Masters Academy
Masters Academy is a warm, welcoming learning environment where young minds blossom. As a family-owned preschool in Watkinsville, we treat every child like our own. Our mission is to nurture not only academic success, but also joy, curiosity, and confidence — all in a space where students feel known, supported, and at home.
Meet Erica Masters
Erica Masters, Owner and Director
For Erica Masters, early childhood education is more than a career, it’s a lifelong calling rooted in love, family, and hands-on experience. Raised by devoted, hard-working parents, Erica was deeply inspired by her mother, who served as a dedicated childcare director for over 30 years. That environment shaped her early values of service, integrity, and compassion.
So eager to learn and contribute, Erica obtained a work permit at just 13 years old to begin helping at her mother’s center. From that young age through her college years, she worked in every position, supporting in classrooms, managing the front desk, assisting with enrollment, maintaining compliance, and even contributing to staffing and budgeting decisions. This early, immersive experience gave her a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to operate a warm, high-quality, and successful childcare program.
Erica went on to earn a Master’s degree in Accounting and built a successful career in public service and higher education. She served as an auditor for the State of Georgia and as an accountant at the University of Georgia. Erica also shared her knowledge as an adjunct instructor at the University of West Georgia, all while working full time, a testament to her dedication and work ethic.
Today, Erica combines her deep operational knowledge, financial expertise, and heartfelt passion for children to lead with excellence. At the heart of her work is a belief that every child deserves to be seen, heard, nurtured, and supported in a safe and enriching environment. She is committed to helping each child grow academically, socially, and emotionally. She also strives to create a warm, inclusive culture where families feel seen, supported, and valued as partners in their child’s early learning journey, and where staff feel empowered, appreciated, and inspired to give their best every day.
Erica leads with heartfelt warmth, strong values, and a deep commitment to early childhood education. She believes in meeting each child where they are, nurturing their unique needs, and guiding their growth with care and attention, ensuring they are supported every step of the way.
Erica is a devoted wife and proud mother of four, Addilyn, Jackson, Harrison, and Hudson. Her family is her greatest joy and constant source of inspiration. Whether she’s leading with passion in her professional work or creating meaningful moments at home, Erica brings wholehearted dedication to everything she does.
You can often find the Masters crew out and about, yes, all six of them, at the grocery store, local ballfields, fishing at Hardigree Wildlife Sanctuary, exploring neighborhood playgrounds, or cheering at UGA events. They are also proud to give back to the community through programs like Meals on Wheels and leading preschool church groups are just a few of the ways they give back. Deeply rooted in their community, they embrace every chance to grow, serve, and connect together.
OUR PROGRAMS
EXPLORE OUR OFFERINGS
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Our 7 Georgia Pre-K classrooms provide a high-quality, state-funded education for children in the year before kindergarten. Each classroom is designed to nurture academic readiness, social skills, and emotional development, following Georgia’s Pre-K standards. Our dedicated teachers engage students with a curriculum that emphasizes early literacy, math, and social studies, all within a supportive, fun, and safe environment.
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The Pre-K Prepsters classroom offers a stepping stone for younger children ages 3 and 4, helping them transition into Georgia Pre-K. Through structured play and age-appropriate learning activities, we focus on building early academic skills, fostering curiosity, and enhancing social interactions. This class provides the foundational skills needed for a smooth and confident entry into Pre-K, helping children gain independence and a love for learning.
Our Pre-K Prepsters class runs from August through May and is thoughtfully designed to help children build confidence, independence, and school readiness. Core instruction takes place from 8:00 AM to 2:30 PM, followed by a smooth transition into our after-school program, just like our Pre-K students. During the summer months, children continue learning and having fun through our engaging, play-based summer camp program.
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Our After-School Program provides a safe, engaging, and fun environment for children after school hours. We offer a range of activities, including homework help, arts and crafts, outdoor play, and interactive learning games. Children are encouraged to explore their interests, build social skills, and unwind in a comfortable, nurturing setting until parents are ready to pick them up.
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Our Summer Camp program is an exciting way for children to stay active and engaged during the summer months. With a mix of educational activities, creative arts, sports, and outdoor adventures, our camp fosters a fun, enriching experience. Every week features a new theme, keeping children engaged and learning while having fun with friends in a safe, supportive environment.
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During school holidays, our Holiday Program offers a festive and enriching atmosphere for children. From arts and crafts to themed activities, this program ensures that children enjoy their time off with structured play, creative expression, and group activities. The Holiday Program provides a wonderful opportunity for kids to socialize and enjoy holiday-themed fun, all while learning and developing new skills.
Program Hours & Schedules
At Masters Academy, we offer a range of programs to meet the needs of busy families while providing a nurturing, structured environment for children to learn and grow.
Georgia Pre-K
Follows the Oconee County School System calendar
Program Hours: 7:30 AM – 2:30 PM
Before Care
7:00 AM – 7:30 AM
Available for families needing an early drop-off option.
After School Care
2:30 PM – 6:00 PM
We offer after-school pickup from:
Dove Creek Elementary School (DCES)
Malcom Bridge Elementary School (MBES)
Rocky Branch Elementary School (RBES)
Summer Camp & Holiday Care
7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Fun-filled, full-day care is available during school breaks and summer months, providing enriching activities and continued structure.