Parents will soon have a new educational option for their children when the Stratford School’s new campus in Hollywood opens in August on Cahuenga Boulevard.

School administrators, parents and prospective students donned hard hats for a ceremonial ground breaking Tuesday on the new Stratford School campus in Hollywood. (photo by Edwin Folven)

The school, which was founded in 1999 by teacher Sherry Adams in the Silicon Valley city of Danville, is accepting applications for students in preschool through the 5th grade. The school will eventually serve students through the 8th grade. A new grade level will be added each year over the next three years as the 5th graders advance.

Adams said the school’s academic curriculum is rigorous, but they also focus on making learning fun. Stratford School emphasizes individual learning so students can grow intellectually.

“We had a dream to do something different, to create a school where students learned a lot, but also laughed while they learned and moved up the academic ladder,” Adams said. “They learn to think critically and learn to question. We want them to become students with good character. Not just learning, but giving back to the community, and knowing they are part of something greater than themselves.”

Stratford School has 18 campuses in the Bay area, and the Hollywood campus at 1200 N. Cahuenga Blvd. is its first in Southern California. The school is also opening a campus in Pasadena.

“It’s been very exciting,” Adams added. “We have over 5,000 students in the Bay area and more than 900 family members, which are our staff. We have had a good response from people enrolling [in Hollywood], and encourage parents to see what we have to offer.”

Stratford School focuses on English and language development, as well as reading and writing. The school’s STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) curriculum develops analytical skills and encourages students to think alternatively and solve problems. Stratford also focuses on physical education and offers instruction in fine arts and music, which gives students a better understanding of the world around them, Adams said.

“We have a solid academic curriculum that is infused with performing arts, technology and music,” she added. “We sing every day. Studies have proven music is an IQ booster.”

Stratford School’s arts activities also include drawing and painting, arts and crafts, dance and music composition. Students use computers and learn to write code as early as preschool. The curriculum also focuses on foreign language, with instruction in Spanish. Older students are encouraged to participate in leadership projects and community service.

Adams joined Stratford School CEO Shawn Weidmann, teachers and staff members Tuesday for a formal groundbreaking ceremony at the campus. Upgrades are being made to the school’s existing building in anticipation of its opening this summer.

“This is such a fantastic location. We are working to get the school ready for August,” Weidmann added. “I am a parent and I know how difficult it can be to find a school. We need more options for our children and we look forward to working with our community.”

Concepcion Alarcon, who is enrolling her 2-year-old daughter at the school, visited the campus Tuesday. Alarcon, who lives near Wilshire Boulevard and La Brea Avenue, said she chose Stratford School because of its dynamic learning environment.

“We came to the open house and they showed us their program and we really liked it,” Alarcon said. “They talked about how they work with the children and we decided it was the best fit.”

Stratford School offers flexible schedules and tuition plans. Anyone wishing to learn more about Stratford School is urged to call (323)988-9505, or visit www.stratfordschools.com.