curious about who they are, what they are thinking and what they are capable of,” said Yudith Moreno, Pedagogical Coordinator at KLA Schools of Palmetto Bay. “Our professional development helps us begin the year ready to listen, observe and create learning experiences that grow from the children’s interests and ideas.” Moreno has spent 15 years with KLA Schools and is now entering her 7th year as Pedagogical Coordinator at the Palmetto Bay school. Born in Havana, Cuba, she moved to Miami at age eight and developed an early appreciation for the area’s natural environment, diverse cultures and proximity to the ocean. She began her KLA journey as part of the founding team at KLA Schools of Doral. During her career, she has worked with children from infancy through 12 years old, served as an Atelierista and participated in conferences and learning opportunities focused on the Reggio Emilia approach. She also traveled to Reggio Emilia, Italy, to visit the schools where the internationally respected educational philosophy began. “Visiting the schools in Reggio Emilia was one of the most inspiring experiences of my career,” Moreno said. “I feel fortunate to bring that learning back to our community and share this educational approach with the children, families and teachers of KLA Schools of Palmetto Bay.” A Distinctive Investment in Teachers The Pedagogical Coordinator is an important part of the educational model at KLA Schools. Rather than managing only daily operations, Moreno works alongside teachers to study children’s thinking, reflect on classroom experiences, support curriculum development and strengthen the connection between educational philosophy and classroom practice. What Is the Reggio Emilia Approach? The Reggio Emilia approach views children as capable, curious and full of ideas. Rather than relying solely on predetermined lessons, teachers closely observe children, listen to their questions and create opportunities for deeper investigation. The classroom environment also plays an important role. Natural materials, open-ended resources, collaborative spaces and visible documentation of children’s work encourage exploration and help make learning more meaningful. Parents can bring elements of this approach into their homes without creating formal lessons or purchasing special materials. Moreno recommends that families: Slow down and ask open-ended questions, such as “What do you notice?” or “What do you think might happen?” Allow children time to explore an idea without immediately giving them the answer. Offer simple, open-ended materials such as paper, recycled boxes, leaves, stones, clay or building materials. Invite children to represent their thinking through drawing, movement, storytelling or construction. Take photographs or write down children’s words to show that their ideas are valued. Explore the local environment together and follow the questions that naturally emerge. “Reggio Emilia is not something that only happens in a classroom,” Moreno said. “Parents can support the same kind of curiosity at home by listening carefully, noticing what captures their child’s attention and exploring those interests together. It is a way of being and encountering life.” A Lasting Part of the Palmetto Bay Community For 13 years, KLA Schools of Palmetto Bay has welcomed local children and families, building relationships that often continue long after graduation. Over the years, the school has watched former students carry the confidence, independence, creativity and love of learning developed during their early years into elementary school and beyond. “KLA gave our daughter so much more than a strong academic foundation. The teachers truly took the time to understand who our child was, what sparked her curiosity, and how she learned best,” said Joanna Perdomo, KLA parent of a recent graduate. “We watched our daughter become more confident, independent, creative, and excited to ask questions and explore new ideas. When it was time to begin elementary school, we knew she was prepared not only academically, but also socially and emotionally. This school was such a wonderful place for our family in those early years.” As another school year begins, the educators at KLA Schools of Palmetto Bay are preparing not simply to teach, but to listen, learn, and discover alongside their students. KLA Schools of Palmetto Bay is located at 14875 South Dixie Highway Unit B, Palmetto Bay, FL 33176. To learn more or schedule a tour, visit https://www.klaschools.com/palmetto-bay or call 305-233-0130. About KLA Schools of Palmetto Bay KLA Schools of Palmetto Bay is a Reggio Emilia-inspired early childhood education program serving children from 3 months to 5 years of age. The school offers an environment where children are respected as capable learners and encouraged to investigate, collaborate, build meaningful relationships and express their ideas in many different ways.The post Schools of Palmetto Bay Prepares for a New Year of Curiosity, Connection and Discovery first appeared on Miami's Community News. ...read more read less