
ORTEGA
Ages Served
2–5 years
Location & Contact
1283 Terra Nova Blvd
Pacifica, CA 94044
650.629.0886
Program Hours
Monday - Friday
7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Why Families Choose Ortega
Ortega offers a focused, thoughtfully structured early learning environment designed to support children during one of the most important periods of brain development.
During the first five years of life, children build the foundations for executive function skills such as focus, working memory, self-regulation, and flexible thinking. At Ortega, daily experiences are intentionally designed to strengthen these skills through guided learning, exploration, and consistent routines.
The program’s smaller size allows educators to build strong relationships with each child, providing individualized support, clear expectations, and a consistent, connected classroom experience.
Children participate in a balanced day that includes hands-on learning, collaborative activities, outdoor exploration, and opportunities for rest and reset. Educators guide children through experiences that encourage curiosity, problem-solving, and growing independence.
Outdoor space supports daily movement, social interaction, and opportunities for children to engage with their environment as part of the learning rhythm.
Snacks are provided daily, while lunch is packed from home to support individual preferences and family routines.
Families who value a close-knit environment, intentional learning, and strong educator-child relationships often find Ortega to be a strong fit.
Programs Offered at Ortega
Daily Rhythm
Each day follows a consistent, thoughtfully designed rhythm that supports how young children learn best, balancing focused learning, movement, and rest. Predictable routines help build focus, self-regulation, and confidence throughout the day.
Schedules may vary slightly based on age, group needs, weather, and ongoing classroom experiences.
7:00 – 9:00 AM | Arrival & Connection
Children are welcomed into a calm, predictable environment where they settle in, connect with educators, and begin their day.
9:00 – 10:30 AM | Morning Guided Learning & Exploration
Structured, hands-on learning experiences build focus, language, and problem-solving through small-group instruction and independent, skill-based work. Collaborative activities are also woven in to encourage curiosity, communication, and deeper thinking, with a mid-morning snack integrated into the routine.
10:30 – 11:30 AM | Outdoor Play & Movement
Time outdoors supports physical development, social interaction, and the regulation needed for sustained learning.
11:30 AM – 12:30 PM | Lunch & Social Connection
Children share a meal together while building independence, communication, and daily life skills.
12:30 – 2:30 PM | Rest & Reset
A consistent, quiet rest period supports emotional regulation, energy recovery, and overall well-being.
2:30 – 4:00 PM | Afternoon Guided Learning & Exploration
Children re-engage in focused learning through a balance of independent work, guided instruction, and collaborative experiences. Educators support critical thinking, creativity, and social learning as ideas are explored together, followed by a structured afternoon snack.
4:00 – 4:45 PM | Outdoor Play & Movement
Additional outdoor time provides movement, fresh air, and continued social development.
4:45 – 6:00 PM | Flexible Pickup & Wind-Down
The day ends in a calm, supported environment with quiet activities that help children transition smoothly from school to home.
Outdoor Exploration

Outdoor experiences play an important role in supporting children’s development.
Children spend time outdoors each day exploring, moving, and engaging with the environment. Outdoor play supports coordination, confidence, and social learning while providing space for children to test ideas and interact with peers.
The outdoor environment at Ortega supports daily movement, group games, and imaginative play within a structured and supervised setting. Outdoor time is intentionally integrated into the day to help children regulate energy, build social connections, and stay engaged in learning.
Meals & Snacks
Nutrition supports both learning and brain development.
Meals and snacks provide opportunities for conversation, social learning, and independence. Children practice serving themselves, communicating with peers, and participating in shared routines.
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Morning Snack | Provided by Strata Learning
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Lunch | Packed from home
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Afternoon Snack | Provided by Strata Learning


Family Events
Families are an important part of the Strata Learning community.
Throughout the year, families are invited to participate in events that celebrate learning and strengthen relationships between children, educators, and families.
These gatherings offer opportunities to connect with the classroom experience and build community with other families.
Schedules & Tuition
FULL DAY | 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
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Preschool | $1,535/month
EXTENDED CARE
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7:00-7:30 AM | $100/month
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5:30-6:00 PM | $100/month
Part-time and flexible schedule options are also available. For information on additional fees, discounts, and tuition subsidies for eligible families, view the complete 2026–2027 Tuition & Fee Schedule.
Meet Our Educators
Meet the educators who guide learning, build relationships, and support children’s growth at Ortega.

Nichole
Center Director
Nichole began her career in early childhood education in 2006 as an aide, a role that sparked her passion for working with children and inspired her to continue her growth in the field. Over the years, she has gained experience as both a teacher and an assistant director, developing strong skills in leadership, curriculum support, and family communication. After a brief hiatus, Nichole returned to the field in 2022 with TTT, and in 2024 she proudly joined Happy Hall Schools, where she continues to make a positive impact on young learners. She is CPR/First Aid certified and values creating a safe, caring, and engaging environment for every child. Nichole is passionate about supporting children’s development and loves being a part of their learning journey. Outside of work, Nichole enjoys spending time with her family, visiting Disneyland, and caring for her horse, activities that reflect her adventurous and nurturing spirit.

Daniele
Lead Teacher
Daniele began her career in early childhood education in 2016 as an aide, a role that sparked her passion for supporting children’s growth and development. Since then, she has continued to expand her experience in the field, taking on new opportunities that strengthened her skills and commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of young learners. In 2024, she proudly joined Happy Hall Schools, bringing with her years of dedication and hands-on experience. She is CPR/First Aid certified and values creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment for every child. Daniele finds joy in knowing she plays a meaningful role in shaping early experiences and fostering a love for learning. Outside of work, Daniele enjoys spending time with her nieces and nephews, baking, and caring for her dogs, which all reflect her warm, creative, and nurturing spirit.

Kate
Teacher
Kate has previously worked with care programs for special needs children, bringing her adaptability and bilingual skills to dynamic work environments. In addition to her childcare experience, Kate holds a cosmetology license and enjoys using her skills to help others feel their best.

Rakel
Teacher
Rakel is currently studying Early Childhood Education at Skyline College. She is passionate about working with children and creating supportive environments where they can learn, explore, and grow. Rakel began her experience working with children through a summer volunteer program called Volunteens, where she developed leadership and classroom management skills while helping organize field trips and activities. She later participated in Outdoor Education as a camp counselor, where she led cabins and large groups of campers while keeping them organized and engaged. Through these experiences, she learned creative and flexible ways to support children and keep activities fun and meaningful. In her free time, Rakel enjoys crocheting, playing musical instruments, practicing and learning American Sign Language (ASL), and spending time with her puppy. She lives by the belief: “The only thing more powerful than hate is love.”
