About Us
Based in Mesa, Arizona, The Backyard School is an outdoor preschool program created for children ages 3 to 5.
We believe children learn best when they have the space to lead their own play, take risks, and explore at their own pace. Our goal is simple: to spark a lifelong love of learning by challenging and supporting the unique gifts of every child.
Meet Our Founder & Director
Miss Ariel
The Backyard School was born from a commitment to providing high-quality, intentional education for young children. The vision for the school started personally: while searching for a preschool for her own daughter, Ariel looked for a program that prioritized ample outdoor time, child-led learning, and a deep emphasis on family connection.
Finding that these elements are most powerful when combined, Ariel opened The Backyard School to offer Mesa families a truly unique early childhood experience. With an Associate’s, a Bachelor’s, and a Master’s degree currently in progress, she has spent her career learning from some of the most respected environments in the country. Her background includes:
- ✦ Training in RIE and Reggio Emilia-inspired preschools in the Bay Area.
- ✦ Teaching in early childhood programs on the Stanford University campus.
- ✦ Working in both nature-based schools and intimate in-home programs.
Critical Components of The Backyard School
✦ Expert Educators
We invest in highly trained staff, providing them with dedicated time for the observation and documentation that drives our emergent curriculum.
✦ Individualized Attention
We maintain low child-to-teacher ratios to ensure every student receives personalized support and guidance.
✦ Exceptional Learning Materials
Our environment is curated with high-quality, open-ended materials and a fresh, healthy snack menu is prepared daily.
✦ Safety & Standards
Tuition supports the rigorous operational costs of maintaining a fully licensed and regulated program that meets all state safety and quality standards.
