Grace Children's Academy - Oakland, California

alaleh R.

We truly can’t express how lucky we feel to have stumbled upon GCA right after moving to the neighborhood. It felt like fate. From the very first moment I met Ms. Merria, the principal, I knew in my heart that this was the right place for our family. Her warmth and calm presence were instantly reassuring.

Coming out of the uncertainties of COVID, GCA’s peaceful, nurturing environment helped my son adjust with such ease—it felt natural for him to settle in and begin making friends. I had visited several preschools in Albany and Berkeley, but none of them quite matched what we were hoping for. GCA stood out because of its focus on relationships and emotional growth, not just structured education or toys. The emphasis on gentle, nature-inspired play and meaningful connections mirrored exactly what we envisioned for our children.

Ms. Merria patiently welcomed us, showed us around, and something just clicked. Over the past four years, she became our anchor—always there during the more stressful moments, offering support and steadiness.

When it was my daughter’s turn, she followed in her brother’s footsteps with the same smooth transition. Like so many other families, we felt embraced by a community that truly felt like one big, loving family. Everything was just right—no stress, no pressure, just trust and care.

Watching both of my kids grow at GCA, learning, playing, and connecting with others, has been a joy. We’ve always felt seen and supported. Their annual reports are thoughtful and detailed, full of insights into how our children are growing and where they’re headed. The teachers—Ms. Lupe, Ms. Chris, Ms. Rose—are simply incredible. Their kindness, patience, and genuine love for the kids shine through in everything they do. They’re laying the foundation for a lifetime of confidence and compassion.

We are deeply grateful for this place, and for every heart that has guided and cared for our children. From the bottom of our hearts—thank you. We couldn’t recommend GCA more.

Christine H.

I can't say enough good things about Ms. Merria and her team at GCA. This is truly a fantastic preschool! One of my favorite things about Ms.Merria is she believes the importance of teaching empathy and compassion to children. My son is kind, inclusive and generous when he plays with other children and I know this is because of his teachers. She is making the world a better place. I'm thankful to be part of the GCA family!

Caitlin M.

Our son has been attending GCA for nearly a year now, and we couldn't be happier! At the end of the day, he leaves school reluctantly and comes home eager to share about his experiences. The staff is so loving and considers the strengths and needs of each child as an individual to help them grow. We feel grateful to be part of the GCA community during this important time in our child's development, and can't wait for our second child's turn to attend!

Neville

This school is the kind of place you want to send your kids. Ms Merria and her team not only foster a supportive and nurturing environment tailored to each child's development and inherent nature, but their approach to teaching children about morals, values, society, conservation, diversity and inclusion is superior to any other school we have come across or heard about. Their fee structure is also very affordable, and no other schools can come close to providing the same value they offer. If you are looking for a great preschool in Emeryville or North Oakland, look no further than Grace Children's Academy.

Taylor M. M.

Took two months to even schedule a call with Ms. Merria and after scheduling a tour was told on the day of that no appointment exist and I should try again next month.

Tor U.

Our son and daughter, Zeia and Tyce, both attended Grace Children's Academy until they reached Kindergarten, and we can't speak highly enough about it. There's a curriculum that prepares the kids well for grade school, but also encourages play, discovery, and collaboration. They take field trips (e.g. Lawrence Hall of Science and the library) and go to parks (including the Temescal Creek Park that's right next door). The parent community is warm and connected. The graduation ceremonies are incredibly meaningful and well thought-out. Most importantly, Ms. Merria and her staff are simply the best. Their kindness and thoughtfulness infuses everything. I had friends with kids in other (more expensive) pre-schools complain about bullying or problems between kids. Thankfully, GCA's encouragement of the childrens' social development (and consideration for others) makes for a really peaceful and loving environment that enables the kids to flourish. As a family, we feel so grateful for our time with GCA. The wonderful thing is: it hasn't ended. Ms. Merria encourages Zeia and Tyce to come back and visit. She loves them. We love her. And that's the best part.

Ramona T.

Grace Children's Academy is a wonderful place for children to grow, learn and experience hands on interactions and engagement. As a pervious parent an educator I would highly recommend GCA. Grace is not only a preschool but an environment that creates Culture Shifters for our future.

When children are able to be immersed in learning, research has shown that their critical thinking, language and literacy, STEM and social emotional development evolves.

When teachers are able to captivate children through story telling, and then use loose parts (Reggio Emilio experiences) a deeper FUN exciting understanding of the concepts unfolds. This is a glimpse of what the experience is like at GCA.

GCA focuses on each child as an individual and strives to meet each child where they are. They create everyday experiences that provokes curiosity, exploration and discovery not mention they genuinely care and its shown through their relationships, positive affect with all children and families. If had more children, I definitely would send them to this hidden treasure.

Mari K.

Ms. Merria is the best!! Our Son said today was the BEST day ever! We thank Ms. Merria for everything, she has made a tremendous impact on my family through establishing a powerful foundation. We are so grateful for the major position she has played in all my childrens lives. We need more people like her in this world. We owe her the world ! ❤️