Beyond Pre-K in Spanish, a beloved Spanish immersion preschool in Culver City, is proudly marking more than 22 years of nurturing young learners and serving local families. As the 2025-26 school year draws to a close, the program is celebrating the growth of its students and preparing for a heartfelt end-of-year celebration on Thursday, June 11.
The preschool community recently came together for a vibrant Mother’s Day event where all the children performed dances alongside their parents. The celebration was a huge hit, filled with joy, cultural pride, and beautiful family connections.
Earlier this spring, families enjoyed the annual Open House at Culver West-Alexander Park. Visitors toured classrooms, met dedicated teachers, and viewed student projects that showcased the school’s hands-on, multi-sensory approach to early childhood education. A memorable highlight was an Earth Day activity led by a group of former students, now 14-year-old Girl Scouts, who returned to lead an interactive Spanish-language lesson on recycling and environmental responsibility.
“Seeing our former students return as confident leaders and role models is incredibly meaningful,” said Director Vera Chang. “It shows how early exposure to language and values like responsibility and service can stay with children as they grow.”
Founded more than two decades ago, Beyond Pre-K in Spanish prepares children ages 3 to 5 for success in elementary school and beyond. The program emphasizes Spanish language development, self-regulation, communication skills, and cultural awareness through play-based and experimental learning.
Longtime teacher Norma Sanchez, with over 20 years of experience in the Westside early education community, continues to enrich the program with her deep love for teaching. Chang, co-founder and ambassador, has shaped the heart and culture of the school from the beginning. She will begin stepping back from full-time responsibilities this year but will remain actively involved as a substitute and mentor teacher, sharing her wisdom and passion with students and staff.
The school’s enrichment program is led by dedicated instructors from Do Re Mi Music School (founded by Dragana Rodriguez), along with Reggie Welch (Physical Education), Ms. Caroline Antunes (Music and Movement, ballet, and Pilates), and Alan Gurrola (Folkloric dance). Together, they bring music, movement, fitness, and creative expression to the daily life at the school.
Located at Culver West-Alexander Park, Beyond Pre-K in Spanish supports families as children transition into local Spanish immersion elementary programs, including El Marino Language School and La Ballona Elementary.
Enrollment for the upcoming 2026-27 school year and summer programs is currently open. The school is excited to welcome new teachers Mindy LaVergne Morales, Alan Gurrola, and substitute teacher Isela Arsand, whose experience and fresh ideas will continue to strengthen the program.
For more information families can visit the school’s website or contact Beyond Pre-K in Spanish directly. 4162 Wade Street, Culver City, CA 90230 (Culver West-Alexander Park) Email: beyondpk@gmail.com. Website: beyondpk.wixsite.com/website