BACK-TO-SCHOOL GUIDE ENRICHMENT

All About Theatre

325 Washington St, Santa Cruz

831.345.6340 allabouttheatre.org

Celebrating 20 years of theater, and over 160 productions in Santa Cruz County. Offering training in the performing arts for children aged (3-6), Youth (6-10), Pre-teen (10-13) & Teens (13-17) and Adults. Our upcoming Fall Season includes three musicals; Disney’s Frozen Jr., You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown and The Addams Family. We will also be offerings training and advancement classes in broadway dance, voice and more. There’s a role for everyone and everyone will leave with skills that they didn’t have when they arrived. We rehearse predominantly at our downtown Santa Cruz. Come be a part of the magic!

Cabrillo Youth Chorus

831.824.4023

Directed by Cheryl Anderson, the Cabrillo Youth Chorus offers a comprehensive vocal music program for children 8-18, providing instruction in musicianship and theory along with exciting performance opportunities.

CYC offers four levels of instruction from beginning to advanced. CYC students sing with the Santa Cruz Symphony and other performing groups, and have performed in Carnegie Hall! Rehearsals take place weekly at Cabrillo College from 4:00-5:30pm; the beginning class meets on Tuesdays, and the intermediate/advanced class on Wednesdays. More information is available online at CabrilloYouthChorus.org, or you can email cyc.staffers@gmail.com.

Cabrillo Youth Strings

6500 Soquel Drive

VAPA5000 Music Building, Aptos

831.479.6101 cabrillo.edu/cabrillo-youth-strings

9-week String Orchestra Program, ages 6-18, begins September 8, with 3 groups: 1) 4th-6th Grade Beginning Strings, 2) Festival Strings (note-readers), 3) Cabrillo Strings (older students with intermediate to advanced levels, and good note reading skills). The program will end with a Concert November 3. For those interested in auditioning, please call (831) 479-6101 for audition materials. You may register on our website or Cabrillo Extension, 479-6331, before the first class. Our 5-Week Chamber Music Program will begin on November 10, concluding with a Recital on December 15. See website for full details, class times, and to register.

City of Santa Cruz Parks and Recreation Department educational, and engaging classes for all ages. Fall registration begins online on August 14. Scholarships for qualifying households are available. Check out our fall lineup of classes and events at santacruzparksandrec.com.

Community Bridges Early Education Division 831.400.1110 communitybridges.org/eed

Community-Based Universal Preschool Programs:

• Fairgrounds: 2667 East Lake Avenue, Watsonville

• Vista Verde: 1936 Freedom Boulevard, Freedom

• Sycamore Street: 121 Sycamore Street, Santa Cruz

• Nuevo Dia: 135 Leibrandt Avenue, Santa Cruz

• Redwood Mountain: 7103 Highway 9, Felton

• Highlands Park: 8500 Highway 9, Ben Lomond

Providing FREE (California State Preschool Program) & tuition-based early education, from the redwood mountains in the San Lorenzo Valley to the vibrant fields of Watsonville. We serve infants through TK with the guidance of highly experienced, bilingual/bicultural staff who understand the importance of play and social-emotional learning as the key foundation for academic success and ignite a love of lifelong learning. We honor the rich cultural backgrounds that have given Santa Cruz County its historical place as a change-making community, with core values to provide access to quality early care and learning to create empowered futures. Together we’re better.

Drawn 2 art Studios

19C Rancho Del Mar Shopping Center, Aptos 831.661.5652 drawn2artclasses.com

Aptos@Drawn2ArtStudios.com

Drawn2Art is devoted to teaching skill-based fundamentals. Students, ages 4-12, teens and adults, begin by using drawing mediums, then move onto painting. Drawn2Art’s philosophy is “creativity follows mastery,” and that a strong foundation of artistic skills will enable students to eventually follow any artistic path they choose. Drawn2Art uses a step-by-step method to build skills. Beginning, intermediate and advanced students no longer experience boredom or frustration, as they are taught from individualized, written programs according to their personal abilities and proficiencies. Join Us for a Trial Art Class. Classes scheduled ahead of time, based on availability.

323 Church Street, Santa Cruz 831.420.5270 santacruzparksandrec.com

Back-to-school is just around the corner and Santa Cruz Parks & Recreation is ready to round out your family’s activity schedule. This fall, we are excited to offer several fun,

“They are helping my daughter with her growth and development. She is always learning new things.”

