Our Story
Welcome to Allusio Academy, where our mission is to bring preschool into your home. My name is Siriana, and I am the voice behind this movement.
My Story
In the spring of 2020, like all teachers across the world, I left behind my Pre-K class in New York City, not knowing whether I would return.
We rose to the challenge of virtual learning. I attended webinars on best practices for online learning. I explored how to teach effectively and meaningfully through video. My Pre-K students and I were creative in our lessons and daily provocations. I was amazed by what we accomplished together.
Too soon, our school year ended with a final, graduation Zoom call. We laughed, we sang. (Like every year, I almost cried). We reminisced on our year together and the beautiful classroom culture we’d co-created.
And at the end of the ceremony, none of the children wanted to hang up and say a final goodbye. It was the longest game of “No, you hang up first” ever played by a group of 4- and 5- year olds. It was a simple, special moment in my teaching career.
In that instance, I looked back at my years of training and practice to become a teacher. I wanted to keep sharing my knowledge and experience with new children and families. But looking forward, the world was changing into a place where school was not always the safest option.
I made the heartbreaking choice of leaving preschool in a traditional setting, for the safety of myself and my family.
Teaching Today
Emily of Teaching Saves Lives, a movement that values anti-racist education as a tool to lifting communities, said it best:
“When I became a teacher, my mission was to provide access for students through voice, literature and writing. I believe relentlessly in education and that education can change and transform trajectories and communities.”
I realized teachers and parents are currently facing the same rock and hard place. We want to educate our children as best as we can, but for one reason or another, some of us are unable to step back into the classroom just yet. I heard from parents across the country who were looking for a high-quality education for their child.
Families were asking me to educate their children in ways that were safe and meaningful.
And thus, Allusio Academy was born.
Why Allusio Academy?
To all parents and caregivers out there, trust me—I know your life has been turned upside down. Childcare alone is challenging, demanding, and draining. Now add to that teaching? Oh, boy..
Teaching young children takes expert knowledge, research-based strategies, and a powerful support system. It is a professional industry that requires more than cookie-cutter crafts and frustrating worksheets.
Before becoming a head teacher, I:
studied developmental psychology for four years in undergraduate
pursued a two-year Masters degree in early childhood education from a top university
and student-taught over 150 students in seven classrooms for three years.
And my first year of teaching was still the most challenging experience of my life.
So please, don’t feel disheartened when your home learning doesn’t look as smooth and joyful as what you see on Instagram. I began Allusio Academy to support parents and caregivers in their new role as home educators. Our world is changing. Our roles are merging. Our children need the same love and thoughtfulness as they grow.
Allusio Academy is here to enrich your home. We promise to return back to the classroom when it is safe and welcoming. Until then, we invite you to join Allusio Academy and bring preschool home.
Our Services
Maybe you’re looking to begin homeschooling your preschool child? Maybe you’re working-from-home and want to give your child experiences with an qualified educator? Maybe you want to transform your home into an amazing learning space?
Whatever your need, Allusio Academy is the program for you. We were created by a teacher to support you and your family.
Through Allusio Live, your child will enjoy virtual circle time with a real-time educator. Through Allusio Together, you will receive high-quality guidance and consultations on how to educate your child.
Both programs are four-weeks long. Over the course of a month, we get to know your child and your family. We will personalize learning materials to your needs. Most uniquely, we will empower you with the tools and knowledge to continue your learning beyond Allusio Academy. You and your child become your own experts.