
PRESCHOOL–K
Early Learning

Overview
Early Learning at GEMS
Our Early Learning program encompasses the first few years of the IB Primary Years Program (PYP) and unlocks the innate curiosity and imagination of our learners, placing them firmly on the path toward becoming principled and knowledgeable global citizens.
at a glance

Self-Directed
Our program is designed for students to be self-directed in their learning. They become problem solvers that are learning academic, social, and behavioral skills to use them to develop solutions.
Room for Exploration
In our program, students explore a variety of concepts and content and learn that there is no one single way to do things. We want our Early Learners to grow comfortable expressing themselves and see that learning happens everywhere, not just at school
GEMS World Academy Chicago: Early Education Video
Discover the incredible teaching and learning that takes place inside GEMS preschool through kindergarten classrooms. Our caring teachers create a warm and nurturing environment filled with activities that tap into young learners' innate sense of curiosity.
Experience GEMS in Augmented Reality
Learn MoreThe Primary Years Program in an Early Years Setting
Learn how the PYP in an Early Years setting helps students reach their full potential through stimulating experiences and an acknowledgement that each child is unique.


It’s an honor being a GEMS parent and seeing my son experience the world face-to-face in his education.
We put a lot of time and research into finding the best possible school environment for our daughter, and every day confirms that we made the right choice by choosing GEMS World Academy.
Faculty Spotlight
Preschool Teacher
Joseph Cella
Years at Gems
7
Department
Early Learning Faculty
Passions
Family, friends, teaching, games
Joseph Cella is a head teacher in the GEMS preschool. Before joining GEMS, Joseph had been a prekindergarten teacher for Chicago Public Schools in an International Baccalaureate program. Working in early childhood has been a passion of his since he was young. He grew up in the Chicago area with much younger siblings, and as a result, learned that he had interest in the nurturing and development of young children.
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