Our daughter attended GCA for three years, and it truly shaped her early childhood. Even during COVID, we found the school's communication to be clear and consistent -- we always understood what was expected and never felt left without answers. Merria was approachable through it all, always willing to talk things through directly. The play-based, hands-on approach to learning fostered so much creativity and confidence in our daughter. She made two close friends there she's still connected to, and to this day -- she's 7 now -- she talks fondly about her time at GCA. She still comes back to volunteer during the summers because of how much the place means to her. We were surprised to see a review from Amanda referencing COVID-era policies posted years after the fact. In our own three years there, spanning that same period, we never experienced anything like the communication breakdowns described -- quite the opposite. GCA was consistently one of the most reliable, caring environments we could have asked for. Highly recommend this school to any family looking for a warm, community-centered place for their child to grow. read more

My children attended GCA shortly after the pandemic, and it reminded me of the kind of preschool I attended growing up--a warm, nurturing place with caring staff, where children learn about different cultures and are taught to become kind, compassionate human beings. It is truly an amazing school, and they simply do not make places like this anymore. Once a GCAer, always a GCAer. I was deeply disappointed to see another parent publicly disparaging the school. The post reflects a troubling lack of understanding of Oakland and the longstanding institutions that have held our neighborhoods together. This is exactly why many Oakland natives are wary of people who move into our communities and then publicly tear down the Black-owned businesses and institutions that were here serving families long before they arrived. Criticism is one thing, but attempting to damage a community institution without considering its history, impact, or cultural significance is another. GCA is one of Oakland's longest-standing Black woman-owned preschools. It is a neighborhood institution, and Ms. Merria is an absolute legend. This school has poured love, care, and dedication into generations of Oakland children and deserves to be treated with fairness, respect, and an understanding of what it means to the community. We love this place. read more

My child attended GCA during 2021-2022. While the school has real strengths--warm classrooms and teachers, and a play-based, Reggio Emilia-inspired approach--I ultimately do not recommend it due to inconsistent communication and unclear, unreliable policies. Over time, I experienced repeated issues with follow-through and transparency: promised parent-teacher conferences that were never scheduled, important requests buried in long newsletters, and policies that were communicated reactively rather than proactively and sometimes shifted without warning. The breaking point for me came following a COVID exposure at the school prior to a holiday break. Despite completing isolation beyond public health requirements and providing medical clearance from our pediatrician, the director imposed additional return-to-school requirements without clear explanation that seemed inconsistent with widely adopted public health guidance at the time (about two years into the pandemic). Requests for clarification went unanswered, leaving me uncertain for days about whether my child could return and forcing me to scramble for backup childcare. Although this experience was several years ago, these issues reflected broader operational patterns rather than an isolated incident. GCA may appeal to families drawn to small, family-run childcare, but in my experience, the lack of consistent, professional communication and policies made it difficult to depend on. I've posted reviews for other nearby programs we've attended, which may be helpful for families comparing options. read more

To say that GCA changed our family's life, is an understatement. I've had two kids there over the past six years and there's not a place under the sun that would tell parents to go. It's more than a school, it's a family--- it sets an entire family's foundation. Grace came highly recommended to me and bringing my kids there was one of the greatest decisions I've ever made. We still text the teachers throughout the year to give updates and go back at least once a year for a visit. They are a constant support system when I'm in a bind for care or want to share exciting or challenging news about our family. There really aren't enough words in the English language that can express my gratitude for this place. read more

