For more than fifty years, Hilltop Children’s Center has been a pioneer in early childhood education, adapting to the evolving needs of Seattle’s educational landscape. Located in North Queen Anne and Fremont, Hilltop offers a unique take on the Seattle Preschool Program (SPP), guided by a philosophy that education should meet the individual developmental needs of each child.
According to the Seattle Department of Education and Early Learning, Hilltop’s approach is centered on the child’s agency and identity. Educators closely observe and respond to children’s play, questions, and developmental cues, ensuring each child’s growth is supported in a personalized way.
A key feature of Hilltop’s method is the use of “learning stories” to track children’s progress. These narratives focus not just on what children are learning, but on who they are becoming. A parent interviewed by the Seattle Department of Education and Early Learning emphasized, “It’s not just about what my child is learning, but who they are as a person.” This approach reflects Hilltop’s belief in building a strong character foundation from an early age.
Hilltop’s educational team works together to create engaging learning experiences that are anti-bias and equity-driven. By reflecting on their practice and collaborating with colleagues, teachers gain a holistic understanding of each child’s social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth. This collaborative effort helps to build a detailed narrative of the child’s journey.
In addition, Hilltop integrates the Teaching Strategies GOLD® (TSG) student assessment tool into their curriculum. This allows for consistent feedback across the Seattle Preschool Program, making it easier for children to transition into Seattle Public Schools kindergarten. As noted by the Seattle Department of Education and Early Learning, this system helps create a “shared language” for documenting and tracking student progress.
Hilltop’s Executive Director, Darline Guerrero, explained that learning stories can highlight a child’s strengths, even when they may not be meeting every competency. “This can greatly benefit the child’s experience, as well as how they see themselves and apply themselves in future learning and engagement,” Guerrero said.
Hilltop’s innovative approach goes beyond academics, equipping children with the skills they need to navigate a complex and diverse world with confidence and empathy. As the Seattle Preschool Program expands, Hilltop offers a model of integrated, child-centered education. Providers interested in joining the SPP for the 2025-2026 school year can apply by December 18, 2024, through the Seattle Department of Education and Early Learning.
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