~Our Philosophy~
~Our Philosophy~
~Our Philosophy~
We are a child directed, play-based program. Our curriculum is derived from the idea
that creativity and learning occur best when children are provided with
numerous and varied options. This idea is based on the open structured nursery
school model, in which the classroom provides different areas of interest. Some
examples of these areas
We are a child directed, play-based program. Our curriculum is derived from the idea
that creativity and learning occur best when children are provided with
numerous and varied options. This idea is based on the open structured nursery
school model, in which the classroom provides different areas of interest. Some
examples of these areas are; blocks, art, puzzle, messy manipulatives,
imaginative play, and book areas. The children are free to roam, spending time in
any area of their choosing. We have optional and varying projects always
available. We mold our curriculum lesson topics to the children’s interests so
they chose the themes that we will fully delve into.
We also believe that nature is a secondary classroom, where children can develop
fine and large motor skills by exploring, digging and climbing. Therefore we
incorporate much outdoor time, in the garden, at the park, and on regular field
trips.
We practice positive reinforcement and attachment, non-punitive style
teaching. We aim to facilitate long lasting connections with children and
families.
~About Us~
~Our Philosophy~
~Our Philosophy~
Shannon Lundling and Michelle Rios are SF born and raised locals. Both met and
taught at the beloved SF preschool original: Little Bear School. Upon the unexpected closure of Little Bear School in August of 2021, Shannon and Michelle decided to team up and open their own smaller version, reinforcing a similar philosophy and teaching style, but with their own unique style.
~COVID POLICY~
~Our Philosophy~
~COVID POLICY~
Our goal is to keep everyone safe. We will be following city and state covid guidelines. Masking is optional at this time. Our teachers are fully vaccinated, and we encourage students and family members to be vaccinated as well. If your child or a member of your household has covid symptoms or has reason to believe they have been exposed
Our goal is to keep everyone safe. We will be following city and state covid guidelines. Masking is optional at this time. Our teachers are fully vaccinated, and we encourage students and family members to be vaccinated as well. If your child or a member of your household has covid symptoms or has reason to believe they have been exposed we ask that they test negative before returning to school. Our policies will change as the city and state guidelines evolve.
~Our Program~
Time: 8:00am-5:30pm
Days: Monday-Friday (3,4,& 5 days available)
Ages: 2 1/2-5 years old
Group Size: 6 Kiddos
Ratio: 1:3
Toilet Training: In progress or completed.
Children who attend 3 or 4 days per week may add extra days if families give advance notice
and if space allows.
Our program runs from August 5th 2024 to June 18th 2025.
During July families can schedule in advance for summer camp, paying only
for days attended.
*Admission completed with $500 deposit.
*Payments are the same month to month, non-refundable, and are paid on the
first of each month.
*Holidays will be observed and follow the SFUSD Holiday Calendar.
*Holidays and sick days will be paid in full.
We drive to field trips and parks.
Meet the Team
Shannon Lundling, Owner
Assistant/Substitute Teachers
Shannon Lundling, Owner
Shannon has worked with children for over 20 years. Mainly as a preschool teacher, but also as a postpartum doula. She has extensive nanny experience, and in running elementary after school programs. She received her degree in Child Development and Early Education from CCSF. Shannon is also mom of two LBS alum.
Michelle Rios, Director
Assistant/Substitute Teachers
Shannon Lundling, Owner
Michelle Rios has taught preschool for 15+ years, and was the lead teacher for Little Bear School’s Pre-K class for 3 years. She received her B.A. in Psychology
from San Francisco State University and certification as an Early Childhood Education Practitioner from CCSF.
Michelle is fluent in Spanish, she designed and directed a preschool
Michelle Rios has taught preschool for 15+ years, and was the lead teacher for Little Bear School’s Pre-K class for 3 years. She received her B.A. in Psychology
from San Francisco State University and certification as an Early Childhood Education Practitioner from CCSF.
Michelle is fluent in Spanish, she designed and directed a preschool Spanish class
for 8 years. She incorporates Spanish into the daily class curriculum.
Assistant/Substitute Teachers
Assistant/Substitute Teachers
Assistant/Substitute Teachers
All staff members are:
Fully Vaccinated for Covid-19
CPR and First Aid Certified
Early Childhood Education Certified
Contact Us
If you have questions about the opportunities available to you in our programs, feel free to send us a message. We will get back to you as soon as possible.
Garden Gate Preschool
Hours
Monday - Friday: 8:00am-5:30pm