Our kiddo attended Grace Children's Academy from age 2 to 4, starting just as we moved back to the Bay Area and recently graduating into a local TK program, and we feel incredibly grateful for the beautiful start he had here. It's one of the best decisions we've made for our family. From the moment we met Ms. Merria, it was clear how deeply the teachers care about the kids and who they are as people. Grace's has been a nurturing, calm, and joyful environment where our child could truly grow. Over these two years, he's grown into such a thoughtful, curious, creative, and socially aware little human--qualities we know were deeply nurtured by the GCA team. He learned to express his feelings, show kindness, make friends, and navigate challenges with calm confidence. His sense of fairness, emotional awareness, and joy in learning were all supported and encouraged here. Their approach is grounded in emotional development, creativity, and a deep respect for each kid. No pressure or rush to academics and checklists, but rather meaningful learning through play, nature, movement, art, storytelling, cultures, and connection. The teaching team--Ms. Merria, Ms. Lupe, Ms. Rose, and Ms. Kris--are simply amazing. Their consistency, warmth, and dedication create a stable, loving environment that makes kids feel safe and known. That kind of long-standing team is rare and speaks volumes about the school's leadership and values. It gave our kid a strong sense of security and gave us, as parents, real peace of mind. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts, GCA! We're so grateful to be in community with you. read more

So many wonderful reasons to come to GCA. Here are a few that stand out for us: First, there is a clear value on socio emotional development and respect for a child's inner world. This became particularly important when we had a loss in our family. The teachers gave my daughter individualized attention and reported back on how she was doing everyday. It was a challenging thing to navigate and we are so grateful to have that support during this time. Secondly, I was surprised to see that we had no teacher turnover in the time that we were here. I think that's a big difference compared to other bigger preschools. It is a relief to have that consistency and you can tell the staff are supportive of one another. Ms. Lupe and Ms. Rosabel each has a class and Ms. Merria (and Ms Kris) supports and manages the overall school. The staff care so much about kids and their well being. At the end of the day, that's the thing that matters the most. Lastly, I would say I learned how to be a better parent through GCA. The phrase "gentle parenting" means different things to different people but for me, I didn't have examples of how to set boundaries and rules in a firm but respectful way. Ms. Merria has been working with children for decades so it was such an opportunity to be able to get her guidance and troubleshoot with her. I could think of hundred more pluses - like how they are much "chiller" than other schools but also hold a high level of professionalism... how they encourage kids to share culture and traditions with classmates which has been so sweet to experience... how the classroom itself is warm and inviting, a place you wouldn't mind having out in day after day... how the teachers occasionally take kids to the local library and go on neighborhood walks... how they don't push worksheets but encourage dancing, singing, and play.... We've made some great friends here & the GCA community will always have a special place in our hearts. read more

Grace Children's Academy is such a special place. Both my kids went there, and we couldn't have asked for a better start. The teachers really understand that kids learn best by playing, exploring, and being themselves. The space feels cozy and welcoming, like somewhere you'd actually want to hang out if you were a little kid. It's warm, calm, and full of interesting things to discover. The staff has been there forever, which says a lot. We felt completely at ease dropping our kids off every day, knowing they were in such thoughtful, loving hands. Today was my youngest child's last day before moving on to TK so I wanted to take this moment to say thank you to the Grace team. I have truly cherished having you in our lives these last five years. read more

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 daily visual reports are heartwarming and 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. read more

We were at another daycare but didn't feel it was the right fit for our son, so we switched over to Grace's based on a recommendation. It was the BEST move. Grace's makes you feel like family, and I know they absolutely love my son. He is a spirited kid and they have given him loving boundaries, positive reinforcement, and clearly love him. This is not a fancy daycare but oh my goodness the people caring for the children are extraordinary and I can't recommend Grace's enough. read more

Our daughter attended Grace Children's Academy for about 2 years. Ms. Merria and the rest of the staff are wonderful. They bring a lot of experience to the classroom as well as seek out new ideas and concepts. We appreciated the balance they've found with structured and unstructured play. I always felt comfortable asking questions and they set aside time to communicate our daughter's progress in both formal and informal ways. They certainly found ways to make every child feel appreciated too. The end-of-the-year parties are very touching and impressive when all the "graduates" get to give a speech about their time at GCA. The atmosphere is very open-minded and welcoming to all families. And it's clear that GCA has made a lasting impression on its students, because some of the parents now were previously students and "alumni" still come out to volunteer for the bigger events. I especially loved the optional Parents-Night-Out events, which allowed my wife and I to have a date every once in a while! Our daughter was well-prepared and excited to enter kindergarten because of GCA! Thank you! read more

