SHINE Academy, an inclusive learning center in Pudong, and The Nest, a dynamic preschool in Puxi, have combined forces to create a Reggio Emilia flavored, fully inclusive learning experience in Shanghai. The combined group is called The Nest and is located in Puxi.
“Our mission is to bring an inclusive learning model to China and share our learnings with the education system here,” says Julia Burks, SHINE’s Director of Education. “This merger means we take another step forward in our mission.” “We are thrilled at the prospect of working with SHINE Academy,” remarks Helena Xie, The Nest’s Director of Operations. “Their staff bring specific expertise with individualized programs for students. It nicely compliments our own Reggio Emilia based philosophy.”
The Reggio Emilia approach puts the natural development of children, shared relationships and the environment at the center of its philosophy. The experiences of touching, moving, listening, and observing are key components. The inclusion model brings students with extra needs together with typically developing children in a shared classroom setting. Differentiated teaching is a key component and all students benefit through an emphasis on meeting every child’s unique, individual needs.
The Nest preschool was founded by Faust Galluzzo and Helena Xie in 2009. SHINE Academy was founded by Nelson and Quynh Chow (also founders of Olivia’s Place), Michael and Lori Boll, and Fausta Galluzzo in 2012. The Chows and Bolls both have children who attend The Nest.
For more information about The Nest, visit their new web site, www.thenest.asia