Play. Learn. Wonder.
SUMMER CAMP 2026!
Play. Learn. Wonder.
At Willow & Wonder Academy, we believe childhood is meant to be treasured, curiosity is meant to be nurtured, and learning is meant to be joyful.
Located in North Peoria, Willow & Wonder is a play-based microschool and homeschool hybrid serving children ages 4–10*. Here, children are deeply known, meaningful relationships are prioritized, and learning unfolds through wonder, exploration, creativity, and hands-on discovery.
Our approach is rooted in the Reggio Emilia philosophy, thoughtfully incorporating elements of Montessori, Waldorf, and Charlotte Mason to support the whole child. Through rich experiences that foster academic, social-emotional, creative, physical, and personal growth, we empower children to become confident, capable learners who love to learn.
At home, families are free to follow their own rhythm, whether that means pursuing a formal homeschool curriculum or embracing child-led learning through everyday experiences, play, and exploration. We believe learning extends far beyond the classroom and that meaningful family connection remains at the heart of a child's educational journey.
*Each year, we thoughtfully extend our age range by one year to allow our current students to continue growing with us.
W - Wholeness
Emphasize the importance of nurturing the whole child- cognitively, emotionally, socially, and physically, so that they can grow and thrive in all aspects of their development.
O - Ownership
Empower children to take responsibility for their own learning and actions, fostering integrity, leadership, and a love of learning as they take pride in their growth and discoveries.
N - Nurturing
Create a safe and supportive space where every child feels loved, valued, and inspired to show kindness and care for others.
D - Discovery
Foster a passion for learning through hands-on, curiosity-driven experiences that encourage children to explore the world around them and develop their unique gifts and talents.
E - Empathy
Encourage understanding and compassion, guiding children to develop a heart for others and a desire to bring light to those around them.
R - Resilience
Guide children to adapt, bounce back from setbacks, and approach new challenges with confidence, hope, and the belief that every obstacle is an opportunity to grow and shine.
Miss Brandi
I am an Arizona native, born and raised here in the West Valley. My husband and I met in high school, and together we have three sweet boys who surely keep our hands full, but most importantly, our hearts. Becoming a mother has only strengthened my belief that childhood is something to be treasured, not rushed, and that learning is most meaningful when it grows from curiosity, connection, and joy.
My love for teaching began early as a child when I would run classes of my own while playing "school" with my little sister. From then on, the seed was planted, and my passion for learning and teaching continued to grow throughout my school years.
Over the last 14 years, I have had the opportunity to work with children in a variety of settings and ability levels, including one-on-one, small group, and full classroom environments. My professional experience began in Italy, where I taught English as a Second Language to primary-aged children, an experience I will never forget. I hold a dual certification in Elementary Education and Special Education, along with an ESL (English as a Second Language) endorsement. I am also CPR/First Aid certified and hold a current Arizona IVP Fingerprint Clearance Card.
Throughout my years in education, especially as a special education teacher, I discovered that meaningful learning begins with connection. Some of the most powerful growth happened when children felt truly known, understood, and supported as individuals. Working closely with students and families showed me the value of building relationships first, honoring each child's unique strengths, and creating learning experiences that meet children where they are.
Those experiences helped shape the vision for Willow & Wonder. Over the years, I witnessed something beautiful time and time again: when children feel safe, known, and genuinely connected to the people around them, learning unfolds naturally. Curiosity grows, confidence blossoms, and children become willing to take on challenges they may have once avoided.
I wanted to create the kind of learning environment where childhood is honored, curiosity is celebrated, and every child is deeply known. A place where meaningful relationships lay the foundation for learning, where wonder sparks discovery, and where children are given the time, space, and support to grow into confident, capable learners.
My hope is that every child who walks through our doors feels safe, valued, and inspired to develop a lifelong love of learning. I am so excited to partner with families, nurture each child's natural curiosity, and help cultivate joyful learning experiences that will stay with them for years to come.
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