Our history
From the House of Learning to Killian Oaks
Killian Oaks Academy began its existence as the House of Learning in 1968. Since then the Academy has grown to its present position and has been at the forefront in implementing educational innovations that deal with the unique needs of students.
The philosophy that guides the school today was set by its founder, Mercedes Ricon, who served 25 years as Director, and continues under her daughter, Dr. Mercedes "Merchy" Ricon, Director since 2020: know each child, recognize their strengths, give them the tools they need to succeed, and never stop challenging them to grow.
The story in brief
1968
The school opens in Miami as the House of Learning, built around educational innovations for students with unique needs, and becomes recognized as one of the finest of its kind in the South.
1976
Mercedes Ricon begins her career in education, teaching in inner-city New York City. She later works as a teacher and administrator at a private school in Miami.
Early 1990s
Under the leadership of Mercedes Ricon, the House of Learning becomes Killian Oaks Academy. She goes on to serve 25 years as Director.
1996
Dr. Mercedes "Merchy" Ricon joins the Killian Oaks community, moving through the school as a teacher, department head, business manager, and assistant principal.
2020
Dr. Ricon becomes Director. The founder continues as Founder and Director Emerita. Under the new Director the Academy adds the Middle States Association and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges to its accreditations.
Today
Killian Oaks Academy has been transforming the lives of children for more than fifty years, from Pre-Kindergarten 3 through 12th grade, on the same campus under the oaks in Kendall.
A founder's work beyond the school
NIPSA
On the board of the National Independent Private Schools Association since 1998, more than 15 years as Vice President of Accreditation for East Coast Schools, and now Vice President of Accreditation for International Schools, leading accreditation teams nationally and internationally.
AISF
On the board of the Association of Independent Schools of Florida from 1994 and an Emeritus Board Member since 2020. The AISF Outstanding Service Award in 2003 and the Richard and Dorothy Lear Memorial Distinguished Educator Award in 2022.
South Florida
On the board of the Independent Schools of South Florida since 1999, organizing teacher training seminars and helping create the Stars Awards Luncheon that celebrates student achievement, and 15 years on the board of Amigos for Kids.
We'd love to meet your child
The best way to know whether Killian Oaks is right for your child is to walk the campus on a school day, watch a lesson, and talk with the people who would teach them. Tell us your child's grade and we'll set a time.