Ivybrook Academy in Castle Rock brings an innovative blend of learning styles to the Pre K students and families of the community. Since its opening in 2020, the school has provided flexible, individualized education for children from toddlers to kindergarten. Here, education focuses on the academic achievements of students just as much as their social and emotional development.
The half-day academy has earned tremendous trust among the families it has served and is continuing to grow through word-of-mouth referrals. With exceptionally low teacher attrition and a strong, healthy culture that flows from staff to students, Ivybrook is making positive impacts on the community and offering strong foundations in early childhood education. Behind the success of the school is Mark Arbitrio—a Colorado resident, husband, and father.
"Mr. Mark," as the Ivybrook students know him, is a trusted figure for teachers, parents, and children alike. His belief in the program has contributed massively to its success. And for Mark and his wife, it's personal too, as their own boy recently graduated from Ivybrook last year. This personal connection fuels his passion for ensuring every child who walks through Ivybrook’s doors receives the same enriching experience.
In a world where early childhood education doesn't always get the attention it deserves, Mark has carved out a space where connection and care come first. This isn’t just about teaching ABCs; it’s about shaping a culture where every child, parent, and teacher finds inspiring development and feels part of a thriving community.
With a background in corporate sales, Mark made what he describes as a “natural” transition to running the early childhood education center. “It’s all about relationships,” he shared. “And this is no different. Building trust with parents, children, and staff is the foundation of everything we do here.” This emphasis on human connection has been pivotal to Ivybrook’s establishment, growth, and reputation over the past five years.
2020 was a difficult year to open a school, Mark reflects. But despite the challenges, he was successful in bringing the first Ivybrook Academy to Colorado. When his own search for the right preschool for his son didn’t meet expectations, Mark and his wife, Alison, did something about it. Backed by robust support and national resources, Ivybrook Academy has flourished with several other Douglas County locations following its lead.
Ivybrook’s educational philosophy is built on flexibility and personalization, ensuring that every child is met where they are developmentally and academically. The school adopts a blended learning approach, merging elements of Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and traditional education models. This combination allows students to explore their interests, develop critical thinking skills, and grow at their own pace.
The program places a strong emphasis on the social and emotional development of Ivybrook students, recognizing how these skills lay the groundwork for lifelong success. This allows for even the quietest children to find their voices. Mark explained how rewarding it is for parents and teachers alike to watch the reserved students blossom and come alive in the space. This focus on holistic development ensures that each child gains confidence and learns to navigate relationships, preparing them not only for the classroom but also for the larger world.
A culture of warmth and respect has been cultivated at Castle Rock’s Ivybrook Academy. “It’s wonderful to see how the positive energy from our teachers filters down to the kids,” Mark said. This ethos of mutual respect and kindness permeates every corner of the academy, creating an environment where children feel valued and parents feel confident entrusting their little ones to the program.
Under Mark’s leadership, Ivybrook Academy in Castle Rock has become a worthy cornerstone of early childhood education in the community. As he reflects on the past five years, Mark remains steadfast in his commitment to fostering relationships and enriching lives. "I'm really grateful to have both the staff and the families that we have," he said. "I love going to work every day."
For more information visit us online at https://www.ivybrookacademy.com/castle-rock/.