Business Details
19 Years
experience
Independent Preschool & Elementary School in Davis, CA
Peregrine School was founded in 2007 by Lorie Hammond and Elena Whitcombe with a vision to cultivate lifelong learners through child-centered education. Our independent school serves infants through sixth graders, offering preschool, elementary programs, after-school care, and summer camps. We integrate project-based learning with environmental stewardship, the arts, and social responsibility, guided by Reggio Emilia principles in early childhood education. Small class sizes enable personalized attention, fostering trust and collaboration between teachers, students, and families. Our curriculum emphasizes outdoor learning, scientific exploration, and creative expression, preparing children to become curious, self-motivated global citizens.As a nonprofit, we maintain inclusive admission policies and partner with families to create a supportive community. Professional educators implement evidence-based practices, ensuring safe, engaging environments where children thrive academically and socially. We extend learning beyond classrooms through international service projects and community partnerships. Transparent communication and family involvement remain central to our educational philosophy. Annual events and volunteer opportunities strengthen our commitment to joyful, collaborative learning environments.
Services
Preschool Programs
Elementary School
Summer Camps
After School Care
Community Service Projects
Details
- Year established: 2007
Highlights and features
- We offer Reggio Emilia-inspired early childhood education with project-based elementary curricula
- Our small class sizes enable personalized student-teacher-family collaboration
- Outdoor learning spaces integrate environmental stewardship into daily activities
- Certified educators implement evidence-based child development practices
- Nonprofit status ensures community-focused educational priorities
What people say
Loves them
Excited to go to school
Beautiful playground
Layers of paint on his shirt
Peaceful learning environment
Services
Preschool Programs
Our Reggio Emilia-inspired preschool serves infants through five-year-olds with play-based learning. Certified educators create environments where children explore through hands-on projects, art, and outdoor activities. Daily routines emphasize social-emotional development and environmental awareness in beautiful, nature-integrated spaces.
Elementary School
Project-based curriculum for transitional kindergarten through sixth grade emphasizes critical thinking and interdisciplinary learning. Students engage in science, arts, and community projects while developing academic skills. Small classes allow personalized instruction aligned with state standards and child development research.
Summer Camps
Themed summer camps for ages 2.5 through 12 combine academic enrichment with creative play. Activities include STEM exploration, language learning, gardening, and performing arts. Camps operate in our outdoor classrooms with extended care options for working families.
After School Care
Kestrel Club after-school program offers supervised homework help, enrichment activities, and outdoor play. Additional classes include language instruction, music lessons, and seasonal workshops. Flexible scheduling accommodates family needs with options for regular attendance or drop-in care.
Community Projects
Students participate in local and international service initiatives that build empathy and civic responsibility. Projects include environmental stewardship, food drives, and cultural exchange programs. These experiences connect classroom learning to real-world problem-solving and community engagement.
People
Lorie Hammond
Co-Founder
Lorie Hammond co-founded Peregrine School in 2007 with her daughter Elena Whitcombe. Drawing on decades of educational experience, she established the school's Reggio Emilia-inspired philosophy and commitment to experiential learning in natural environments.
Elena Whitcombe
Co-Founder
Elena Whitcombe co-founded Peregrine School with her mother Lorie Hammond. Combining progressive educational theory with practical implementation, she developed the school's project-based curriculum framework and community partnership initiatives.
Questions
What educational philosophy guides Peregrine School?
We combine Reggio Emilia principles for early childhood with project-based learning for elementary students, emphasizing curiosity-driven exploration and environmental stewardship.
Are scholarships available for tuition assistance?
Yes, we offer scholarships and flexible tuition options to ensure access for families across economic backgrounds.
What summer programs do you offer?
Our themed summer camps for ages 2.5-12 include STEM, arts, language learning, and outdoor education in our garden campus spaces.
How does the school support working families?
We provide extended care from 7:30-8:00 AM and 5:00-5:30 PM, plus flexible enrollment options and after-school programming.
Can community members rent school facilities?
Our outdoor spaces and classrooms are available for rent for educational events, meetings, and celebrations with advance arrangements.
What special programs enhance the curriculum?
We offer Spanish instruction, yoga, gardening programs, and rotating after-school classes including music and language lessons.
