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
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
Fully licensed by the ADHS Bureau of Child Care Licensing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ages does The Backyard School serve?
We serve children ages 3 to 5 years old.
Where are you located?
We are located at 7462 E Olla Ave, Mesa, Arizona 85212 — in the East Valley area of the greater Phoenix metro.
What is tuition?
Full-time enrollment (Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–2:00 PM) is $850 per month. Part-time scheduling is available upon request.
What is your educational approach?
We are inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach — child-led, emergent curriculum delivered primarily outdoors. Children express themselves through words, movement, art, and play in a rich, open-ended environment.
Is The Backyard School licensed?
Yes. We are fully licensed by the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) Bureau of Child Care Licensing, meeting all state standards for safety, staffing, and programming.
What happens during extreme heat or bad weather?
We believe in learning in all weather conditions — but when conditions are truly unmanageable (extreme heat, heavy storms), we transition to our indoor classroom to ensure everyone's comfort and safety.
