About Alerces Spanish Preschool & Kindergarten

Licensed by the Saskatchewan Ministry of Education

Alerces is a Licensed Child Care Centre through the Saskatchewan Ministry of Education, Early Years and Child Care branch. We blend the latest early learning studies, constructivist teaching methodology, and theories of Dewey, Piaget, Vygotsky, Bruner, Hawkins, Gardner, Malaguzzi, Rinaldi, Ferreiro; in a learning environment influenced by the contributions of Montessori, Fröbel, and Steiner which recognized that children have unique needs and capabilities and learn through play and self discovery. 

Alerces teachers follow the "Play and Exploration Early Learning Program Guide" of Saskatchewan, ECERS-R and The New Saskatchewan Curriculum with inquiry approach.

Early Years Learning Philosophy

The Alerces program is based on the Reggio Emilia approach to education where we are always learning through observation of children’s work and needs, combined with a variety of Spanish methodologies to provide the best learning experience for each student in our preschool and kindergarten programs.

We recognize that each child has a personal and unique learning approach, and we are beside them ready to help, guide, encourage and provide motivation to challenge their processes. At Alerces, teachers and parents become children’s co-learners.

• A place where children are actively involved with Saskatoon's community.

• A place with its own identity, where children can be themselves.

• An atmosphere for children to understand the world and relationships that surround them.

• An environment that supports holistic learning.

• A program where children are respected for their feelings, and their desire to belong, to explore, and to take on new challenges.

• A space where children have endless ways and opportunities to express themselves in a prepared learning environment.

• To help children develop concepts, hypotheses, and metaphors.

• An environment where children's  work makes learning visible.

History of Alerces

The idea of “Alerces” was born from Bati McComas & Maru Aguirre’s dream to bring the first Spanish Immersion education program for children to the Saskatoon community, using a completely new and unique approach. Bati (from Argentina) and Maru (from Colombia) joined forces and Alerces Spanish Preschool & Kindergarten opened its doors September 2007 in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, to overwhelming support.

The focus on Spanish language in the classroom contributes to the cultural diversity in our community and supports the rich global culture of Canada. Bati & Maru also share their passions of yoga and the outdoors offering students enriching learning experiences in a playful environment.