We are Non-Traditional School

We are a Non-Traditional School. Our own unique approach to early childhood education is the result of over 15 years of intense research-based studies of educational philosophies from both the US and around the world. These studies include, but are not limited to, educational philosophies such as Reggio Emilia, Piaget, Montessori, Gardner, Charlotte Mason and Waldorf. As a result, the teachers at Chiquitos School are able to assess the readiness of each child and determine the best steps for optimal growth.

Programs

Our regular school year is from September through mid June. We also offer a summer program that is 10 weeks long, and occurs from Mid June to Mid August. We offer Winter and Spring Break Camps, a drop-in service for school aged children, and tutoring in Spanish as well.

Schedules and Hours of Operation

During the regular school year, classes start at 8:15 and end at 12:30, for a half day, or 3:30, for a full day. The school is open from 7:15 AM to 6:00 PM, before and after school care is available.

Teachers and Faculty

We carefully select our staff in order to provide the best possible care and education for the children. In addition to their educational background, we look for people who respect each child as an individual. All of our teachers have been carefully screened, and have teaching degrees from their Spanish speaking countries.

Licenses and Accreditation

Chiquitos is licensed annually by the Oregon Child Care Division to provide care for children 1.5 to 12 years of age. Chiquitos is registered as a private school with the Oregon Department of Education, a member of Oregon Federation of Independent Schools, and is currently seeking accreditation with National Alliance of Private Schools.

Fees and Deposits

A $125 non-refundable application fee is required with pre-enrollment, as well as a $300 deposit that is required upon admission. The deposit will be applied to the final tuition payment.

Student-Teacher Ratio

Toddler: 4 to 1, Preschool: 10 to 1, Kindergarten and older: 14 to 1.

Enrollment

We accept children from age 1.5 to 12. However we are currently enrolling through third grade. Enrollment is open to an individual child's readiness and space available. Admissions process takes approximately three weeks to complete.

Food

The school provides a healthy morning and afternoon snack. Students bring a healthy hot or cold lunch from home.

Uniforms

Uniforms are mandatory for all children. Chiquitos initially brought the uniform aspect to the school to add to the cultural element, and found that they functioned well as far as practicality and work clothes.

Facility

Our current school building and beautiful grounds will allow for up to 70 students. A new facility plan is underway, which will allow us to expand to 150 children.

Parent Involvement

Parents are expected for contribute to the school by volunteering their talents throughout the year. 25 hours per family is required.

Bilingual or Immersion?

Chiquitos offers Total Spanish immersion. Our focus is not teaching the language but teaching through the language.

English Class

English is introduced when the child has mastered reading and writing skills in Spanish, regardless of age, but in general between 6 & 7 years of age. Language Arts is the main focus for English studies, however other subjects may complement the English curriculum.

Tuition

Tuition is calculated yearly based on 38 to 39 weeks per year, not including winter and spring breaks. Tuition is due in upon enrollment, or financial agreements can be made through our partnership with SMART Tuition Management Services to make installment tuition payments.

Curriculum

The curriculum supports the Whole Child development and is based on 15 years of investigation, research, and observation by Chiquitos founder and director Isabel Lainez.