
Strata Early Learning
DOLORES WAY
DOLORES WAY
Ages Served
Early Learning | 18 months–5 years
Location & Contact
350 Dolores Way
South San Francisco, CA 94080
650.663.4646
Program Hours
Monday - Friday
7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
How Learning Is Designed at Strata Early Learning
Learning at Strata Early Learning is grounded in strong relationships, hands-on experiences, and thoughtful routines. Educators observe closely and design environments that align with how children develop over time.
Learning experiences are designed to build understanding gradually. Children are encouraged to explore ideas, collaborate with peers, and revisit questions as their thinking deepens.
Learning is observed, documented, and extended over time. Families receive insight into how children are growing, thinking, and engaging as learners, not just what they completed in a day.
Supporting Executive Function Development
Executive function skills shape how children learn, adapt, and engage with the world. Research shows these skills develop most rapidly in early childhood and play a critical role in long-term academic success, emotional well-being, and social development.
At Strata Early Learning, executive function development is a core outcome of our program. Educators intentionally design environments and experiences that strengthen these skills through meaningful, hands-on learning.
Executive function includes three foundational skill areas:
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Cognitive Flexibility: The ability to adapt to change, shift perspectives, and approach problems in different ways.
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Working Memory: The ability to hold and use information to plan, organize, and solve problems.
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Self-Regulation: The ability to manage attention, impulses, and emotional responses over time.
Children strengthen these skills as they plan projects, persist through challenges, collaborate with peers, and reflect on their thinking. Educators observe closely, adjust environments intentionally, and provide guidance that supports growth without rushing outcomes.
To support reflection and communication, Strata uses research-informed tools to observe developmental patterns over time and share meaningful insights with families. Technology supports continuity and understanding while keeping learning grounded in relationships, exploration, and professional judgment.
This approach allows children to build strong foundations for learning, confidence, and independence that extend well beyond early childhood.
The Strata Early Learning Experience
Daily routines, hands-on learning, outdoor experiences, and family connection come together to create a supportive and engaging early learning environment.
A Typical Day
A predictable rhythm supports security, focus, and engagement. Each day at Strata Early Learning balances active exploration with moments of rest and reflection. Routines provide consistency, while learning experiences remain responsive to children’s interests, energy levels, and developmental needs.
A typical day includes:
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Arrival and connection
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Open-ended exploration and small-group experiences
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Outdoor learning and movement
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Meals and rest
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Afternoon projects and social play
Schedules vary by classroom and age group and may shift based on weather, special experiences, or children’s needs. Educators adjust thoughtfully while maintaining a steady, supportive structure.
Outdoor Exploration
Outdoor experiences are an essential part of learning at Strata. Our spacious outdoor environment provides opportunities for movement, exploration, and collaboration. Children engage in physical challenges, imaginative play, and environmental observation that support both physical development and executive function skills.
Outdoor learning supports:
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Gross motor development and coordination
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Risk assessment and problem-solving
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Social collaboration and communication
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Curiosity about the natural world
Time outdoors is integrated into the daily rhythm and adjusted to meet children’s needs and interests.
Learning Enviornment
Learning at Strata is designed to grow over time. Educators observe closely and design classroom environments that support exploration, collaboration, and independent thinking. Materials and layouts are intentional, allowing children to engage deeply, make choices, and return to ideas as their understanding develops.
Children engage in learning through:
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Hands-on exploration and inquiry
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Building, designing, and testing ideas
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Creative representation through art and movement
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Conversation and collaboration with peers
Classrooms are organized to support focus, movement, and interaction. Educators adjust materials, space, and routines as children’s interests and needs change, creating an environment that remains responsive and supportive throughout the day.
Family Partnership
Families are essential partners in the learning process. Strata values strong relationships built on trust, communication, and shared understanding. Educators collaborate with families to support each child’s growth over time and provide insight into learning beyond daily logistics.
Family partnership includes:
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Ongoing communication about learning and development
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Documentation that makes thinking and growth visible
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Consistent routines and expectations
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Opportunities to connect throughout the year
Together, families and educators support continuity, confidence, and meaningful learning experiences for children.
MEALS & SNACKS
Nutrition supports learning, growth, and connection.
Meals and snacks are part of the daily rhythm and provide opportunities for social learning. Snacks are served family-style, allowing children to practice sharing, communication, and independence.
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Morning Snack | Provided by Strata
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Lunch | Packed from home to support individual dietary needs
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Afternoon Snack | Provided by Strata

