The Hilltop Children's Center, a standout institution in early childhood education for over half a century, continues to adapt and grow within Seattle's dynamic educational landscape. Based on a philosophy that education should be tailored to fit the individual child's development, Hilltop's North Queen Anne and Fremont classrooms offer the Seattle Preschool Program (SPP) with a unique twist. According to an article released by the Seattle Department of Education and Early Learning, this center has employed a method that emphasizes a child's agency and identity by closely watching and responding to their play, questions, and developmental cues.
Hilltop uses 'learning stories' to document children's progress, focusing on a rich narrative that showcases a child's progress. They are said to mark milestones and the child's journey in achieving them. In a statement obtained by the Seattle Department of Education and Early Learning, a parent expressed, "It's not just about what my child is learning, but who they are as a person." This reflects the center's core belief in developing a strong, character-driven foundation from a young age.
The educational team at Hilltop endeavors to co-create learning experiences that resonate with children while employing an anti-bias, equity-driven approach built into their curriculum's fabric. These educators aim to construct a holistic understanding of each child through collaborations with colleagues and reflective practices. It's a process that culminates in a narrative, painting a vivid picture of a child's developmental journey, which includes insight into their social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth.
In partnership with the Teaching Strategies GOLD® (TSG) student assessment tool, Hilltop's learning stories provide comprehensive feedback shared across the Seattle Preschool Program and into the transition into Seattle Public Schools kindergarten. According to the Seattle Department of Education and Early Learning, this approach helps to create a "shared language" for observing and documenting student progress. Darline Guerrero, the Executive Director at Hilltop, told the Department, “Learning stories can highlight a child’s strengths who might not be meeting all…competencies,” says Darline Guerrero, Executive Director at Hilltop. “This can greatly benefit the child’s experience, as well as how they see themselves and apply themselves in future learning and engagement.”
The approach at Hilltop appears to embody a broader vision that extends beyond the academic, equipping children with the necessary tools to confidently and empathetically navigate a world marked by complexity and diversity. Hilltop's example offers a clear model of an innovative and integrated approach to early childhood education as the Seattle Preschool Program looks to expand and invite new providers for the 2025-2026 school year. Providers interested in joining the SPP Expansion can learn more and apply by December 18, 2024, through the information provided by the Seattle Department of Education and Early Learning's announcement.
