As we started our homeschool journey, we were looking for a community where we could feel supported and make lifelong friendships. I was lucky enough to stumble across RootED and instantly felt connections being made. I can't imagine our homeschool journey without their support and all the enrichment they bring to my kids' lives! My kids love all the activities and hands-on learning they do with them! Every instructor puts so much effort and thought into their work, and it shows. They really see each child for who they are, and we are so lucky to be a part of this community. The owners, Shay and Taiya, are absolutely on it! They keep a fun, positive, and safe environment for all of us involved, and it makes such a difference. read more

Rooted Learning Collective - Educational Services Near Me

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RootED has been such a blessing for our family that it's hard to put it into words. When my boys first joined, I hoped they would enjoy being outdoors and have fun learning through nature... but what they've gained here has been so much more than that. They've grown in confidence, kindness and curiosity. I can literally see the joy in them after a day at RootED. They come home happy, proud of what they've learned, and excited to tell me every detail. One thing that has meant the world to us is how safe and supported our boys are here. The owners and staff are always attentive, prepared, and so thoughtful about the kids' well-being. The love, patience, and genuine care they pour into each kid shines through them. You can truly feel how much they care about every child and every family who walks through their doors. My boys have made beautiful friendships and have grown so much. It is a place where kids are encouraged to be exactly who they are. We're just incredibly grateful. RootED has given my boys a home away from home -- a place where they've truly thrived! We feel so lucky to be a part of this community. read more

Initially this group was held at Miller Gardens in Fontana, it was a great location and was a place for parents and children to come and enrich their child's education with activities. What we were told as you can see from the name is that this was a "collective", a place of community. During our time at Miller Gardens a few situations occurred that were red flags with the owner Shay. First, in reference to my daughter who was 4 at the time, is a natural born leader who always would sway other children on the playground or in her group to do things she wanted. Shay told us she was, "going to grow up to be a gang leader". We're Hispanic which I assume she wouldn't say to her Anglo friends. My husband and I were taken a back but we were new to getting to know Shay and shrugged it off to her thinking she was funny but being obviously tone deaf. The owners wanted to change the program about 5 months into enrollment at Miller Gardens. They wanted to make it a drop off program but couldn't find a location. Shay wanted to have it at her house but failed to disclose to parents that she lived next door to a sex offender. She sold us that it was a completely safe space. I share this because this is a common thing with Shay, she spins everything she shares to sell people on the program but it is completely deceptive and dangerous. Half truths are Shay's MO. She makes decisions on a drop of a dime without thinking things through which is dangerous with young children. Rooted learning ended up finding a new home at Pacific Community Center in Upland. It is not the safest and the group meets there twice a week. I didn't trust Shay's word on safety when we were told about the move to Pacific. I decided to give it a chance knowing I would be on the campus with my daughter. While I was volunteering, I was appalled at what I witnessed to which eventually led us to leaving this program. The school is nut free, dairy free, and gluten free to protect two of the children in attendance. One day Shay shared that she forgot and brought dairy yogurt for snack. She laughed about it and told the teachers to keep Laura's kids away from her so they didn't get exposed. I was completely appalled because we were told weekly not to bring anything with dairy because of how dangerous it was but here she is eating yogurt. A yogurt that could have killed or seriously injured them to the extent they were trained on how to use an EpiPen. That was the consistent theme with Shay and Taiya. Rules for thee but not for me. Another thing I often heard while volunteering was Shay complaining about having to take the kids to the restrooms. Shay would always have a snarky comment about a kid if they asked to go during class. She would huff and puff annoyed that she had to take them. It was really sad to see because their instagram looks like such a delightful place and at one point it was but Shay's ways killed the delight in the program. I assume this is why she wanted a drop off program so she didn't have to cleverly hide her snarky attitude when parents were involved in the program. Shay also took it upon herself to punish my child because she wanted to do PE with her best friend. Because my child didn't want to leave her friend, and butt bumped a spot for her friend in line, she made her sit out and watch everyone else. Now, I'm not concerned about children losing out if they're not behaving but what bothers me is that discipline was never ever discussed with parents. When we addressed it with her she ensured us it wouldn't happen again but on our last day our daughter was told to sit out again while I was standing right there. She realized her mistake and said, "I mean if that's ok with you." Shay is not patient and that is my concern. If your child doesn't fit her mold, sit there perfectly, and be quiet they will be targets for Shay. I will say this, Miss Emily, Miss Essy, and Miss Paige were absolutely delightful teachers. They were the reason so many parents stayed in the program. Unfortunately, Shay and Taiya call the shots and they are horrible at decisions. We all felt like we were in a pinball game being tossed around with all the constant changes that were made in their program. Weekly we would get band announcements about a new change, a new location, a new rule, it was too much. We gave them lots of grace in the beginning because they were new to running a business but they didn't learn from their mistakes and feedback fell to deaf ears. I'm honestly so sad to write this review but prospective parents should be made aware of the dangers of Shay and the impulsive immature decisions she makes as an owner. read more