Community Bridges

Early EducationDivision Parent

First 5 Santa Cruz County 831.465.2217

First5scc.org

First 5 Santa Cruz County promotes the healthy development of children from birth to age 5. Parents and caregivers of newborns can contact First 5 to receive a free “Kit for New Parents” with parenting videos, children’s books, information on caring for babies and local resources. First 5 also offers parenting support through the Triple P – Positive Parenting Program, a world-renowned program that strengthens families by building positive relationships. To find Triple P classes or quick tips, visit triplep.first5scc.org or facebook.com/triplepscc

International Academy of Dance

320 Encinal Street, Santa Cruz 831.466.0458 IADance.com info@IADance.com

Dance For JOY! Classical Ballet - Lyrical - JazzTap - Hip-Hop - Acro ~ Ages 2-Adult Providing world class instruction in an encouraging and supportive community ~ Inspiring students of all ages to develop a lifelong love of dance ~ Honing each individuals artistry, technique, focus and musicality ~ Finding balance, agility, strength and flexibility in dance and in life ~ Generating energy and growth ~ Bringing joy to every class and performance! Determination. Discipline. Perseverance. Resilience. Passion. Come to every class…because you love it! We can’t wait to see you in the studio and on stage!

Jim Booth Swim School

Watsonville indoor pool and coming soon to Toadal fitness

831.722.3500

JimBoothSwimSchool.com

Be a water wonder! From our Little Otters swim class for parents and their babies to Aquaphobics, our adult beginner class, the whole family splashes together at Jim Booth Swim School. Little Otters is a gentle introduction to our 94-degree pools that will make you confident that you are guiding your infant to a happy water experience. Our group lessons emphasize quality swimming in an exciting class taught by our caring, well-qualified teachers. Soon offering a non-competitive swim team to help develop strength, endurance & technique. The whole family can swim at Jim Booth Swim School!

Junebug’s Gym

3910 Portola Drive, Suite 2, Santa Cruz 831.464.BUGS (2847) junebugsgym.com

JuneBug’s Gym is a place where your child can experience a fun-filled adventure in movement. We have a caring, respectful, and supportive staff that encourages every child in their growth of large motor skills and gymnastics along with social, emotional and cognitive development. Our goals for our students are to help them feel control and empowerment in their bodies, to build self-esteem through success, and learn

FUNdamental motor skills. Besides classes for ages crawling-8 yrs old, we also offer birthday parties, Parents Night Out, Open Gyms and camps. Come join the Fun.

Mon Ami Art Studios

245 Sea Ridge Rd, Aptos Monamiartstudios.com

Mon Ami Art Studios, as found in the name, is friendly to all; the growing young artists and the more experienced can find an environment where celebrating one’s own creativity is the priority and will be nurtured. For the child artists, creating a foundation of play and exploratory approach to creativity is supported, each at their own pace and their development. Fall classes are open for enrollment. Check out our fall sessions on our website Monamiartstudios.com

Santa Cruz Gymnastics Center, Inc. 2750 B Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz 831.462.0655 scgym.com

Celebrating 50 years in business, Santa Cruz Gymnastics nurtures children’s exploration of movement, fostering well-rounded development through the synergy of physical and cognitive growth. Our carefully designed classes build strength, flexibility, problemsolving skills, and focus, laying the foundation for future success. From soaring into the foam pit to swinging on the bars, our cutting-edge facility offers thrilling activities that keep kids engaged and eager to learn. With classes for all ages and skill levels, our expert instructors provide personalized attention to help children reach their full potential. Witness your child embrace the joy of gymnastics and unlock their true potential. Join the Santa Cruz Gymnastics family today! Visit our website for the perfect class.

Santa Cruz Public Libraries (SCPL)

Boulder Creek: 13390 West Park Ave, Boulder Creek

Branciforte: 230 Gault St, Santa Cruz

Capitola: 2005 Wharf Rd, Capitola

Downtown: 224 Church St, Santa Cruz

Felton: 6121 Gushee St, Felton

Garfield Park: 705 Woodrow Ave, Santa Cruz

La Selva Beach: 316 Estrella Ave, La Selva Beach

Live Oak: 2380 Portola Dr, Santa Cruz

Scotts Valley: 251 Kings Valley Rd, Scotts Valley

Santa Cruz Public Libraries (SCPL) is your partner for student success. SCPL provides

“My child has never been good at making friends. We’ve been looking for a safe space for them to connect with like-minded peers. This summer they participated in several camps with AAT, as well as a production. We are so grateful. They found that place and their community. “ Sara, All About Theatre parent on-line and in-person educational resources and K-12 homework help. Students can access research databases, take practice tests, check out a laptop or tablet, or join one of our programs (like chess club or the diverse youth meetup). SCPL also provides early literacy resources and educational programs for toddlers and young children. Find a book to share with your child, stop by for a storytime, or check out one of the online resources. Visit SantaCruzPL. org and follow us on social media @santacruzpl.

