Westcliff Early Learning Academy Brings a First-of-Its-Kind Preschool to Orange County
WELA is redefining early learning by blending Montessori, Reggio Emilia and nature-inspired pedagogies to create a holistic, child-centered education experience. As one of the first preschools in California to integrate these approaches, WELA fosters creativity, curiosity and independence in children from 12 weeks to six years old.
A cornerstone of WELA's mission is its Vietnamese dual-language program. This program enriches cognitive development, enhances cultural awareness and lays the foundation for future multilingual proficiency. Plans are already in place to expand language offerings to French and Mandarin.
'Providing top-tier early childhood education is a significant step in fulfilling Westcliff's mission of lifelong learning,' said Dr. Anthony Lee, president & CEO of Westcliff University. 'At WELA, we believe young children are natural explorers and our role is to nurture their innate curiosity in an environment that fosters discovery, creativity and growth.'
WELA's curriculum is designed to support whole-child development, emphasizing health and wellness through organic materials, nutritious eating habits and movement-based learning. Its nature-inspired approach encourages hands-on exploration, allowing children to develop critical thinking skills through play and observation.
'Children are the most intelligent learners because they are constantly absorbing the world around them,' said Monica Heredia, director of Westcliff Early Learning Academy. 'We are committed to providing an immersive classroom environment where they can thrive academically, socially and emotionally—building a strong foundation for a lifetime of learning.'
Westcliff chose central Irvine for WELA's location due to its proximity to residential neighborhoods, business districts and Westcliff University's main campus—ensuring convenient access for working families. The academy will also benefit from the expertise of early childhood development professionals at Westcliff University's College of Education, whose students will gain hands-on experience through teaching placements at WELA—enhancing the learning environment for both young children and future educators.
Set to officially open in August 2025, WELA will operate Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., offering both half-day and full-day programs with early care and aftercare options.
To RSVP for the grand opening, attend an open house, or join the priority enrollment list, visit www.westcliffearlylearning.com.
About Westcliff Early Learning Academy: Westcliff Early Learning Academy (WELA) is an innovative early childhood education center located in Irvine, Calif., serving children ages 12 weeks to six years old. Designed to nurture the whole child, WELA offers developmentally appropriate programs that emphasize health and wellness, hands-on exploration and social-emotional growth—all rooted in research-backed pedagogies including Montessori, Reggio Emilia and nature-inspired learning. A proud partner of Westcliff University and Westcliff Preparatory Academy, WELA is part of a unified educational pathway that spans from infancy to advanced degrees. Guided by Westcliff University's 30-year legacy in higher education, WELA benefits from the expertise of collegiate faculty and offers student teaching opportunities for Westcliff's College of Education—creating a dynamic learning environment for both young learners and future educators. Learn more at www.westcliffearlylearning.com and follow WELA on Facebook and Instagram.
About Westcliff University: Westcliff University is an innovative global higher education institution with its finger on the pulse of the international business landscape and the needs of today's employers. Founded in 1993 and based in Irvine, Calif., it offers bachelor's, master's and doctorate degrees spanning 20+ areas of study including business, education, technology, nursing, law, computer science and engineering. Westcliff is a California Public Benefit Corporation which affirms its dedication to operating in the best interests of its students and the surrounding community. With more than 7,000 enrolled students, its programs focus on both the hard and soft skills needed to secure quality jobs in high-growth industries. It offers community and business engagement opportunities for the hands-on experience today's students require; and it provides innovative and affordable programs live online and in classrooms across the globe. Visit www.westcliff.edu and www.wsulaw.edu to learn more; and follow Westcliff on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.
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