# Poised For Success Learning Academy > Private Preschool · Childcare · K–8 Microschool in Garland, Texas. Education Designed for Every Child. Personalized learning that nurtures every child's potential, from infants through 8th grade. ## Contact and hours - Address: 3637 Broadway Blvd, Garland, TX 75043 - Phone: 469-298-3480 - Email: admin@poisedforsuccess.net - Hours: Monday - Friday, 7:00am-5:30pm. Contact for services outside of regular operation hours. - Book a tour: https://cal.com/shaunise-alford-rqghqj/campus-tour (Pick a tour time below. Tours are Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday at 5:30pm and need to be booked at least 24 hours ahead. Each tour is a private 45-minute visit for one family at a time, and you get a confirmation email as soon as you book.) - Website: https://poisedforsuccess.net/ ## At a glance - Ages: infants through 8th grade, one campus - Established 2017 - NAC accredited · Texas Rising Star 4-Star provider · TEFA approved · Cognia candidate school - Founded by educators with doctorates in education ## Our Philosophy Every child deserves an education that inspires curiosity, builds confidence, and prepares them for lifelong success. - **Personalized Learning**: Tailored instruction for every child - **Whole Child Development**: Academic, social, emotional, & physical growth - **Hands On Discovery**: Learning through exploration, creativity, & play - **Real-World Readiness**: Preparing children for lifelong success ## Programs by age ### Infant Program (Ages 0 - 18 Month Olds) *Growing Through Love and Discovery* Our infants build strong foundations through personalized experiences that support cognitive, language, physical, and social-emotional development. Individualized learning plans, play-based exploration, and introductory sign language help nurture early communication and discovery. **Cognitive** - Cause and effect - Curiosity - Problem solving - Creativity **Language** - Awareness of sounds - Vocabulary development - Basic sign language - Everyday communication **Social Emotional** - Developing trust - Attachment - Impulse control - Social interactions **Physical** - Fine motor - Gross motor - Balance & coordination - Body control ### Toddler Program (Ages 18 Month - 2 Year Olds) *Exploring the World One Step at a Time* Our toddler program encourages curiosity through hands-on exploration, language development, movement, and play. Children build confidence, independence, and social skills while learning in a safe, nurturing environment. **Cognitive** - Sorting - Matching - Problem solving - Learning through play **Language** - Talking & naming - New vocabulary - Sign language - Communication **Social Emotional** - Sharing - Following directions - Independence - Playing with others **Physical** - Running - Climbing - Throwing - Fine motor skills ### Preschool Program (Age 3 Year Olds) *Learning Through Curiosity & Creativity* At age three, children become active explorers, creative thinkers, and confident communicators. Our preschool program encourages discovery through hands-on learning, imaginative play, early academics, and meaningful social experiences. Every day is designed to build independence while nurturing a lifelong love of learning. **Cognitive** - Creative thinking - Sensory exploration - Problem solving - Imaginative play **Language** - Vocabulary growth - Early conversations - Colors, shapes, & numbers - Spanish & sign language **Social Emotional** - Friendships - Cooperation - Independence - Self-regulation **Physical** - Running & climbing - Balance & coordination - Fine motor skills - Outdoor play ### Pre-Kindergarten Program (Ages 4-5 Year Olds) *Preparing Confident Learners for Kindergarten* Our Pre-K program prepares children for kindergarten through hands-on learning, literacy, math, science, creative exploration, and social-emotional development. Students build confidence, independence, and problem-solving skills while developing the academic foundation needed for future success. **Cognitive** - Problem solving - Early literacy - Math concepts - Creative thinking **Language** - Reading readiness - Writing & name recognition - Spanish & sign language - Vocabulary development **Social Emotional** - Independence - Cooperation - Self-confidence - Emotional regulation **Physical** - Fine motor skills - Cutting & writing - Balance & coordination - Healthy movement ### Before & After School Program (Ages 5-12 Year Olds) *Learning Beyond the School Day* Our Before & After School Program extends learning beyond the classroom through homework support, leadership development, entrepreneurship, STEAM enrichment, financial literacy, etiquette, and hands-on projects. Students build confidence, responsibility, and real-world skills while enjoying a safe, engaging environment led by experienced educators. **Academic Success** - Homework assistance - Reading support - Math enrichment - Study skills **Leadership** - Etiquette - Character development - Responsibility - Public speaking **Entrepreneurship** - Classroom economy - Financial literacy - Business projects - Money management **Enrichment** - STEAM challenges - Cooking - Creative arts - Hands-on exploration ### Private K-8 Microschool (Kindergarten - 8th Grade) *Personalized Learning & Purposeful Growth* Our K–8 Private Microschool offers families a personalized alternative to traditional public, charter, and large private schools. Students learn in small, multi-age classrooms