About Our School
Click to meet the Clergy and Staff of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church
Mission and Philosophy
St. Paul’s Episcopal Preschool, a Christian school in the Episcopal tradition, provides a nurturing and safe environment for children 18 months - 5 years old that encourages curiosity, exploration, compassion, and a love of learning through play. Each child is known, loved and belongs as they develop to their fullest potential—spiritually, intellectually, and socially. Children develop a love of God, a sense of self-worth, and a respect for others.
Governing Principles of Education
- Built on the foundation of Christian love
- Instills character and integrity
- Honors individuality
- Committed to strong communication and relationships among parents, community, school, and parish
Philosophy
At St. Paul’s Episcopal Preschool, we believe that play is the work of children. Through imagining, building, pretending, and manipulating children learn how the world works and how they might change it. Our teachers facilitate learning by encouraging, guiding, clarifying, comforting, and loving. Low teacher-student ratios allow our teachers to give individualized attention to help children develop to their fullest potential.
Creative exploration and curiosity are encouraged. Materials are presented in an orderly, organized manner. Children are expected to handle materials appropriately, respect their areas, and leave them in good condition for others.
Communication skills are of great importance. Children are encouraged to “use your words” from the moment they enter St. Paul’s. As children move through the preschool years, tremendous growth takes place in vocabulary and in their ability to express ideas and feelings. The children learn to solve problems and conflicts through discussion and conversations. Using attentive listening and involvement in child-initiated conversation they increase their self-confidence and build character.
In the end, fostering a child’s confidence is our goal. We allow children to do as much for themselves as they possibly can while keeping expectations in line with ability. Children are most often successful when they feel competent.
School Governance
School Board 2024-25
St. Paul’s Episcopal Preschool is overseen by a Board of Directors made up of members of the church and school community. The Board of Directors has oversight responsibility for the policies and operation of St. Paul’s Episcopal Preschool in accordance with the Charter and Bylaws.
Officers
Chair Nikki Morrell
Vice-Chair Cari Steiner
Secretary Teresa Taylor
Treasurer Wesley Schmidt, ex-officio, non-voting
Board Members
Teddy Kidd
Michelle Lane
Kathryn Mims Spencer
Jenni Ovenstone, Ex-officio, voting
Kristin Teeters, Head of School, ex-officio, non-voting
Parent Engagement
At St Paul’s Episcopal Preschool we welcome parents and families to be involved in life at school. Sign-ups for parent volunteers will be available via Sign-up Genius—stay tuned!