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Microschool Founder
Hi, I’m Amanda Simmons-Polanco, the Founder and Head of School at Vida Academy. With nearly 15 years of experience in education, I’ve dedicated my career to creating meaningful, student-centered learning environments. I started as a teacher in New York City, where I taught Kindergarten, 2nd, and 5th grade, and later had the opportunity to serve as the founding Principal at an elementary school in Manhattan. These experiences deepened my belief in every child’s ability to succeed when supported by personalized and innovative approaches.
As a bilingual speaker of English and Spanish, my passion for bilingual education is both professional and personal. I was inspired to create Vida Academy not only to fill a gap in our community but also to provide my own children with an environment where they can thrive as bilingual learners. My vision for Vida Academy is to combine academic excellence, cultural awareness, and hands-on exploration in a nurturing space where every child feels valued and empowered.
4 Reviews on “Vida Academy”
Olivia Defibaugh
Two of my children attend Vida Academy in the first grade and kindergarten class. I love the kind community, low student to teacher ratios, and the excellent education they are receiving.
Danny
Very happy with the development of our daughter within the short period of time that she has been there. She started with small Spanish words and no we are doing small sentences, her wanting to read more and wanting to learn more has us very excited. We are in love with the curriculum, love the four days a week as well. The environment for the kids is a large yard for outdoor learning. The hands on activities are amazing for the kid’s development I am all in with Vida Academy can’t wait to see my daughter grow these next years with Vida Academy.
idania
I’m very happy to have enrilled my son in Vida Academy. The education is personalized, in addition of academics, children are taught about culture, values, they are raising strong children with the ability to master two lenguages.
Katie
My son attends Vida Academy and we have been so happy with the individualized learning and sense of community. The teachers truly care about each child. My son has grown so much in the past few months and I can’t wait to see his continued growth. We are so happy we found Vida!