When my daughter first started preschool, she was coming from spending all of her time with her parents for the first years of her life. Although she was excited, I had a lot of typical fears and anxieties about her being in the care of others for so long. Any fears I had were immediately calmed after the first week when my daughter came home raving about her teachers and everything they had taught her. She took such pride in everything she learned and you could tell how much she loved all of her teachers and friends. I was absolutely blessed with finding Grace Children's Academy and I cannot imagine leaving my daughter with any one else. GCA's teachers are some of the most caring humans I have ever met in my life and they go above and beyond to meet the needs of each child. They are firm but compassionate, They inspire self-awareness within the kids and They are experienced (many old students (now adults) come back to visit GCA regularly and even leave their own children in the care of Ms. Merria) -- These teachers are veteran's in this field and it is very clearly a labor of love for each of them. My daughter is a better human having spent her developmental years at Grace Children's Academy. Oakland is SO lucky to have this gem of a preschool! read more

Ms. Merria and the teachers at Grace Children's Academy are top notch. My kid LOVED going there. The staff prepared my child for kindergarten mentally and emotionally by encouraging her to read and to express herself and nurture her confidence. There are not enough stars available to me via Yelp! read more

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 ! read more

Me and my twins went to visit the daycare and Merria showed interest in my twin girl. She insisted that we schedule a day where the girls could try out the school (which we did). I left my kids for a few hours as advised by Merria to see how well they would do. Merria stated that they were great and she'd love to take them. She would take my children because she wanted more kids of color. We finalized that she would take my twins. A few days later, after her stating that she would keep my twins, she stated that my children couldn't come there because as she was holding one of my children's hands, they almost got hit by a car. She stated that she didn't feel comfortable with them being there as they go on walks and field trips. I stated that's what toddlers do you have to train and teach them from such dangers. She seems to want children to be robots, which they aren't. They are adventurous and excited. She also stated that kids have to bring their own meals. I thought this would be the perfect daycare but I won't bring my children here. Merria is also lying in her response. I did not visit her childcare a year ago. It was actually earlier this year in March 2019 She offered to HELP me with my child that she insisted as a matter of fact after me telling her that I had my child. Merria let my daughter slip away from her. Merria is the reason why my daughter almost got hit. Merria insisted on helping me. As you can see from her reply, she's stating that my child could've died (something she doesn't even know because she's not God) due to her negligence and carelessness from her letting my daughter go. She's attacking my character as a mother and a woman stating that my child would've been dead because I did nothing when I ran after my child. Merria is a liar and she needs to learn that toddlers are going to be toddlers and not know right from wrong. From her nasty response NO PARENT should send their children here. Merria stated that she refuses to provide lunch for the kids because cooking has become overwhelming for her staff. I don't understand how she expects a busy parent to provide meals for their children let alone warm up different meals for each family. Merria also stated that she was tired of having majority of "white kids" and wanted more kids of color. She needs to seek another profession as kids don't seem to be of fit for her anymore. read more

Ms.Merria and her staff are simply the best!! They welcomed our son with opened arms. They provided such a positive environment that allowed him to learn and grow on a daily basis. Grace Children's Academy has set a solid foundation for him, and that makes my heart smile. For many years to come, our family will be forever grateful for this amazing place where we always feel the love and support! read more

