HOMESTEAD
ENRICHMENT ACADEMY
Avara Roberts
(925) 783-4074
Located in Three Rivers
A play-based preschool program for ages 3-5, rooted in farm life and nature-inspired learning.
Our school year runs parallel to the Bend-LaPine School District calendar, beginning in September and ending in June. See our school calendar for specific details.
Hours, Tuition & Fees
Hours: 9:00am - 12:00pm
M-F: $720 / month
M / W / F: $432 / month
T / TH: $288 / month
Registration fee: $125 per student
Safe and nurturing environment
Fosters independence, confidence, and curiousity
Low ratios, purposeful learning
Play-based, nature-rich learning on a five acre farm
Children must be 3 years old by September 1, and toileting independently to apply.
HOMESTEAD
ENRICHMENT ACADEMY
About
Teacher
Hi, I’m Avara, the lead teacher at Homestead Enrichment Academy and proud mom of one middle schooler and one high schooler. I hold a Bachelor’s degree from California State University, East Bay, and bring over a decade of experience supporting children and families in educational, community-based, and enrichment settings. Before moving to Bend, I worked in children’s mental health for a nonprofit organization focused on community wellness, creating systemic change in schools and communities, and removing barriers to mental health care for families. Since relocating to Central Oregon, I have served as an aftercare teacher at our children’s Montessori school, directed summer camps on our farm centered around nature and homesteading skills, and most recently helped Camp Fire Central Oregon’s south county afterschool program expand from one school to three—growing from Three Rivers Elementary to include Rosland and La Pine Elementary. In that role, I developed curriculum, oversaw daily programming, and worked closely with children to support their learning and growth.
Environment
Homestead Enrichment Academy is based on our five-acre farm, which is home to Nigerian dwarf goats, kune kune pigs, cats, dogs, several beehives, wild bunnies, and more chickens than we can count! We also have an ever-expanding garden and greenhouse, and love to grow as much of our own produce as possible.Teaching is truly my passion, and I love sharing hands-on experiences in nature and farming with children. These real-life experiences help build confidence, independence, and a strong sense of self-worth, while nurturing curiosity and a deep respect for the natural world. Every day offers new opportunities for learning, and I am grateful to be able to share our space with children and families in our community.
Philosophy
My philosophy of education is rooted in the belief that young children learn best through meaningful relationships, hands-on exploration, and play. I view children as capable, curious learners who thrive in environments that are rich with opportunities for discovery. At Homestead Enrichment Academy, learning is developmentally appropriate and play-based, with a strong emphasis on social-emotional growth, problem-solving, and connection to nature. Through nurturing guidance and everyday experiences—such as caring for animals, tending the garden, engaging in imaginative play, and working together—children develop a lifelong love of learning and a strong foundation for future success. At Homestead Enrichment Academy, we believe in guiding children through positive redirection rather than traditional discipline. When challenges arise, we help children find appropriate alternatives, fostering self-regulation and empathy in a nurturing environment. We warmly welcome all children and families, embracing diversity of race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, background, and family structure- fostering an inclusive, respectful, and nurturing environment where everyone belongs.
Program
Homestead Enrichment Academy is a recorded preschool program through the State of Oregon’s Child Care Licensing Division. Pediatric First Aid certified. CPR certified. Food handlers license. Enrolled in the Central Background Registry (CBR).
HOMESTEAD
ENRICHMENT ACADEMY
Calendar
Holidays & School Closures
Sept. 9, First day of school
Oct. 28 - Nov 4, No School - Oct. Break
Nov. 11, No School - Veteran's Day
Nov. 23-27, No School - Fall Break
Dec. 21-Jan 1, No School - Winter Break
Jan. 18, No School - MLK Jr. Day
Mar. 18-26, No School - Spring Break
May 31, No School - Memorial Day
Jun. 17, Last day of school
HOMESTEAD
ENRICHMENT ACADEMY
Daily Schedule
9:00am - 10:00am
Drop Off & Morning Enrichment
Children arrive and start their day by choosing activities from our learning centers which include practical life, sensory, language, math, and art.
10:00am - 10:30am
Circle
During Circle we sing our welcome song, view the calendar, learn and practice the sound of the week, read, and share.
10:30am - 11:00am
Restroom Break & Snack
The children help set up the classroom for snack time and enjoy the provided snack together.
11:00am - 12:00pm
Outdoor Exploration
The children participate in gardening, animal care, and gross motor play before they are picked up for the day.
Welcome Song
Welcome, welcome, here we are
Learning, growning near and far
Hands to help and hearts to care
Homestead friends are everywhere
HOMESTEAD
ENRICHMENT ACADEMY
Contact Form
Interested in a tour, registration, or would like to learn more? Reach out to us via the contact form below, or by emailing avara@homesteadenrichmentacademy.com.
