Discovery School of Innovation to add program for 4-year-olds this fall

Discovery School of Innovation will introduce a Reggio Emilia–inspired pre-K4 program for 4-year-old students beginning this fall, according to a news release from the school. The new program will expand early childhood education for families in The Woodlands area and surrounding communities, the release said.

What you need to know

The program is grounded in the Reggio Emilia educational philosophy, which emphasizes child-led exploration, collaboration, creativity and learning through development of meaningful relationships with nature and the environmen, according to the release.

The pre-K4 program will open this fall at Discovery School of Innovation’s new campus, which will open in August. The school was founded in 2020.

What they're saying

“At the heart of the Reggio Emilia philosophy is the belief that children are capable, curious and deeply connected to their environment,” said Melissa Gatlin, assistant professor of early childhood at Sam Houston State University. “This nature-rich learning environment creates a powerful foundation for discovery, creativity and wonder. Families in The Woodlands area are truly fortunate to have access to an educational setting that nurtures both the mind and spirit of every child and represents a meaningful investment in long-term growth and well-being.”

“The early years shape how children see themselves as learners,” said Catherine Sagar, founder and director of Discovery School of Innovation. “Our pre-K4 program is intentionally designed to honor curiosity, encourage questions and place joy at the center of learning. When children feel capable, supported and inspired, deep and meaningful learning follows naturally.”

What's next

Discovery School of Innovation will open a new 6-acre campus in Magnolia this fall, featuring light-filled classrooms, flexible learning spaces, outdoor education environments, sports, and areas for arts, sciences and gatherings, according to the news release. The school will serve grades pre-K4-8, and a high school program will begin in 2027, according to the release. The current location of the school until the Magnolia location opens, is 26206 Oak Ridge Drive, Spring

• Expanding this fall
• 28277 Sweetgum Road, Magnolia
• www.discoverysi.org