Ms Merria and the staff at Grace Children's Academy provide a safe, nurturing environment for children. My twins attended Grace Children's Academy until they left for kindergarten and we loved the school. I am excited to post this review for Grace Children's Academy, Ms. Merria and her fantastic staff. I, without a doubt was Ms. Merria's most difficult parent. I was the inspiration for "Helicopter Parenting". Ms. Merria remained professional, patient and caring through all of my insanity. She demonstrated an unwavering commitment to my children and to ensuring that our family needs were met. I moved my children to 3 preschools before we found Grace Children's Academy. The twins are my only children and my expectations for their education and care are extremely high and at that time, super idealistic and selfish. I reluctantly enrolled my children at Grace and continued to look for their next school. I was sure that I would uncover a reason to move within a couple of weeks. That didn't happen. My children graduated from Grace Children's academy and loved every moment of their experience. Once I knew that my children were happy and growing, I was able to get through the day without stressing about their care. That was such an important thing for me and my career. If it is important to you to have your child educated in an environment that encourages invention, curiosity, critical thinking and social consciousness.... If you require a school environment that will not restrict your child's quest for knowledge and you want appropriate facilitation for his/her natural learning process through individual challenge and collaboration.... Grace Children's Academy is the school for you. Additionally, if you want a school that will: § Promote an environment of mutual respect § Define appropriate developmental expectations § Define challenging learning opportunities § Communicate expectations and provide assessment feedback § Accommodate your child's identity § Encourage your child to respectfully question authority, challenge the status quo, think about issues that impact community, explore with appropriate guidance and take risks § Partner with your family to ensure your child's success in the school Look no more. The care and education that my children received at Grace helped to light the fire and love for learning that lives in them today. I continue to update Ms. Merria regarding my children's success and they look forward to visiting Grace and Ms. Merria whenever we are back in the Bay Area. I am forever grateful for Ms. Merria and her staff. read more

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. read more

The teachers at Grace Children's Academy are the best; I can't compliment them enough! Firm and gentle discipline, compassion, patience, safe and structured learning environment, friendships and quality playtime! Our three children are alumni and we continue to be the biggest fans of Grace CA. read more

Both our boys were part of the Grace family. This is one of the most diverse daycare/pre-school we have come across. Under the guidance of Ms. Merria, the caretakers/teachers teach the children life skills in a structured manner. My kids were always excited to go to their "school" in the morning and when we pick them in the evening, they had only wonderful stories to tell. It is amazing how exceptionally they are able to manage the children in age groups, while developing every child individually. We have seen our boys blossom and be confident for school. Thank you! read more

As long as Ms. Merria is the director of GCA, I will continue to sing its praises. I was fortunate that my parents put me in preschool here many years ago and I've been able to to pop in periodically over the years. In May of this year, Ms. Merria even dropped by my graduation party celebrating the completion of my MA in Organization and Leadership program at USF. Along with my parents, GCA set an exceptional foundation for my love and thirst for knowledge and education. Because of GCA, I was reading "chapter books" in kindergarten, and was able to skip the 1st grade. Literacy is such a keen, significant skill and GCA does this right. After graduating from Oakland public schools, going to UCLA and USF, I am still forever grateful and indebted to Ms. Merria and GCA. I highly recommend this preschool! read more

Would never want my son anywhere else! For the past year the transition my son has made has been amazing! He is beyond ready for kindergarten and it is due in part to the awesome work of his teachers. There well rounded program does not only emphasize academics, but focuses on individuality and aids in allowing each child to focus on their strengths. I recommend GCA with 10 thumbs up! Great foundation for your young child! read more

Both of our children attended Grace Children's Academy. We tried other childcare/schools in the bay area but were frustrated with the lack of sincerity and lack of discipline. The teachers at Grace are loving and firm, setting the boundaries that kids need in order to feel confident and safe. My children loved going to school everyday and had a great respect for their teachers. They constantly came home telling me all about what they learned that day. I am a huge fan of Grace and recommend it to everyone I know. read more

I wouldn't put my kids anywhere else. I am so grateful for the fantastic work they've done.

I could not have found a better place to entrust the education of my three children. The care has been outstanding throughout the years (I enrolled my first child in 1988). Individualized attention, a serene environment and children taught to respect themselves and others. Just a happy, happy place to be. My first child has since graduated from UCLA with a degree in law, my second child graduated from Columbia U with a degree in Education and my third is in India working with Doctors Without Borders. And now I have a grandson there who had a speech delay and within six months, his verbal skills are now on par with his peers. Yes, it is still the same wonderful school it was back in the day (before Yelp). read more