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My daughter has been attending Rooted since its inception when it was first held over at Miller Gardens. The leadership and curriculum are outstanding and the teachers are excellent. This enrichment program has supplemented our efforts to homeschool tremendously not just with the education, but in providing a community of classmates that my daughter has thrived in, which is usually unavailable to most homeschooled kids. The most important thing for me is that it is a safe environment that respects children of all backgrounds and needs. I also appreciate the efforts of the program to keep the lessons outside and in nature as opposed to indoors. I would strongly recommend Rooted for parents looking to support their efforts schooling their children at home. Thank you. read more

As a parent, finding a place where your child is not only educated but truly seen can feel almost impossible--yet that's exactly what we found at this remarkable learning collective. From the moment we first stepped onto the campus, it was clear that children here are embraced as the unique, brilliant individuals they are. There is no one-size-fits-all approach--every child's quirks, interests, learning styles, and developmental needs are not just accommodated, but celebrated. One of my top priorities has always been safety, and this school exceeds expectations in every imaginable way. Every entrance to campus is securely locked throughout the day, and the staff is diligent about maintaining a controlled, attentive environment. I've always felt confident dropping my son off, knowing that his wellbeing is their top concern. Their thoughtfulness extends to health considerations as well--especially allergies. The team is meticulous about cross-contamination, food safety, and ensuring that children with allergies are protected without being made to feel singled out. As a parent of a child with sensitivities, that peace of mind is priceless. The learning model itself is something truly special. Children spend a generous amount of time outdoors, exploring, investigating, and playing in ways that feel joyful and organic while still deeply purposeful. The play-based approach encourages curiosity, independence, and engagement with the world, and I've watched my son grow more confident and inquisitive every single week. The small student-to-teacher ratio within each learning pod is another tremendous benefit. It means that every child receives focused attention, individualized support, and the kind of patient, thoughtful guidance that is simply not possible in a larger classroom. It also fosters genuine connection--my son is not just another name on a roster; he is known, understood, and respected. The teachers and administrators here are extraordinary. Their professional qualifications and years of experience are impressive on their own, but what stands out even more is their integrity, warmth, and authentic care for children. They are mothers themselves, and that lived experience shows in their patience, intuition, and remarkable ability to understand the whole child, not just the student. I have complete trust in their judgment, their skill, and their hearts. I cannot say enough good things about RootED Learning Collective. It is a place where children thrive, where individuality is honored, and where families feel supported and valued. Sending my son here has been one of the best decisions we've ever made, and I trust this community wholeheartedly with his growth, development, and education. If you are looking for a school that blends safety, warmth, exceptional teaching, and a deep respect for childhood--look no further. This is the place. read more

My daughter has been taught by Shay since she was 3 years old, and we couldn't be more grateful for the experience she's had. It has always been such a positive, kind, and encouraging school to be a part of. Not only is she learning important school skills, but also real-life skills that will stay with her forever. She's made lifelong friends, and we've made lifelong memories. One of the things I appreciate most is how genuinely the instructors care for all the kids. They are treated as if they are their own. The environment is supportive, uplifting, and always focused on helping each child grow with confidence, and can be really tailored to each individual child's needs. Safety and communication are also top-notch. The school is always completely locked and secure, and they maintain constant communication with parents and family, which gives us tremendous peace of mind. The children are always given fun learning activities that meet state learning standards. I can't recommend RootED enough. It's truly a special community! read more

As a homeschooling mom of two, I know how hard it can be to find a place that feels both comfortable and genuinely supportive, especially when you're looking for a community to be a part of. Rooted Learning Collective has truly been that for us. From day one, it felt easy. The environment is safe, calm, welcoming, and intentionally child-centered, allowing kids to feel secure enough to be themselves. There's no pressure to conform, just space for kids to grow, connect, and settle in at their own pace. That alone makes such a difference, especially for kids who might take a little time to warm up. One thing I really appreciate is how thoughtful the curriculum is. It's clearly designed with kids in mind, tapping into their natural interests and curiosity while still being genuinely educational. The lessons don't feel rigid or overwhelming, and there's always an outdoor, hands-on component that makes learning feel fun and meaningful. The outdoor setting is such a breath of fresh air (literally). The kids learn through play, exploration, and curiosity, and the social side happens so naturally. Friendships blossom while they're climbing, building, talking, and just being kids. It feels safe, relaxed, and genuinely joyful. If you're homeschooling or simply looking for a place where your child can learn, socialize, and be part of something meaningful, Rooted is a wonderful option. We're really grateful we found it. read more

Rooted has been such a blessing for our little family. I only have good things to say about them. The growth I have seen in my daughter and how she is able to interact with other kids and have such independence. I can't wait to see this school grow and eventually send my son. I would always recommend them the teachers all go above and beyond to make your child feel like they are at home. read more