Frequently Asked
Questions

• What is the educational philosophy of Joyful Zen Academy?

​We believe that the formative years between four and seven are critical for a child’s development. We strive to create an environment that nurtures our student’s natural desire to learn. Our Montessori-inspired materials allow your child to explore and develop their cognitive, social, emotional, and physical abilities in a safe and loving environment.

• What are the benefits of a micro-school?

The benefits of an in-home micro-school include personalized attention, a familiar and comfortable learning environment, flexibility in scheduling, and the ability to tailor the curriculum to the child's specific needs. Additionally, it allows for closer involvement of parents or guardians in their child's education and promotes a sense of security and continuity.

• What is the age range of students at Joyful Zen Academy?

​At Joyful Zen Academy, we prioritize the well-being of our families and strive to provide exceptional education for students from Kindergarten to 5th Grade. As our children progress and develop, our pod-based learning program will adapt and expand alongside them, catering to their needs from elementary school through junior high.

• What is the process for scheduling a tour?

Tours of Joyful Zen Academy are available by appointment only. Our current touring hours are Monday - Friday 4-5pm and Saturday Morning/Afternoon. Please contact us to schedule a tour and to find out more about our school. We look forward to meeting you!

• Do I need to bring anything to the tour?

​We highly recommend bringing your child along to give them a chance to experience the space and for you to assess if it's the right fit for their educational journey.

• What will I learn about Joyful Zen Academy during the tour?

During your tour of Joyful Zen Academy, you will have the opportunity to explore both the indoor and outdoor spaces. We highly encourage you to bring your child along so they can experience the wonders of Joyful Zen as well. Throughout the tour, you will have the chance to meet our founder, Charlotte Acevedo, and engage in meaningful 1-to-1 conversations. Feel free to ask any questions that come to mind, as we are here to provide you with all the information you need. Additionally, you will be guided through the common areas where our exciting events and extra-curricular activities, such as Soccer and Movie Nights, take place. Join us for an unforgettable tour filled with inspiration and discovery at Joyful Zen Academy.

• What is the admissions process?

Once you've taken a tour of our wonderful micro-school, we will send you an admissions email packed with all the information you need to enroll. We kindly request that all families interested in joining Joyful Zen attend a school tour before submitting an application for admission.

• What is the tuition rate?

Our tuition is $1700 per month, which can be paid either on a monthly or broken down on a weekly basis. There is also a one-time registration fee of $150 during the enrollment period.​

• Are there any additional fees?

No extra charges apply. The monthly tuition covers all activities, including morning and afternoon snacks, access to coaches and lessons with our specialized instructors for various disciplines such as hip hop dance, soccer, drumming, and more.

• What is the curriculum like?

​Our comprehensive curriculum covers a wide range of subjects, including Language, Math, Social Studies, Science, Art, Mindfulness, Philanthropy, Entrepreneurship, group projects, movement activities, and much more. To explore our curriculum in detail, click here or reach out to us for more information.

• What are the class sizes at Joyful Zen Academy?

Our class consists of a total of ten students. In our program, we ensure a teacher to student ratio of at least 1:8. The class size may vary depending on enrollment, occasionally being less than ten or potentially slightly larger.

• How does Joyful Zen Academy ensure each student gets individual attention?

With intentionally small class sizes, we make sure your student gets personalized attention from our experienced instructors. Throughout the day, our instructors cater to each student's unique needs and learning styles, creating a supportive and enriching environment. Your student will receive a high-quality education that prioritizes individualized instruction.

• What extracurricular activities are available?

Our exciting activities program starts at 2pm on specific days. We provide a diverse selection of engaging options to keep your child entertained and interested. From developing soccer skills to learning hip hop dance, martial arts, chess, cooking, Spanish, and more - there's something for everyone. These enjoyable sessions will not only introduce your child to new passions but also ensure they have a fantastic time.

• Does Joyful Zen Academy offer summer programs?

​We are delighted to announce an exciting 3-week Summer Camp scheduled from July 22nd to August 9th, 2024. This captivating program guarantees to create enduring core memories for your child, nurturing their development and providing cherished experiences that will be treasured for a lifetime.

• Are there any parental involvement opportunities?

As part of the Joyful Zen program, we encourage family members to join us for our special themed events, including parties, movie nights, field trips and graduations.

• What kind of technology does Joyful Zen Academy use?

We will begin to introduce tablets and computers into the learning environment no earlier than 3rd grade. In grades K - 2nd grade, we emphasize the importance of hands-on manipulative materials, physical books, and the development of fundamental writing skills. These elements are considered essential core skills for a well-rounded learning experience.

• What are Joyful Zen Academy’s holiday and vacation policies?

The holiday schedule for Joyful Zen Academy can be accessed in your handbook and is regularly updated on our website. We kindly request that families inform us of any scheduled vacations or extended absences to ensure proper lesson preparation and effective communication with our team.

• Are meals and snacks provided at Joyful Zen Academy?

We provide our students with both a morning and afternoon snack, consisting of organic fruits, vegetables, crackers, yogurt, and other nutritious options. However, we kindly request that students bring their own lunches from home. Our facilities are equipped with refrigerators and the capability to warm food as needed.

• Is there a dress code for students at Joyful Zen Academy?

​At our academy, we celebrate and embrace each child's individuality, recognizing that they are at an age where expressing themselves through clothing is crucial for their self-development. While there is no strict dress code, we kindly request that children come dressed in weather-appropriate and comfortable attire, along with suitable footwear.

• Does Joyful Zen Academy have a safety plan and protocols in place?

At Joyful Zen Academy, your child's safety is our utmost priority. We have implemented comprehensive protocols to ensure fire and emergency safety. Our instructors are certified and trained in CPR, and our school is situated in a secure facility. Rest assured, we are committed to providing a safe and secure environment for your child.

• Does Joyful Zen Academy offer any financial aid or payment plans?

At the moment, we do not provide financial assistance. However, we do offer the flexibility of payment on a weekly or monthly basis.