BCA’s journey began with a simple, yet profound belief in the giftedness of every child. From its inception with just ten students, the school expanded to multiple campuses in Bellevue, adapting and growing to provide a holistic and academically rigorous education.
Today, as part of the International Schools Partnership, BCA continues to nurture exceptional young minds, guided by our founding mission that ‘Every child is gifted, let them shine.‘
Founding and Expansion
(2000-2013)
Founded by visionary educator Yuka Shimizu, Bellevue Children’s Academy traces its origins to an afterschool learning center, blossoming into a full-fledged day school in 2000. With a foundation built on Ms. Yuka’s original math and phonics curriculum, designed for her own children, BCA quickly became known for its exceptional academics and personalized approach. This period of growth underscored our commitment to fostering individual potential and achieving academic excellence.
BCA and the Creation
of WPS (2014)
Recognizing the need for quality education beyond elementary, BCA paved the way for Willows Preparatory School in 2014, on a 15-acre campus in Redmond.
This expansion was a testament to the success and demand for the BCA approach to education, extending our reach to middle and high school students.
International Recognition
and Growth
Our innovative curriculum and dedication to academic excellence caught the attention of the International Schools Partnership (ISP), leading to our joining this prestigious group in 2019. This partnership has broadened our horizons, offering BCA students unique global learning experiences and further validating our educational model.
Legacy
and Future
As we look to the future, BCA remains committed to Yuka Shimizu’s foundational philosophy, even as she stepped back from day-to-day operations in 2023. The ‘Yuka Shimizu Scholarship’ continues her legacy, ensuring access to quality education for students in need. Our annual Founders Day is a testament to our enduring commitment to our community and to each child’s potential to shine.
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✨BCA Summer School Session 1 started full of excitement!
Our summer school program for Pre-K through 4th grade combines a challenging English and math curriculum with enriching activities designed to foster creativity, independent thinking, and self-confidence! 🤩
#ISPSchools #SummerSchool #SummerSchool2024 #BCAPrePrimary #BCAPrimary #Handsonlearning
🎉 The last day of school was filled with celebration and excitement at the BCA Carnival! A big thank you to the Parents Association for preparing all the great activities, including bouncy houses, magic show, game truck, carnival games, body painting, a visit from the reptile man, photo booths, an ice cream truck, and more! 🍦🎪
We truly appreciate all the support from the BCA community throughout the year. Wishing everyone a very happy summer! ☀️
#ISPSchools #lastdayofschool #EndOfSchoolYear #SummerFun #ThanksPA
