Curriculum

At High Hopes, we believe that every child deserves a joyful, inclusive, and developmentally rich early learning experience.

Our in-house curriculum is designed by a multidisciplinary team of early childhood educators, special educators, and pediatric therapists. Grounded in research and responsive to the individual needs of each child, our approach nurtures belonging, curiosity, and growth.

All High Hopes classrooms are designed as inclusive learning communities from the start. We use universal design principles and individualized supports to meet children where they are- and help them take their next steps forward.

Key instructional features include:

Practice-Based Coaching: ongoing support for teachers to refine strategies that promote engagement, communication, and peer interaction
Therapy-Integrated Practices: Occupational, speech, physical, and feeding therapy strategies are embedded into routines and play
Multi-tiered Supports for Social-Emotional Learning: Using the Pyramid Model, we prioritize responsive relationships, predictable routines, and targeted skill building in emotion regulation, friendship skills, and positive social behavior
Flexible Groupings: Whole group, small group, and 1:1 instruction tailored to developmental needs
Culturally Responsive Teaching: Learning experiences reflect the languages, traditions, and identities of our children and families

We view assessment as a tool for connection, reflection, and growth– not comparison. Each child’s development is unique, and our assessment practices honor that.

Our comprehensive approach includes:

Ongoing observation and documentation of developmental progress
Developmentally appropriate checklists and rubrics aligned with Tennessee Early Learning Development Standards
Family-teacher collaboration through regular check-ins and goal setting
Universal developmental screenings and consultation from related service providers
Individualized learning plans (ILPs) for children receiving early intervention or special education services

We use data to inform instruction, guide supports, and celebrate every step of progress.

At High Hopes, we are building the foundation for lifelong learning– one relationship, one experience, and one joyful moment at a time.

Our curriculum is intentionally aligned with the Tennessee Early Learning Developmental Standards (TN-ELDS) and informed by evidence-based practices including the Pyramid Model and developmentally appropriate instructional frameworks. We focus on the whole child- supporting growth across communication, social-emotional development, motor skills, cognition, and adaptive/self-help skills.

Each classroom features:

Monthly themes that connect to children’s lived experiences
Focus vocabulary and embedded language modeling
Multi-sensory, hands-on learning through play, songs, books, and movement
Child-led exploration that taps into individual interests and cultural identities

Teachers use a strength-based lens to create accessible and engaging environments where all children can thrive.

At High Hopes, we believe in the transformative power of inclusion. Inclusion means welcoming all children in the same classroom, regardless of their abilities, backgrounds, or needs. It creates an environment where every child can participate fully, feel valued, and thrive.

In our preschool, we nurture and celebrate each child for who they are. By integrating children with disabilities alongside their peers, we offer a setting that values diversity and fosters acceptance. Our partnership with our pediatric therapy clinic enhances this approach by bringing therapists directly into the classroom for tailored interventions. This ensures that each child receives the support they need right where they learn. We are dedicated to embracing each child’s unique strengths and abilities, empowering them to reach their fullest potential in a rich and varied learning environment.

A smiling High Hopes student on a tricycle

Peer Models

Our preschool offers a unique opportunity for children to thrive in a diverse and supportive environment. Classroom rosters are created intentionally to ensure that each child learns and grows.

Our educational framework is designed to prepare all children for success, providing them with the skills and knowledge they need for future academic achievement.

Beyond academics, our peer models also learn invaluable lessons in empathy and compassion, leadership, and social skills, developing a deeper understanding and appreciation for the differences that make each individual special. Inclusion creates a richer learning experience for all children.

Procare

High Hopes is committed to building meaningful connections to our families.

Procare Solution’s family engagement app immerses parents into their child’s day-to-day activities. From tracking developmental milestones to sharing photos and videos to enabling two-way communication, the Procare childcare mobile app provides information about their child’s day in real-time.

Preschool Hours

School Day Hours: 8:30am - 3:30pm

Before Care (limited availability): 7:30am-8:30am
Aftercare (limited availability): 3:30pm-4:30pm

Contact admissions@highhopesforkids.org or call (615) 667-9338 with any questions regarding our preschool program.

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Admissions

Welcome to High Hopes! We are delighted that you’re interested in exploring how our program can provide your child with a high-quality early childhood learning experience.

Discover how to schedule a tour and apply to our preschool program today.

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