Seven Directions Creative Learning Center

831.713.9392 sevendirections.org sevendirectionsinfo@gmail.com

Seven Directions is Santa Cruz’s premiere creative center for kids and teens! Offering instruction in various arts, sciences and more in a lively studio with over 30 live exotic animals, we are committed to helping to nurture students’ self esteem, building lasting friendships and empowering them as artists, learners and creative thinkers.

Health

Alison K. Jackson, DDS

Children’s Dentistry

7545 Soquel Dr, Aptos 831.662.2900 santacruzkidsdentist.com

We provide comprehensive dentistry in a caring environment for children of all ages. We are preventive-dentistry oriented and very thorough in our evaluations and consultations. We have a pediatric anesthesiologist on our premises and are able to treat special, challenging children safely and comfortably under a general anesthesia. We have a 24-hour emergency service available for all of our patients.

Schools

Freedom Schoolhouse and Farm freedomschoolhouseandfarm.com

Freedom Schoolhouse and Farm offers a unique program in a beautiful setting. Our curriculum is emergent with a strong emphasis on creating a connection to the natural world. We seek to promote and maintain basic principles of Freedom, with the goal of educating our children to be critical thinkers. Our open classroom creates a warm environment, and we encourage freedom of choice and relationship building. Set on several acres, every day is filled with the beauty of nature, joys of friendship, and fun activities geared toward artistic expression, physical movement, and the development of a lifelong love of learning

Gateway School, K-8 255 Swift Street, Santa Cruz 831.423.0341 ext 302 admissions@gatewaysc.org gatewaysc.org

Gateway School, founded in 1970 is an independent, co-ed day school in Santa Cruz for students in grades Kindergarten through 8th. Children’s innate curiosity and sense of wonder are nurtured daily through exploration, discovery, and hands-on learning. Our graduates have an inquiring spirit, are confident, act with grace and self-possession, and flourish in challenging academic settings. If you’d like to learn more, we invite you to visit our website or schedule a tour to experience all that Gateway has to offer!

Kirby School

425 Encinal Street, Santa Cruz admissions@kirby.org kirby.org

Kirby School is dedicated to nurturing academic excellence and personal growth in each student. With a legacy spanning 30 years, Kirby offers a vibrant and inclusive learning environment for curious and motivated students. Our dedicated faculty and staff make a lasting impact–steadfastly empowering students to explore their passions and design fulfilling lives. Our graduates are poised to prosper in a world that is increasingly complex and dynamic.

Live Oak School District- Child Development

Del Mar Lic #444400352

Green Acres Lic #444403585

Live Oak Lic #440710379

984-5 Bostwick Lane, Santa Cruz 831.462.1116 losd.ca (click on departments and then Extended Learning)

The Live Oak School District- Child Development Program offers families a Free or Low Cost Quality State-Funded Preschool program for 3-4-year-olds at the Del Mar, Green Acres and Live Oak Elementary School sites. We provide morning (8:45-11:45) and afternoon (12:45-3:45) preschool classes. NEW this year, we are offering a Full Day & year round program (7:30-4:30pm). The State’s new higher-income guidelines allow so many more families to qualify. You may come by our office or call us to begin the process for enrollment. If space is still available we enroll year-round.

Mount Madonna School Preschool12th grade 491 Summit Road, Watsonville 408.847.2717

MountMadonnaSchool.org

Mount Madonna School (MMS) provides preschool through grade 12 education emphasizing students’ academic success, creativity and college preparation. The fully accredited program features a Montessoriinfluenced preschool, an elementary and middle school, and a college-preparatory high school with UC-ready graduates. Mount Madonna nurtures students’ curiosity and love of learning, sense of belonging and intellectual inquiry through small class sizes, experiential learning, advanced math, engineering and science curriculum, Spanish, visual and performing arts, and competitive athletics. MMS supports its students in becoming kind, self-aware, and articulate critical thinkers, who are prepared for 21st-century success and can meet challenges with perseverance, creativity and integrity.

Orchard School, K-6

2288 Trout Gulch Road, Aptos

831.688.1074 orchardschoolaptos.org

Orchard School, established over 30 years ago, provides a unique, yet comprehensive K-6 education. At Orchard, we weave together the magic of an extraordinary faculty, a 14-acre campus and a down to earth philosophy that nourishes and honors the natural growth and development of children. Small class sizes, an organic garden and an animal farm create enriching “whole child” learning experiences that are hands-on and individualized. We provide Strong Core Academics, Excellent Science Curriculum, Art, Music, Physical Theater/Circus Arts, Electives, Ceramics, Archery, Swimming, Leadership, Field Trips, Drama Productions, and more.

