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Founders & Staff

Sophia

Sophia

Our school was founded by Sophia Baranov and Julia Baron, two women of European descent looking to create the warm all-inclusive day care with strong preschool program.

In the past, Sophia after receiving Master of Arts in two majors of Education and Music, worked with young children as a piano teacher. Working individually with each child has allowed Sophia to closely observe the young students and see each student’s potential abilities.

When she came to the US, Sophia was surprised to see schoolchildren having problems with reading, even at a middle school and high school level. She understood that pupils who do not have a good grasp on reading, do not have well developed memory, attention, speed, and agility skills.  Sophia started a small family day care in 1991 that gradually became the children’s learning center. Sophia saw how joyous and playful the young children were while exploring, categorizing, recognizing, understanding, while learning. **Sophia has been retired and visits WHCA for celebrations and school events.

Julia had a tremendous share in the development of the programs. After graduating from CSUN Julia completed Early Childhood Education certificate program in teaching and administrative supervision. Having 25 years of education and experience combined, being torn between traditional and Montessori methods of educating young children Julia spent lots of time to create a “Home away from home” where children learn joyfully, excel in academics, social, and artistic areas and are in harmony with themselves and with each other. ‘We have a treasured and still growing collection of letters and photos from former students who found success in all walks of life. Nearly all of them credit their accomplishments to the education and support they received at WHCA’.

Staff

We apply the same rigor in choosing our teachers as any parent would in finding a caretaker for their child. Each one is highly educated in the field of Early Childhood Education. Each one is trained in CPR and First Aid techniques. But we don’t stop there. We encourage every member of the faculty to continue their professional development.

Every child is like a precious flower, and like flowers they don’t simply blossom on their own. They need a nurturing environment and proper care.  Our teachers and assistants  commit themselves enthusiastically to the children, understanding each one’s unique interests and needs.

"We know our children not only by reason
but also by the heart."

– B. Pascal
West Hollywood Children's Academy