where instruction is individualized, mastery-based, and designed to help every child thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Instead of teaching to the middle, we teach each student at their own level through hands-on learning, real-world projects, and meaningful relationships that inspire confidence, independence, and a lifelong love of learning **Personalized Learning** - Individualized learning plans - Mastery-based progression - Small class sizes - Multi-age learning **Core Academics** - Reading & writing - Mathematics - Science - Social studies **Innovation & Life Labs** - Project-based learning - Entrepreneurship - STEAM - Real world experiences **Whole Child Development** - Leadership - Social emotional learning - Character education - Collaboration ## Beyond The Classroom ### Transportation We offer dependable and safe transportation to and from school and after-school care. - Before & after-school transportation - Garland ISD school pick-up and drop-off - Homework support after school - Supervised by experienced educators - Safe, reliable, and convenient ### Parents' Night Out Enjoy a well-deserved evening while your child spends the night learning, creating, playing, and making new friends in a safe environment. - Fun evening event with friends - Games and activities - Dinner and snacks - Crafts - Movie night ### Tutoring & Advanced Learning Personalized academic support to help students build confidence and reach their potential. - Reading intervention - Math support - Homework help - STAAR preparation - Gifted enrichment - One-on-one or small group instruction ### Summer & Holiday Camps Year-round fun and enrichment with engaging camps during school breaks. - Summer learning camps - Holiday break camps - STEAM and creative activities - Field trips - Sports and recreation - Safe, nurturing care ## Why Choose Poised For Success Learning Academy? - **Research-Based Learning**: Our programs are designed by experienced educators using developmentally appropriate, research-based teaching practices that help children build strong academic and life skills. - **Whole-Child Development**: We nurture every aspect of a child's growth (academic, social, emotional, physical, and creative) so they develop confidence, character, and independence. - **Individualized Education**: Every child learns differently. We personalize instruction to meet students where they are while helping them reach their highest potential. - **Experienced Educational Leaders**: Founded and led by educators with advanced degrees in education, our leadership combines classroom experience, curriculum expertise, and a passion for child development. - **Strong Family Partnerships**: We believe education is most successful when families and educators work together through open communication, trust, and collaboration. - **Safe & Nurturing Environment**: Our nurturing culture promotes respect, responsibility, kindness, and positive behavior while helping children develop meaningful relationships. - **Preparing Children for Life**: Beyond academics, we teach leadership, communication, problem-solving, creativity, and real-world skills that prepare children for lifelong success. ## Leadership ### Dr. Jessie Pelts, Founder Dr. Jessie Pelts is a lifelong educator and founder of Poised For Success Learning Academy. With more than 20 years of experience in education and school leadership, she is passionate about creating nurturing, high-quality learning environments where every child is empowered to grow academically, socially, and emotionally. **Education** - Doctorate in Education - Master’s in Higher Education - Bachelor’s in Business Administration - Early Childhood Specialist **Professional Expertise** - Texas Certified Educator - PK–12 Special Education - PK–12 ESL Certification - 20+ Years in Education - Early Childhood Leadership **Leadership & Recognition** - Founder & Executive Director - Garland Leadership Graduate - Educational Trainer & Public Speaker - Businesswoman of the Year - Experienced Educational Panelist ### Dr. Shaunise Alford, Founder Dr. Shaunise Alford is an educator, curriculum designer, and educational researcher committed to preparing children for success in school and beyond. Through innovative teaching, entrepreneurship, social-emotional learning, and project-based experiences, she empowers students to become confident learners, critical thinkers, and future leaders. **Education** - Doctorate in Curriculum & Instruction - Master’s in Educational Administration - Bachelor’s in Special Education - Educational Researcher **Professional Expertise** - Texas Principal Certification - EC–6 Generalist - EC–12 Special Education - EC–12 ESL Certification - Curriculum Design & Instruction **Leadership & Recognition** - Founder & Curriculum Director - National & International Presenter - University Instructor Evaluator - Educator of the Year - TAGT Parent Resource Committee ### Charles Pelts, Director of Safety & Community Partnerships With more than 35 years of leadership in law enforcement, investigations, and public safety, Charles Pelts brings a deep commitment to creating safe, welcoming learning environments for children and families. His experience in mentoring, operations, crisis management, and community partnerships helps ensure that every student at Poised For Success learns in a secure environment where they can thrive with confidence. **Education** - Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice - Master Peace Officer (TCOLE) - Crisis Intervention Certified - Mental Health Officer Certified **Professional Expertise** - 35+ Years in Law Enforcement - NBA Security Leadership - Criminal Investigations - Executive Protection - Threat Assessment & Crisis Management **Leadership & Recognition** - Director of Safety & Community Partnerships - Mentor & Leadership Coach - Interim Chief of Police - Nationally Recognized Security Leader - Meritorious Conduct Award Recipient ## Our History Since 2017, we've continued to grow our programs, campus, and educational impact while staying committed to preparing children for lifelong success. - **2017, Our Beginning**: Opened serving 18 months - 12 years - **2018, Program Expansion**: Added Infant Program; Launched Entrepreneurship Program - **2019, Growing Our Campus**: Permanent campus purchased; Texas Rising Star 4/4 Star Rated; Dance & Martial Arts added - **2020, Serving Our Community**: Remained open during COVID; Supported virtual learners; Continued entrepreneurship education - **2021, Global Learning**: Hosted Winter Holidays Around the World Festival - **2022, Growing Through Innovation**: Purchased agricultural property; Added farm education program; Founder Dr. Alford earned Educational Doctorate - **2023, Community Leadership**: Joined Garland Chamber of Commerce - **2024, Educational Excellence**: Founder Dr. Pelts earned Educational Doctorate; Joined Leadership Garland - **2025, A New Chapter**: Launched K-8 Microschool; Cognia Candidate School; Business & Educator of the Year; Joined Garland ISD Leadership - **2026, Excellence Recognized**: NAC Accredited; TEFA Approved; NAACP Garland Entrepreneur Award ## Frequently asked questions ### What ages do you serve? Infants from birth through 8th grade, on one campus in Garland. Programs are Infant (0-18 months), Toddler (18 months-2 years), Preschool (3 years), Pre-Kindergarten (4-5 years), Before & After School (5-12 years), and the Private K-8 Microschool. ### What are your hours? We're open Monday through Friday, 7:00am to 5:30pm. The instructional day runs 8:30am to 3:30pm, so children should arrive by 8:30am. We follow the Garland ISD schedule for bad-weather closings. ### How do I schedule a tour? Book online in the Book a Tour section of this page. Tours are Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday at 5:30pm, private for one family, and about 45 minutes. Book at least 24 hours ahead. For another day or time, call 469-298-3480. ### Can I use TEFA or Child Care Services to pay? Yes. Families can enroll as private pay, with a Texas Education Freedom Account (TEFA), or with Child Care Services (CCS, also called CCA) through Workforce Solutions. Your child's program is the same either way. TEFA covers approved instructional days only, so holiday or non-instructional care may be private pay. Our office can help with eligibility questions. ### Do you pick up from Garland ISD schools? Yes. Our after-school van picks up children ages 5-12 from Garland ISD schools on days GISD is in session and brings them back to the academy. The morning van leaves around 7:15am. Ask the office whether your child's school is on the route. ### Is there a waiting list? Yes. If a program is full, your child can join the waiting list. Siblings of current students get first preference, then families who have completed the interview process. Call the office for current openings. ### How do I enroll? Start with a tour, then complete the enrollment forms. All paperwork, including immunization records or a valid Texas exemption, must be approved before your child's first day. Orientation includes meeting the Director, reviewing policies, and a classroom visit. ### Are you accredited? Yes. We are accredited by the National Accreditation Commission (NAC), are a Texas Rising Star 4-Star provider (the highest rating from the Texas Workforce Commission), are approved for TEFA, and are a Cognia candidate school for our microschool program. ## Educator Training & Services Whether you’re an individual educator, childcare center, or school district, Poised for Success offers professional services designed to strengthen classrooms, improve programs, and support student success. ### For Educators Professional learning opportunities designed to strengthen practice and support educator growth. **Educator Training** - TECPDS-Registered Trainer - TEA-Approved Trainer - Professional Development Workshops - Instructional Strategies - Classroom Management & SEL - Curriculum Implementation - Aligned with State & District Standards - Designed for Teachers & Administrators **CPR/First Aid** - CPR & First Aid Certification - Initial & Renewal Training - Adult, Child & Infant CPR - Hands-On Skills Practice - Individuals, Schools & Childcare Programs - Group & On-Site Training Available ### For Schools & Childcare Centers Customized solutions to improve quality, leadership, and program effectiveness. **Consultation** - Childcare Center Consultation - School & Program Improvement - Curriculum & Instruction Support - Classroom Observations - Leadership Coaching - Licensing & Quality Improvement - Customized Solutions for Your Program **Program Implementation** - New Program Start-Up Support - Curriculum Implementation - Policy & Procedure Development - Classroom Setup & Organization - Staff Training & Coaching - Licensing & Quality Improvement - Customized Implementation Plans ### Curriculum & Educational Resources