Persimmon Early Learning Academy

Our child has been at Persimmon for the past four years, and we couldn’t be more grateful for the experience. It came highly recommended to us as a caring, nurturing school that truly sees and supports the whole child. Persimmon has lived up to that in every way. The sense of community here is really strong. We formed real connections with other families, and during the challenges of the pandemic, that support was invaluable. Every teacher our kid has had has been kind, attentive, and genuinely invested in him. They’ve seen and celebrated him for who he is, which has made all the difference. Preschool with Mr. Bob was a standout experience - his project-based approach to learning brought science, history, art, and early literacy together in such engaging, joyful ways. Every day felt like an adventure, and our child was genuinely excited to go to school (and disappointed when we had to miss a day!). As we head into Kindergarten, we can see how well Persimmon has prepared our kid - not just academically, but socially and emotionally. He’s more confident, curious, and excited to learn than ever before. We’ll always be thankful for this special place, and carry the friendships and community with us as each of the children raised here forges ahead!

Living in Waldo is awesome until you start to consider your school options. I had known a few friends whose kids had gone to Persimmon and had nothing but positive things to say. The place just gives you an overwhelming positive feeling. It was Persimmon or bust for us. And I am so happy we made that decision and got our son into VPK there. Mr. Bob is an utter asset to the community. A complete gem. My kid comes home explaining complex science ideas to me and his creativity knows no bounds. Mr. Bob’s influence has even extended through summer as my son wants to continue lessons and ideas he learned in Mr. Bob’s class. My only problem is that it had to end. But he’s given us a renewed outlook on school and education. I feel confident sending my kid to Persimmon. Bonnie and her staff have truly created a magical and sacred place for the few kids who get to experience it. I wish all kids in Gainesville could experience school like this. It’s wholesome, inclusive, and for the kids. Thank you PELA. I look forward to more magical years.

Persimmon is such a wonderful school with communicative and caring teachers. Our family is so fortunate to have enrolled our two-year old (at the time) in Kacey and Dakota's classroom. We will never forget their nurturing kindness to our little one! Thank you both so much for teaching and caring for them over the last year. Our child has now entered the three-year old classroom with Cody and Summer and has been having such an amazing time, learning new things and building friendships everyday. Our child is truly blossoming here. Thank you to Bonnie, Marissa, and every single aide, and teacher that helps make Persimmon such a welcoming and safe learning environment. We really love what you do!!

I could write a 7 volume, 800 page per book epic poem telling how amazingly awesome Persimmon is, and it would not do them justice. Rational, caring, fun... My daughter is excited to go to school every day and sad when she has to leave. The folks at Persimmon have been a key player in my daughter's development and learning and my family will be eternally grateful to them for thier services. If you are reading this review and looking for an Early Learning school for your kid, get on the waiting list! You'll not regret it.

I am a very picky parent. I have high standards when it comes to my kids safety and learning. My kids have been going to Persimmons for about a year, maybe longer. The location of this small school is off NW 6th st. We travel from Newberry for my kids to go there...that's how highly I think of this school and it's owner, Bonnie. (I work from home so this school is way out of the way...and only met the owner when the kids started going.) My daughter is so much more outgoing since going to Persimmons. Both of my kids love it. They learn so much. Highly recommended.