Unlock Your Child’s Unique Potential Through Individualized Learning

Half-Day Preschool in Ann Arbor

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Upcoming Events- January and February 2026

Open House - Saturday, Jan 17, 2026

Come see how intentional teaching, thoughtful environments, and strong partnerships with families create a joyful place where children thrive!
1:00 am -12:00 pm OR 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm

Register at Eventbrite

 

Ann Arbor Preschool Expo, Sunday, Jan 25, 2026

Connect with us at the annual preschool expo in Ann Arbor.

 

Open House - Saturday, Feb 21, 2026

1:00 am -12:00 pm OR 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm

Register at Eventbrite

 

Community Enrollment opens for 2026-27, Saturday, February 7, 2026

Pre-register now to get priority enrollment for Fall 2026.

 

Booking Private Tours - any time at your convenience

We invite you to book a private tour today to experience a truly special place for your preschooler! We are so excited to be able to share this labor of love with your family.

Our Mission & Purpose

Why Ivybrook Academy

At Ivybrook Academy, we are committed to providing an innovative and nurturing environment where children ages 18 months to 6 years can thrive. Our mission is to blend proven educational philosophies, fostering a love of learning while supporting each child’s unique capabilities. We prepare our students for school and life by nurturing their academic, social, and emotional development.

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Ivybrook How

How We Nurture Young Minds

At Ivybrook Academy, we celebrate each child's unique capabilities through our engaging curriculum. Our innovative approach empowers children to explore, discover, and learn in a supportive environment, fostering a lifelong love of learning.

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Inspiring Learning Spaces

Our thoughtfully designed classrooms provide a warm and inviting environment that stimulates creativity and exploration, tailored to foster growth in every child.

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Explore Our Curriculum

Innovative Curriculum Design

We integrate the best practices from Reggio Emilia and Montessori approaches into a unique half-day curriculum that meets each child’s needs and interests.

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Discover Our Philosophy

Personalized Learning Experience

Our individualized learning pathways ensure that every child receives the support they need to flourish academically and socially, respecting their unique learning styles.

Discover Our Philosophy
preschooler working with rocks
Explore Our Academics

Research-Backed Education

Our curriculum is designed not only for kindergarten readiness but also to equip children with the skills needed to navigate and lead in the world of tomorrow.

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Meet the Owners

Vivek Jaikamal & Maneesha Mankad

Vivek and Maneesha have been part of the Ann Arbor community for over 30 years, raising their two daughters in a dynamic and intellectually rich environment. Vivek brings decades of business and leadership experience in the automotive industry, while Maneesha transitioned from a career in statistics to teaching, inspired by her volunteer work in local schools. Since 2014, Maneesha has taught Mathematics at Community High School, where she also serves as Department Chair.

Together, they bring extensive experience in mentoring, team building, and fostering inclusive, supportive environments. Their deep commitment to education led them to volunteer in many areas within the local schools. These experiences deepened Maneesha’s love for working with children and highlighted the importance of close collaboration with families and educators—a value that continues to guide their work.

Maneesha strongly believes in nurturing curiosity, independence, and a love of lifelong learning through discovery and collaboration. Drawn to Ivybrook’s philosophy which emphasizes individualized learning, student voice, and discovery-based approaches, she saw a unique opportunity to impact early learners in the Ann Arbor, Saline, and Ypsilanti areas.

As Director of Enrollment, Maneesha works closely with families, educators, and students to build a warm, inclusive learning community where every child is supported and celebrated.  Outside of the classroom, Maneesha enjoys traveling, reading, dance, theater, music, and spending quality time with family and friends.

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Owners of Ivybrook Academy in Ann Arbor, MI
We Can't Wait to Meet You!

Schedule a Private Tour of Our Campus

We would love to meet your family!

Schedule a private tour to get an up close look at the heart of our school and community. We invite you to explore our Reggio Emilia inspired learning spaces and discover how Ivybrook nurtures curiosity, creativity, and confidence in every child.

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Schedule a Tour with Ivybrook Academy Ann Arbor
Offering Extended Days with Dual Session (8:30 am - 4:30 pm)

Strong Academic Curriculum

At Ivybrook Academy, our Dual Enrollment program allows children to participate in both our morning and afternoon half-day sessions offering an extended day of enriching, curriculum-based learning while preserving the nurturing, focused environment our families love.

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Learn More

To learn more or to schedule a tour to see how our curriculum prepares children for a bright future, contact us below!

Contact Us
Ivybrook Academy School Building