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Teacher
Teacher
Maria Rosario Villalobos, Director
My name is Maria Villalobos. I am a wife and mother of two. I’ve spent more than 14 years working in early childhood education, including a long and rewarding career at Garabatos Spanish Preschool in Boise, Idaho—one of the city’s most respected Spanish immersion preschools. When the preschool closed in June 2022, I decided to open my own home childcare program so I could continue providing a warm and educational environment for young children.
With the generous support of Garabatos’s owner, who shared the school’s lesson plans and materials, I was able to establish a program that reflects the same commitment to quality and care that inspired my teaching career.
I hold an active Child Development Associate (CDA) credential from the Council for Professional Recognition, which demonstrates my dedication to maintaining high professional standards in early childhood education. In addition to my classroom experience, I bring a deep understanding of child development and learning that comes from years of hands-on teaching and working closely with families.
Originally from abroad, I moved to the United States at the age of 29. My bilingual and multicultural background enriches my work, allowing me to create an inclusive and engaging environment for children who are learning Spanish and developing a love for language and culture.
I have also raised two wonderful children - one who recently graduated from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and another who is currently a junior at Boise State University.
Our Philosophy
Our Philosophy
We are committed to the principles of the Reggio Emilia philosophy in their educational approach. This philosophy is known for its child-centered and holistic approach to learning. The Reggio Emilia approach is a renowned educational philosophy that values child-led learning, the use of expressive arts, and a strong emphasis on community and collaboration. It views children as capable, resourceful learners.
Let’s break down the key aspects of their educational philosophy:
Safe and Caring Community: Creating a safe and caring community is essential for fostering a positive learning environment. It helps children feel comfortable, nurtured, and ready to explore and learn.
Young Explorers: Encouraging children to be “young explorers” implies an active and curious approach to learning. It emphasizes hands-on exploration, asking questions, and seeking answers.
Learning Through Doing: The concept of “learning through doing” signifies a hands-on, experiential approach to education. It’s about actively engaging with the environment, materials, and experiences to learn and understand concepts.
Invent Through Making: Encouraging children to “invent through making” suggests that they’re empowered to use their creativity and problem-solving skills to construct, design, and invent. This approach values the process of creating and experimenting.
Problem-Solving Through Collaboration: Solving problems by working together is a fundamental skill for both education and life. Collaboration not only helps children develop social skills but also exposes them to diverse perspectives and ideas.
Testimonials
Testimonials
Here are some written comments by former parents at Garabatos Spanish Preschool:
“Rosario, Thank you so much for your time and care for Niko this year. Your patience and kindness is unique and admirable. We are so thankful both our children were shaped by you.”
“Thank you for taking care of our Lucy with love and patience each and every day. We are so grateful to be part of the Garabatos family and also grateful for you!”
“We are so grateful to have found a very special school and such an amazing teacher. We can see the love and care you show for Caroline in how much she loves school and how much she is learning every day.”
“Maestra Rosario, I loved seeing your smile every morning and afternoon. Thanks for taking such good care of Declan. We appreciate your love, support and patience. Thanks for everything!”
“Dear Rosario Muchas Gracias! Olive is learning so much from you- especially the Spanish language. We love seeing your smile every morning. Thank you for caring so much about Olive. We think of you like family!”
“Dear Rosario From the moment Bea and Winnie met you, we saw them trust you and find comfort in you. Your ability to guide and nurture, to redirect and to delight is a profound gift. The love and instruction you have given them shows in stories they come home to tell us. You have been a role model for both of our girls, and I know they will think of you this way throughout their lives. Thank you for all you have given our family, and for all you have done to make Garabatos our home.”
Here are some written comments by former parents at Rosario Spanish Preschool:
"Thank you for another wonderful school year. Tobias has learned a lot and he has really enjoyed his time at school. We are looking forward to another wonderful year."
"Thank you so much for all that you do! Maddi loves going to school and can't wait to return in the fall!"
"Thank you so much for guiding our kids through preschool. The last 4 years have been great and we will miss not seeing you every day!"
Thank you for all that you do to help Jacques learn! You are so special to all of us!"
"Thank you for all the loving care you gave Saoirse this year! She has learned so much and is nearly ready for Kindergarten at Whittier!"
Location
Location
Address: 1910 S Euclid Ave, Boise, ID 83706
Our preschool is located in a quiet neighborhood in Southeast Boise, just off Broadway Avenue. It’s a peaceful and family-friendly area that provides a safe, comfortable, and inviting setting for children to learn and grow.
Our school operates out of a cozy single-family home with a large backyard, giving children plenty of space to explore, play, and learn through hands-on experiences. The outdoor area is one of our favorite places and is perfect for encouraging creativity, physical activity, and imaginative play.
We’re also just a short walk from Manitou Park, a wonderful place for outdoor adventures and nature exploration. We love incorporating park visits into our routine, where children can enjoy fresh air, movement, and meaningful connections with the world around them.
It’s truly the perfect place for children to learn, play, and feel at home
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