Okeechobee County Schools is proud to announce the creation of Pine View Academy, a new early learning center designed to serve VPK students through a hands-on, exploration-based learning model. Pine View Academy will be housed in the building that formerly served as Okeechobee Achievement Academy and is scheduled to open for students in August 2026.
The creation of Pine View Academy marks a major step forward in the district’s approach to early learning. The academy is being developed intentionally around how young children learn best: through play, purposeful exploration, movement, conversation, and meaningful interactions with caring adults. The district’s investment in this facility reflects a long-term commitment to building strong beginnings for every child in Okeechobee County.
During the day, students will experience a learning environment built around curiosity and discovery. Lessons will be delivered through active, engaging routines such as hands-on literacy and math stations, read-alouds and storytelling, sensory play, guided small-group instruction, and collaborative learning opportunities that support child development. Teachers will use exploration-based activities to help students build language, problem-solving, early numeracy, and self-regulation skills that prepare them for success in kindergarten and beyond.
Learning spaces at Pine View Academy will be designed to support a variety of developmentally appropriate experiences, including indoor and outdoor learning, creative expression, and age-appropriate centers that encourage students to ask questions, try new ideas, and learn through doing. Families can also expect a strong home-school partnership, with regular communication and opportunities to support learning at home.
“Early learning is not just important, it is foundational to everything that follows,” said Dylan Tedders, Superintendent of Schools. “Pine View Academy reflects our district’s commitment to prioritizing early learning and investing in the environments and experiences that help our youngest learners thrive. This facility represents a meaningful step forward in how we serve our youngest students, and it is the start of a sustained focus on building strong beginnings for every child in Okeechobee County.”
As part of Okeechobee County Schools, Pine View Academy students will receive transportation services, as well as breakfast and lunch at no charge.
Registration for the 2026-2027 school year opens February 9, 2026. Families are encouraged to apply early, as capacity at the site will be limited.