About Us

Woodland Academy

We Speak the Language of Childhood

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Woodland Academy began as an idea in 1993 and came to life in 2008. Since then, it has grown into a thriving Christian preschool and child care center in Rogers, Arkansas, where children are loved, cared for, and respected as capable and competent people. Families choose Woodland for its high-quality early childhood education, nature-based learning, and faith-filled environment that helps children grow in every way.

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Woodland Academy is proudly family-owned and operated by Cheryl and Rob Starek, long-time Rogers residents and dedicated community servants. Cheryl has served as a change agent in local school districts and across the state of Arkansas, working to improve classrooms, Pre-K-3rd,  and elevate the standard of early childhood education. She has worked tirelessly to improve Reading and English/Language Arts instruction for all children. It’s no wonder Woodland’s classrooms are filled with creative, imaginative play, strong social-emotional support, exemplary instruction in the key areas of reading, language arts, math and science and foundational Biblical teaching. She is currently focused on pouring into teachers to help bring change to our state's dismal reading scores in this post COVID time.

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As parents, foster parents, and Sunday school teachers, Cheryl and Rob have devoted their lives to supporting children and families. Cheryl is especially known as a champion for parents, walking alongside moms and dads with coaching, encouragement, and practical next steps for raising children in faith and love. Their commitment to family and community is reflected in every corner of Woodland Academy’s classrooms.

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In June 2025, Woodland Academy proudly completed its reaccreditation journey,

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earning an impressive score of 6.1 out of 7.

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This accomplishment reflects our unwavering commitment to excellence in Christian early childhood education and places Woodland among the top-rated programs in the region. Achieving such a high score shows the dedication of our teachers, the strength of our curriculum, and the intentional design of our safe, nurturing environment. Families can feel confident knowing that their children are receiving care and education that meets the highest standards of quality.

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At Woodland, we believe in nurturing the whole child—spiritually, emotionally, socially, physically, and cognitively. We proudly believe the Reggio Emilia inspired approach, faith-based values, and nature play into our daily routines, creating a unique learning experience that prepares children for kindergarten and for life.

When families join Woodland Academy, they join a caring community that truly “Speaks the Language of Childhood.”