SCHEDULES & TUITION
FULL DAY: 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
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5 DAYS (M-F) | $1,285/month
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3 DAYS (M,W,F) | $1,025/month
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2 DAYS (T,Th) | $770/month
PART DAY: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
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5 DAYS (M-F) | $965/month
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3 DAYS (M,W,F) | $770/month
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2 DAYS (T,Th) | $580/month
EXTENDED CARE: 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
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5 DAYS: $100/month
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Add to any Full Day Schedule
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Limited spaces.
FEES
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Annual Registration Fee: $100
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Annual Program Fee: $25
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Summer Activities Fee: $75 (due in April)
SIBLING DISCOUNTS
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Registration Fee Discount: $25
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Monthly Tuition Discount: $50
TUITION POLICIES
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Tuition is paid via Tuition Auto Pay
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Schedule changes require 30 days’ notice
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Fees are non-refundable and not prorated
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Rates and schedules are subject to change
TEACHING TEAM
Meet the educators who guide learning, build relationships, and support children’s growth at Dolores Way.

Shelley
Center Director
Shelley has been working in Early Childhood Education for over 22 years and has been a director for the last 17. She joined Happy Hall in 2014 and is really enjoying being part of a neighborhood school that has such a strong community. She received her B.A. and Multiple Subject Teaching Credential from Santa Clara University. She has also taken some Early Childhood Education classes from different community colleges in the bay area. In her free time Shelley enjoys taking day trips with her husband and twins as well as watching movies, camping and playing with her dogs.

Alyssa
Teacher
Alyssa graduated from high school in 2021 and is currently enrolled at Skyline College, taking Early Childhood Education classes while working towards her Associate’s degree in Art History. She plans to transfer to a four-year institution, hopefully a state college. Alyssa has previous work experience as a Sales Associate at Hot Topic and spent about 2 ½ years working at Temporary Tot Tending before it was acquired by Happy Hall. She has developed leadership, public speaking, and community skills. In her free time, Alyssa enjoys drawing, watching YouTube and anime, engaging in theatre, solving puzzles, and listening to music.

Esa
Lead Teacher
Esa is currently studying Early Childhood Education. She has valuable experience in early childhood and school-age education, having worked as a Teacher’s Assistant for 2-3-year-olds at Young World Preschool in Daly City and as a School-Age Teacher for 2nd and 3rd graders at Ynez Elementary School, where she provided homework help and enrichment activities. Most recently, Esa served as an after-school teacher at our Lomita Park location. Esa is skilled in classroom management, lesson planning, supervision, and teaching enrichment. In her free time, Esa enjoys writing poetry, exploring her artistic side through drawing and painting, and discovering new music. She also loves watching movies during her downtime.

Darlene
Teacher
Darlene embarked on her career in the child care field in 1989, drawn by the infectious energy of children and their ability to awaken the child within adults. From a young age, Darlene felt a deep-seated calling to teach and provide support to children in any way possible, reflecting a passion for nurturing and guiding young minds through their formative years. Outside of her professional life, Darlene cherishes the moments spent with her loved ones, valuing the strength and joy that come from family and friends. Her commitment to personal growth and learning is evident not only in her career choice but also in her pursuit of higher education. Darlene holds an Associate of Science (AS) degree in Early Childhood Education, an Associate of Arts (AA) in Liberal Studies, and a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Liberal Studies. These academic achievements underscore her dedication to understanding the broad spectrum of human development and education. Darlene's commitment to ensuring a safe and nurturing environment for children is further demonstrated by her CPR and First Aid certifications. These qualifications ensure she is well-prepared to respond to emergencies and uphold the well-being of the children in her care. Throughout her career, Darlene has remained dedicated to the idea that teaching is not just a profession but a way of making a significant difference in the lives of young learners. Her journey reflects a life devoted to education, safety, and the well-being of children, making her a valued member of any educational team.