Rocking Horse Ranch Preschool

Lic #444400117

4134 Fairway Dr, Soquel 831.462.2702

We offer morning, afternoon, and full-day sessions. Our three beautiful acres offer room to explore, including swings, slides, trees to climb, a ninja course, a zipline, a bike track, and a giant sandbox! Kids also enjoy our farm animals and grazing on food from our organic garden and orchards.

Santa Cruz Montessori

Ages 18 months – 14 years

Main Campus (Primary and Elementary)

6230 Soquel Drive, Aptos Winston Campus (Young Children’s Community and Jr. High)

244 Cabrillo College Drive, Soquel 831.476.1646 scms.org

Established in 1964, Santa Cruz Montessori is a non-profit school serving children 18 months to 14 years. Our beautiful classrooms and outdoor environments engage the children’s senses as they learn. Based on a deep understanding of child through adolescent development, our programs meet the interests and needs of our students, engaging and challenging them to do their best. We offer a supportive community of learners and an exciting Montessori curriculum including humanities, math, sciences and arts. Our mission: as a Montessori learning community, we inspire life-long learning and a more peaceful world by nurturing the natural.

Santa Cruz City Schools

Sam Rolens samuelrolens@sccs.net 831.419.2927 sccs.net/enroll

At Santa Cruz City Schools, students find belonging, room to explore & high expectations. In Transitional Kindergarten & Kindergarten, students are welcomed into education with a play-centric, curiosity-driven experience. In Elementary, students learn in classrooms, gardens, kitchens, art studios, and in the field–and in our after-school enrichment programs. In Middle School, we encourage independence and emotional development as students push themselves academically. In High School, we provide countless opportunities: more AP classes, more athletics, more artistic and performance outlets, more leadership opportunities, more community connections and more supports to launch students into their next adventure in college or career excellence.

Santa Cruz Waldorf School, PreK-8 2190 Empire Grade, Santa Cruz 831.425.0519 enrollment@santacruzwaldorf.org

Santa Cruz Waldorf School nurtures the whole human being in every individual, cultivating the capacity of head, heart, and hands. We offer a rich and balanced curriculum in which intellectual and artistic development are both vital and fully integrated. Specialty teachers work alongside class teachers to provide students with diverse experiences in language, movement, music, arts, games, and gardening. Our magical, rural campus is nestled in the redwoods above USCS. Our community is warm and joyful. We are committed to protecting childhood, supporting each individual, respecting nature and all life. Santa Cruz Waldorf School cultivates self-directed, empathetic, and free-thinking individuals with the courage and capacities to serve an ever-evolving humanity.

Simcha Preschool

Lic #440710119

3055 Porter Gulch Road, Aptos 831.479.3449 caitlin@tbeaptos.org simchapreschool.org

Come experience our thriving, nurturing, playbased program that features an emergent, anti-bias curriculum tailored to your children’s passions and interests! Simcha (meaning “joy” in Hebrew) Preschool is known for its dedicated and knowledgeable teachers who foster children’s social emotional skills, independence, and creative ideas. Everyone loves our beautiful outdoor and indoor facilities. Thank you for voting us Best Preschool Runner Up in 2023! Fullday and half-day schedules, low child/teacher ratios, and 3, 4 or 5-day schedules are offered for children ages 2-5. Welcoming to all, we are proud of our over 40-year tradition of sharing Jewish values. Come join our Simcha Preschool family! Open year-round, 7:30am-5:20pm. Call 831.479.3449 or email Director Caitlin Clancy at caitlin@tbeaptos.org to learn more!

Tara Redwood School

5810 Prescott Road, Soquel 831.462.9632 office@tararedwoodschool.org tararedwoodschool.org

Since 1989, Tara Redwood School has been empowering children to make a positive difference in the world by educating the heart & mind with mindfulness practices. Our curriculum is an integration of Tara’s signature pedagogy Creating Compassionate Cultures (CCC) and Montessori methodology academics. We offer a strong focus on global studies, sciences, hands-on earth ecology studies, creative arts, social emotional learning and compassion in action. Preschool 2 – 5 years and Elementary ages 6–11. Classes are multiage with a low student to teacher ratio. We provide small classroom spaces for our students and educators. Classes are situated both outdoor & indoor on 108 acres of lush forest.