About Us
Built for the child we wish every parent had found.
The Modern Schoolhouse was founded in 2020 on a simple conviction: exceptional early education should be available to every family — and it should feel like home.
Sue Athwal
Founder & Director
Our Story
A founder who lived the mission first.
As a mother, published author, and educator with 10+ years in the childcare field, Sue Athwal holds a valid Multiple Subject Teaching Credential, a degree in Liberal Arts and Psychology, a Childcare Program Director’s Permit, and serves as a Positive Discipline Parent Educator & Coach.
As Founder of The Modern Schoolhouse and The Modern Mom & Baby, she had the opportunity to work with organizations such as Make A Wish Foundation and Big Brothers & Sisters Club, while playing in the NCAA. During her teaching career, she worked in both public and private school districts — including Pasadena, Alhambra, Compton & South Central — and has vast knowledge as a Newborn Care Specialist.
As a Preschool Curriculum Developer, Sue is well-known for promoting early education and helps children reach their full learning potential through tailored instruction. Her own daughter was American Mensa’s youngest child to join — with an IQ over 145 at 2 years old. With the wealth of knowledge and demand for high-quality childcare, Sue opened her first location in 2020 to give back to the community.
Founder’s Credentials
“Our program is built on ‘teacher to’ relationships — four of them: Teacher to Child, Teacher to Parent, Teacher to Teacher, and Teacher to Administration. When all four are strong, children feel it in every corner of the classroom.”
Sue Athwal, Founder & Owner
Our Approach
Intentional Teaching.
At TMS, we take teaching to the next level by equipping our educators with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel. Our comprehensive program delves into the 5 dimensions of teaching and learning — ensuring every classroom is purposeful, connected, and child-centered.
Purpose
Student Engagement
Curriculum & Pedagogy
Assessment for Student Learning
Classroom Environment & Culture
“TMS became more to us than simply a well-organized preschool. It became a community we genuinely feel part of.”
— Parent, Eagle Rock
Our Team
Meet Our Dedicated Educators
The Modern Schoolhouse provides rigorous in-house certificated training for all staff ensuring the program philosophy and whole-child approach are exemplified in every classroom.
All staff hold significant qualifications in early childhood education. Teachers are CPR-First Aid certified, Mandated Reporters, Live Scan and DOJ cleared with the State of California.
Assistant Director
Teacher Visions
Conscious Discipline
Anti-Bias Education
Holistic Approach
Site Supervisor
Teacher Visions
Appreciating Individuality
Building Connections
Stability & Routine
Toddler Curriculum Coordinator
Teacher Visions
Sociocultural Theory
Montessori
Collaborative Family Partnerships
“Our program believes in the power of children, parents and teachers as a community learning and growing together.”
The Modern Schoolhouse Mission