For more than 15 years, KLA Schools of Aventura has invited children to ask questions, explore ideas and see themselves as capable participants in their own learning. Since opening in 2010, the school has become a trusted part of the Aventura community, building lasting relationships with families a nd helping children develop strong academic, social and emotional foundations through a Reggio Emilia-inspired educational approach. That longevity is also reflected in the educators who have grown professionally within KLA Schools and dedicated their careers to creating meaningful early learning experiences. Zaida Alfonzo, Pedagogical Director at KLA Schools of Aventura, has been with KLA Schools for 18 years. During that time, she has served as an assistant teacher, co-teacher and head teacher before moving into her current leadership role. She also helped train KLA Schools locations in Brickell and Walnut Creek, California. “KLA has been an ever-evolving journey for me, both personally and professionally,” Alfonzo said. “I have had the privilege of learning alongside children, families and educators while helping create meaningful environments where children’s ideas, relationships and curiosity can grow.” The Pedagogical Director plays a distinctive role within the KLA Schools educational model. Alfonzo works closely with teachers to observe and interpret children’s learning, reflect on classroom experiences, and support the development of projects and learning opportunities that emerge from children’s interests, questions and discoveries. She is also pursuing a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership, further deepening her understanding of learning, leadership, and how educational environments can support both children and educators. “One of my greatest goals is to bring greater awareness to what becomes possible when we truly listen to young children and value their thinking,” Alfonzo said. “Children have important ideas, theories and unique perspectives. When we take their thinking seriously and give them meaningful opportunities to express it, we help them develop confidence in their ability to contribute, communicate and make meaning of the world around them.” A Reggio Emilia-Inspired Foundation The Reggio Emilia approach views children as capable, curious individuals with rights, ideas and many ways of expressing themselves. Rather than relying only on predetermined lessons, teachers listen carefully, document children’s thinking and create opportunities for deeper investigation. At KLA Schools of Aventura, this approach supports academic preparation while encouraging creativity, collaboration, problem-solving and a lasting enthusiasm for learning. Over the years, families have frequently asked what comes next when their children complete the preschool program. KLA Schools is preparing to answer that question by expanding its Aventura campus and adding KLA Academy in Aventura. The proposed campus would become KLA’s new home in the community, extending its educational offerings beyond preschool into the elementary grades and giving local families the opportunity to continue a Reggio Emilia-inspired education through more of their child’s formative years. “We are incredibly excited that a KLA Academy is coming to Aventura. It reflects the demand we have seen from families who value a high-quality educational experience that protects children’s curiosity and inspires them to remain engaged in their learning,” said Pilar Rodriguez, Administrator of KLA Schools of Aventura. Additional information about the future KLA Academy, including anticipated groundbreaking and opening dates, will be announced as plans are finalized. A Legacy Built Through Relationships Although the new Academy represents an exciting step forward, Rodriguez said the foundation of KLA’s work in Aventura will remain the same: meaningful relationships among children, educators and families. “The strength of our school has always been its people,” Rodriguez said. “We have educators like Zaida who have dedicated many years to growing within KLA and deepening their understanding of children. That experience and continuity matter to families, and they will continue to guide us as we prepare for this next chapter.” For Alfonzo, the future Academy represents an opportunity to extend the kind of learning she has supported for 18 years. “There is something powerful about imagining children continuing to grow in an environment where their questions, ideas and individual ways of learning remain valued,” Alfonzo said. “It is truly exciting to think about what this will make possible for children and families in Aventura.” KLA Schools of Aventura is located at 20301 Biscayne Blvd., Aventura, FL 33180. To learn more about the current preschool program or schedule a tour, visit klaschools.com/aventura or call (305) 931-2322. About KLA Schools of Aventura KLA Schools of Aventura is a Reggio Emilia-inspired preschool that has served local children and families since 2010. Its child-centered educational approach supports curiosity, confidence, creativity and independent thinking through meaningful relationships, hands-on investigation and joyful learning experiences. The school currently welcomes children from toddlers through age 4.The post KLA Schools of Aventura Builds on More Than 15 Years of Learning and Community first appeared on Miami's Community News. ...read more read less