Research-based curriculum and classroom resources designed for early childhood and K-8 learning. **Curriculum Resource Design** - Custom Curriculum Development - Lesson Plans & Instructional Resources - Scope & Sequence Design - Hands-On Learning Activities - Early Childhood & K–8 Resources - Professional Resource Guides - Customized Solutions for Schools & Childcare Programs ### Additional Professional Services Convenient professional services designed to support individuals, educators, and organizations. **Notary Services** - Notary Public Services - Document Verification - Education & Business Documents - Appointment-Based Services - Reliable & Confidential Assistance - Convenient, Professional Support ## Join Our Team Help Shape the Future, One Child at a Time. We’re always looking for passionate educators and caring professionals who believe every child deserves an exceptional education. Apply: https://poisedforsuccess.net/#jobs ## 2026 Annual Young Entrepreneur Expo Seventeen kidpreneurs, ages six to ten, built a product, designed a flyer, and sold to real customers. - Success, age 6: Success’ Hairbows - Kendrick, age 8: Kendrick’s Feed the Dinosaur Addition Game - River, age 8: River’s Story Creator Kit - Dylan, age 7: Dylan’s Puppets & Book - Kamlak, age 6: Kamlak’s Sun Catchers - Dylanne, age 7: Dylanne’s Flower Pens - Maraki, age 8: Maraki’s Backpack Keychains - Luna, age 6: Luna’s Handmade Occasion Cards - Sky, age 10: Sky’s Pencil Pouches - Ximena, age 9: Ximena’s Paper Squishies - Ximena, age 8: Ximena’s Sun Visors - Oliver, age 6: Oliver’s Yummy Recipes - Alayna, age 6: Alayna’s Homemade Nail Polish - Adam, age 9: Adam’s Handmade Water Bottles - Mikah, age 6: Mikah’s Handpick Fresh Farm Eggs - Mila, age 9: Mila’s Handmade Cards - Zoe, age 6: Zoe’s Keychains ## The Poised Parent Welcome to The Poised Parent, our monthly parent-education publication from Poised For Success Learning Academy. Each month, we’ll explore a topic designed to help families better understand how children learn, grow, and develop. We’ll also take you inside our classrooms to show what learning looks like in action, from our youngest toddlers to our Pre-K, microschool, and after-school scholars. Our goal is simple: to strengthen the connection between home and school while giving families practical information they can use as their children grow. - [Who Are We Raising?](https://poisedforsuccess.net/#read/who-are-we-raising) (09/01/2026): Last Thursday, we gathered for our first Poised Café, a space intentionally created for parents and educators to slow down, talk openly, and think together. - [Growing at Their Own Pace](https://poisedforsuccess.net/#read/growing-at-their-own-pace) (08/01/2026): Every child is growing, learning, and developing every day, but that growth doesn’t always happen at the same pace or in the same way. ## What Families Are Saying > My children have excelled in the areas of both reading and math. The staff at Poised For Success includes both of my children in a very rewarding structure based on their own learning styles. I would recommend Poised For Success because the staff is very patient and they show a genuine interest in both of my children’s learning and success. When my children come to Poised For Success, it is very exciting because the atmosphere is good for them. Thank you Poised For Success for all you do and please continue to do an awesome job. > > Parent of 5 and 8 year old > Poised For Success is different than other preschools I’ve seen because the class sizes are small and my daughter learns more. I would recommend Poised For Success because everything has been great! My daughter loves coming to school everyday and telling me about what she has learned. > > Parent of 3 year old > I love Poised For Success because the directors and after school teachers are certified educators with Doctorates in education. The after school class sizes are small. Each child in the after school program gets individualized and specialized tutoring from a certified teacher. The staff is super friendly and my son absolutely loves it here! > > Teacher and parent of a 7 year old > The staff at Poised For Success are nice good people and the building is clean. I like that they serve nutritious meals and snacks. I would recommend Poised For Success because I see that they care about my kids and treat them so good. I feel like they are in good hands. All three of my kids love going to Poised For Success; they ALWAYS want to go there and they are very happy! Thank you Poised For Success for being there for me. > > Parent of a 4, 5, and 10 year old > My son has never been in childcare before, so this is our first preschool. I would recommend Poised For Success because my son loves it and he comes home in a great mood! > > Parent of a 2 year old > My children are treated like a family member instead of a number in the class line up sheet at Poised For Success. I would recommend Poised For Success because the staff is awesome and caring. Both of my children adore the staff and school. They are happy to arrive and it is hard to get them to depart. Thank you Poised For Success for everything! We are truly blessed to have found y’all. > > Parent of a 9 and 12 year old ## More - Privacy policy: https://poisedforsuccess.net/privacy - Facebook: http://fb.me/poisedkids - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poisedkids - YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@poisedscholars