Kathleen
Lead Teacher
Kathleen has been a dedicated member of the TTT team since 2013, demonstrating her commitment and passion for early childhood education through her varied roles within the organization. Initially, Kathleen balanced her time between the South San Francisco preschool site in the mornings and the Sunset Ridge location in the afternoons until 2015. Her dedication and hard work led to a full-time position at Sunset Ridge, where she continues to contribute her skills and knowledge to the development and growth of young learners. Her educational journey includes comprehensive coursework at Skyline College, where Kathleen has accrued 26 units in Early Childhood Education. This academic pursuit complements her Associate of Science degree in Health Science, illustrating her broad interest in both education and health, and how these fields intersect to support the holistic development of children. Outside of her professional endeavors, Kathleen finds joy and relaxation in spending quality time with her family. Her hobbies include bowling, hiking, sightseeing, and visiting museums, activities that not only offer her personal fulfillment but also inspire her creativity and teaching practices. These interests allow Kathleen to bring a rich variety of experiences and insights into her classroom, benefiting her students in numerous ways. Kathleen is also CPR and First Aid Certified, ensuring she is well-equipped to provide a safe and caring environment for all children under her care. Her qualifications, experience, and personal interests make her a well-rounded educator who is deeply committed to the well-being and education of the children she teaches.

Monica
Teacher
Monica holds a B.S. in Human Development with a concentration in Child Development from Cal State East Bay, as well as an A.S. in Allied Health from Skyline College. She gained valuable experience as an Early Learning Tutor, where she provided additional support to students preparing for kindergarten. In this role, Monica led small groups focused on alphabet knowledge, phonemic awareness, numbers, and language comprehension through interactive games and activities. She also planned lessons that reflected the children’s interests and abilities, ensuring engaging and meaningful learning experiences. As a full-time tutor, Monica had the opportunity to stay with the children throughout the day, participating in daily routines, play, and conversations. This allowed her to build strong, trusting relationships with her students, which she believes are essential for their growth and confidence. Her teaching philosophy centers on creating safe, welcoming environments where children feel comfortable exploring their surroundings, developing new skills, and discovering their unique strengths. In her free time, Monica enjoys spending time with her two Westies, taking them on adventures to new places. She is also passionate about arts and crafts, including painting, sticker-making, and sewing.

Rosa
Lead Teacher
Rosa's journey in the child care field commenced in 1983, a testament to her longstanding commitment and passion for early childhood education. Her initial experience began in Guatemala, where she laid the foundational stones of her career by studying Early Childhood Education, showcasing her dedication to understanding the complexities and joys of teaching young minds. Rosa further solidified her expertise by completing her ECE units at Skyline College, a step that not only enhanced her knowledge but also led to her acquiring a Child Development Associate Teacher permit. In 1996, Rosa joined TTT, where she contributed her skills, knowledge, and passion for nearly three decades, deeply impacting the lives of countless children and families with her dedication and care. Her transition to Happy Hall Schools in 2024 as a Pre-K Teacher marked a new chapter in her professional journey, bringing her extensive experience and enthusiasm to a new community of learners and educators. Rosa's personal interests and hobbies include drawing, dancing, bike riding, and maintaining an active lifestyle by walking and going to the gym. These activities reflect her vibrant spirit and her belief in the importance of a balanced and healthy lifestyle, both for herself and as a role model for her students. Fluent in Spanish, Rosa brings a valuable bilingual skill set to her classroom, enriching the learning environment with cultural diversity and enabling her to connect with a broader range of students and families. Her certifications in CPR and First Aid further underscore her commitment to ensuring a safe and supportive learning environment for all her students. Rosa's journey from Guatemala to Happy Hall Schools embodies her lifelong dedication to education and her unwavering commitment to nurturing the next generation of learners. Her experience, skills, and personal passions make her a cherished member of the Happy Hall Schools community.

Sophie
Teacher
Sophie holds an Associate of Science degree in Early Childhood Development from Skyline College and is currently completing her Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies, expected in Fall 2025. She began her career working for the City of South San Francisco at several preschool sites, where she supported lead teachers in creating curriculum plans, engaging with children, and building strong connections with families to foster a sense of community. After three years with the city’s preschool programs, Sophie transitioned into private nannying, where she has dedicated the past 10 years to providing individualized care for children in positive, enriching, safe, and creative environments. Her extensive experience has allowed her to master the art of tailoring her approach to each child’s unique needs. Sophie’s strengths include open communication with parents, designing engaging lessons, teaching life skills, and bringing joy and positivity to every child she works with. Outside of her professional life, Sophie loves spending time with family, and friends. She enjoys exploring national parks, going on road trips, joining reading clubs with friends.
