Jeff Bezos’ San Antonio school opens in fall. Here’s how to get in.
Jeff Bezos, the visionary entrepreneur behind the global powerhouse Amazon, is expanding his philanthropic endeavors with the opening of more free preschools, including one in Universal City, San Antonio. Set to commence operations in the upcoming fall, the school will be housed within Northeast Lakeview College on the Northeast Side of San Antonio, offering a transformative educational opportunity for young children in the area.
Enrollment and Eligibility
Alamo Colleges District revealed the arrival of a Bezos Academy in the San Antonio region back in May 2023. Operating on a tuition-free basis, the preschool invites applications for the 2024-2025 school year, employing a lottery system to determine acceptance. As applications opened on April 18 and continue until July 14, prospective students and their families are encouraged to seize this opportunity to secure a spot in the highly sought-after institution.
The Bezos Academy, fully funded by the e-commerce titan Jeff Bezos himself, promises a comprehensive educational experience. Offering year-round, all-day programming five days a week, the school not only provides essential educational resources but also ensures that students are nourished with breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as highlighted by Bezos Academy spokesperson Allison Leader.
Children aged 3 and 4 years old are eligible for enrollment, with families earning up to 400% of the federal poverty level being considered. This equates to approximately $125,000 per year for a family of four. Moreover, the preschool warmly welcomes English language learners, fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment for all.
Jeff Bezos’ Free preschool “Bezos Academy” to open campus in Universal City
Application Process and Curriculum
Parents or guardians interested in securing a place for their child at the Bezos Academy must complete an online application for each prospective student. Notably, if one child from a family is accepted into the preschool, siblings who were included in the initial application will also be admitted, contingent upon seat availability. For assistance with enrollment, individuals can reach out to the academy’s helpline at 1-833-560-2221.
The lottery for the 2024-2025 school year in Universal City is scheduled for July 15, with families set to receive notification of acceptance by July 17. Following acceptance, families are required to register their child’s information with the preschool to finalize enrollment.
The Bezos Academy prides itself on its innovative curriculum, which is described as child-centered, culturally responsive, standards-based, and Montessori-inspired. With a focus on social-emotional learning, language skills, math, practical skills, sensory development, art, music, and movement, the curriculum is designed to nurture holistic development in each student.
In conclusion, Jeff Bezos’ initiative to establish free preschools, such as the one in San Antonio, represents a significant investment in the future generation. By providing access to high-quality early childhood education, the Bezos Academy aims to empower young learners and lay the foundation for lifelong success.
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