A Curriculum Designed for Kindergarten Success

Founded by educator Melissa McLaughlin, The Heights Learning Academy combines the joy of childhood with a thoughtfully designed curriculum that prepares children for success in kindergarten and beyond.

While kindergarten readiness is important, our primary goal is to help children develop confidence, curiosity, independence, and a genuine love of learning. We believe children learn best when they are actively engaged, encouraged to ask questions, explore their interests, and discover the world around them through meaningful experiences.

Each week, families receive a curriculum overview highlighting the themes, concepts, and skills their children will be exploring. Lessons are thoughtfully integrated across literacy, mathematics, science, art, music, Spanish, and social-emotional learning, creating meaningful connections that help children retain and apply what they learn.

Parents are encouraged to extend the learning at home through simple activities, conversations, and experiences that complement classroom instruction. It is truly remarkable what young children can absorb when learning is engaging, hands-on, and fun.

Small Class Sizes. Big Results.

At The Heights Learning Academy, class size is intentionally kept small to preserve quality and ensure every child is known.

This small-group setting allows children to receive individualized attention, personalized instruction, and meaningful support while still benefiting from the friendships and social experiences that come from learning alongside peers.

Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, learning is tailored to each child's unique strengths, interests, and developmental needs. Children are encouraged to work at their own pace, build confidence, take risks, and experience the pride that comes from mastering new skills.

Deep Roots in the Long Beach Community

The Heights Learning Academy is proud to call Belmont Heights home and to serve families throughout Long Beach and the surrounding neighborhoods.

We believe childhood should be filled with adventure, exploration, and wonder. Our students regularly venture beyond the classroom through neighborhood walks, park visits, nature exploration, and real-world learning experiences that help them develop a connection to the community around them.

No two days are exactly alike. A typical week may include science experiments, art projects, gardening, music, outdoor play, storytelling, community walks, Spanish lessons, and countless opportunities for discovery. Each day is intentionally designed to spark curiosity, encourage creativity, and make learning an exciting experience.

As a locally owned small business, we are deeply invested in the families we serve and the community we share. Many of our students come from Belmont Heights, Naples, Bluff Park, Alamitos Heights, and neighboring Long Beach communities, creating a close-knit school culture built on connection, trust, and lasting relationships.

The result is a warm, child-centered preschool where children feel known, parents feel connected, and every day brings new opportunities to learn, grow, and explore.