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For many families, choosing the right kindergarten is one of the most important decisions of early childhood. Kindergarten is more than an academic introduction – it is the foundation of how children learn, how they see themselves, and how they form lasting relationships. A strong kindergarten experience can build confidence, increase social-emotional development, and create routines that set a child up for long-term success.
At Julie Billiart Schools, our kindergarten program is designed to do just that. We don’t view kindergarten as a single school year, but rather as the beginning of a child’s educational journey — one filled with purpose, support, and growth. Specifically designed for children with learning and social differences, JB kindergarten offers a full-day, highly supported program where students learn at their own pace and in the way that works best for them.
A Family’s Journey
For the parents of Jacoby, now a thriving JB first grader, finding the right school once felt impossible. Jacoby was diagnosed with autism at age two. As his family navigated preschool, they quickly realized that most schools, even the ones they hoped would be the perfect fit, weren’t equipped to meet his needs.
Feeling isolated, uncertain, and worried that their son would be misunderstood, the family even considered delaying kindergarten or leaving their jobs to homeschool Jacoby. They feared a school environment might cause him to withdraw, or worse, make him feel different and alone.
Then, one evening – at exactly the moment they felt most discouraged – Jacoby’s parents saw that Julie Billiart Schools was hosting an admissions information session for its newest campus in Brecksville, just minutes from their home. They attended with guarded hope.
What they found was life changing.
Joining the JB family did not just provide an academic setting — it transformed their son’s world. With structured support, individualized learning, and a loving school culture, Jacoby began to flourish. The things on his Individualized Education Program (IEP) that they worried about at the start of the school year, he was achieving within months.
“We have complete trust in everyone there — that they love our son and see him for all the amazing things he is,” his father shared. “That mutual love and empathy are the core of JB. His kindergarten teachers connected with him instantly.”
His mother witnessed another powerful moment during his kindergarten year: Jacoby noticed a friend having a difficult day and walked over to give him a hug. “That’s JB,” she said. “At JB, kindness isn’t just encouraged — it’s expected.”
Jacoby began school unsure and overwhelmed. Today, he is confident, social, and progressing academically. His foundation was strengthened by teachers who understood him, classmates who accepted him, and a school community that nurtured him.
Why JB Kindergarten?
Who We Serve:
Julie Billiart Schools serves K-8 students with a range of learning and social differences. We support children with autism, ADHD, anxiety, dyslexia and dysgraphia, executive function disorders, and other needs that require customized support.
Focused Instruction:
Each kindergarten classroom is led by two licensed intervention specialists who provide individualized, evidence-based instruction. Students receive small group teaching in reading, writing, and math to ensure understanding and confidence at every stage.
Small Classes:
With a maximum student-to-staff ratio of 6:1, children receive close, constant attention. Kindergarten through second grade classes are intentionally capped at 12 students to promote comfort, growth, and relationship-building.
Onsite Therapy and Support:
Students benefit daily from integrated services — including speech and occupational therapy, art and music therapy, and direct support from a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst, Registered Behavior Technician, counselor, and literacy specialist. These services happen throughout the school day, minimizing disruption and creating consistency.
Begindergarten:
Not ready for kindergarten? JB offers a kindergarten-readiness program called Begindergarten for kids who turn five by Sept. 30, 2026. Begindergarten boasts a modified kindergarten curriculum through play-based structure and helps build stamina, form relationships and prepare their kindergarten experience, whether that be at JB or another school. Learn more about Begindergarten HERE.
For children like Jacoby, kindergarten at JB is not simply the first step in school — it is the first step toward a future filled with confidence, community, and success. We are currently accepting applications and Kindergarten screenings for the 2026–27 school year begin in March. To learn more about our admissions process, call 216.716.8318 or visit JulieBilliartSchool.org.