At La Piazza Academy, we celebrate Miami’s multilingual heartbeat, where language is more than just a means of communication—it is a bridge to understanding and connection.
Through hands-on, project-based learning, children embark on a journey of language discovery, developing skills in speaking, reading, writing, and listening across multiple languages. Each new word they learn opens a door to a world of possibilities, weaving a deeper connection to both their local community and the broader, global landscape.
In this nurturing environment, language isn’t simply studied—it is lived. It becomes a way of connecting hearts, honoring cultures, and fostering respect. As children grow in their ability to express themselves across languages, they also grow in their ability to embrace the beauty of diversity, cultivating empathy and respect for the world’s many voices.
La Piazza Language Programs
Mandarin Chinese and Spanish
From the moment children step into PreK-1, Mandarin Chinese becomes a part of their weekly rhythm, opening up new worlds of expression and connection. As they grow, their understanding deepens, and by the time they reach elementary school, they are communicating confidently, both orally and in writing, in Mandarin. Alongside this, the Spanish language gracefully weaves into their daily experiences, starting in the elementary years, where it becomes another familiar thread in the fabric of their learning.
Each lesson is designed to spark joy and curiosity, making language learning an adventure filled with exploration. Whether through songs, stories, or interactive activities, students are invited to embrace the beauty and nuance of both Mandarin and Spanish, discovering that language is not just a skill, but a gateway to understanding and celebrating the diverse cultures around them.
Art
Stories
Puppet Play
Dramatic Play
Cooking
Dancing & Songs
Meet the Linguists
Ileana Arria
Spanish
Miss Ileana Arria became a part of the La Piazza family in 2019, bringing with her a wealth of experience and a heart deeply rooted in the world of children. Sixteen years ago, she journeyed to Miami from her homeland of Venezuela, where she was a teacher, school psychologist, guide, and advocate.
Nana Du
Mandarin
Miss Nana Du, a devoted member of our La Piazza family since 2016, brings warmth and wisdom from her hometown of WeiFang, in the ShanDong province of China. With over 15 years of teaching experience and a degree in Early Childhood Education, she has a gift for making Mandarin come alive—infusing each lesson with joy, movement, and meaning. Her gentle presence and deep understanding of young children have made her classroom a place where language blossoms naturally, as part of play, curiosity, and connection.
Pan Chen
Mandarin
Miss Pan joined our La Piazza family in January 2023, bringing with her a rich academic foundation from Renmin University of China and a certification in Teaching Chinese Language from the Chinese Language Teachers Association. With a passion for language and culture, she weaves creativity and warmth into every lesson, turning Mandarin into a living, joyful experience for our young learners. Her thoughtful, engaging approach invites children to explore new sounds and symbols with curiosity and delight, making each moment a meaningful step in their journey toward understanding and connection.

