- How long has Little School been in existence?
- Little School was founded in 1959 as a kindergarten, and has been associated with First Presbyterian Church since that time. In 2003 Little School became a member of the American Christian Schools International. The director, teachers, and other staff have all benefited from the conferences, resources, and support provided by ACSI.
- What is the enrollment at Little School?
- Around 200 children ages two through five attend Little School each week.
- Who are the Little School teachers and how have they been trained?
- The entire staff at Little School has undergone background checks as part of the hiring process. Also, each member of the staff is a professing Christian and is an active member of an area church. The teachers are all either degreed or CDA certified. In addition, teachers and aides attend yearly staff training and conferences, including the "Safe Child" instruction used at First Presbyterian Church. The staff also receives CPR training on a bi-yearly basis.
- How many children are in a class?
- There are eight children in each of the 2's classes, with one teacher and one full time aide. (1 to 4 ratio) The 3 and 4-year old classes each have 12 students, with one teacher and one full time aide. (1 to 6 ratio)
- What is the curriculum used at Little School?
- The Little School curriculum is based on a variety of themes and concepts related to each month of attendance. There is a Bible Lesson, nutrition or cooking experience, and science activity for each month. There are many activities to enhance small and large motor skills, creative art talents, rich language experiences, and cognitive learning on a daily basis. Little School classes are currently using the Zoo-Phonics program, which is a great introduction to the alphabet and letter sounds.
- What special activities are there for the children?
- Once a month the children come together for a sing-a-long time. The children also gather together in the sanctuary for "Chapel Time"- a time to sing, pray and reinforce the monthly Bible Lesson. The 4 and 5 year old classes have a field trip 7 or 8 times each year, and we encourage parents to sign up to drive if their schedule permits. When the weather is agreeable, Little School uses an outdoor play yard. In November, the children enjoy a Thanksgiving feast. Special visitors come to explain their jobs or share special music programs. The staff plans special days such as Community Helper Dress-up Day, Transportation Day, Mystery Visitor Day, Farm Day, Trike-a-thon Day, and others.
- Are there special programs for the parents?
- In September, just before school begins, all parents are encouraged to bring their children in to meet the teacher and see the classroom. Dad's Night for the 4 and 5-year olds is a very special evening in October. All the classes have Christmas programs in December and they occur during regular class time. There are parent/teacher conferences in March for the 4's and 5's. Early in May, the 4's and 5's have a Mother's Tea for a special time with mom. Toward the end of May the 2's classes each have a picnic with the parents on their regular school day, the 3's classes have Park Day to end the year, and the 4's and 5's classes have a closing program/ graduation in the evening.
- Is there an Open House or time I can visit?
- Little School does not have a special time for you to visit, but we do have a very open program. If you want to see the facilities, sit in on a class, or talk with the director, just call us a few days ahead of time and we will be glad to arrange a visit.
- How do I sign my child up to attend? Is there a waiting list?
- Registration for the children already attending the program begins at the very beginning of March. Around the middle of March, registration is open to the community. A registration form and fee is required to enroll your child. If you would like a form to be sent to you as soon as registration begins, make sure the Little School office has your name on our list by calling us at 868-2558. You can also download a form from the Registration Forms page (here) and return it to Little School with your registration fee. It is a good idea to enroll as soon as possible. If you wait until the summer months, there is a good chance there will be a waiting list.
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Telephone 765.868.2558 or email us