The Good Shepherd Preschool believes that each child is a unique individual deserving a secure, caring, and stimulating atmosphere in which to grow and mature emotionally, intellectually, physically, and socially. Three elements that we believe are beneficial to establishing such an environment are: caring professional adult guidance, allowing the child to direct his/her learning, and promoting respect for all people and all things.  

            The teacher's role is to guide students, providing access to information rather than acting as the primary source of information.  The teacher’s role is to help children meet their fullest potential by providing an environment that is safe, encourages play and a sense of wonder, supports safe risk-taking, and invites a sharing of ideas.

            When students have ownership in the curriculum, they are motivated to learn well and master the skills necessary to reach their goals.  For students to construct knowledge, they need opportunities to discover and practice skills in authentic situations. Providing student access to realistic, hands-on activities and allowing adequate time and space to use materials that reinforce learning creates an opportunity for individual discovery and construction of knowledge to occur.  We also believe in encouraging the use of their imagination. Our environment is designed to encourage imaginative, creative play.  

            Helping students to develop a deep love and respect for themselves, others, and their environment occurs through an open sharing of ideas and a judicious approach to discipline.  We believe children have greater respect for their teachers, their peers, and the lessons presented when they feel safe and sure of what is expected of them. By setting fair and consistent guidelines initially and demonstrating the importance of every activity, children are shown respect for their presence and time. In turn they learn to respect themselves, others, and their environment. The students learn they are a part of a greater community and they help take care of that community.  They develop independence, confidence, and resiliency through their play and relationships.  

We are inspired by the early childhood education work of Jesus Christ, Dr. Maria Montessori, Rudolf Steiner, the educators and mothers of post-war Reggio Emilia, Italy among many other professionals, but most of all by the amazing children we serve.  We accept children of all abilities working with parents to provide the best experience we can.  

We accept and support children with food allergies and help their parents negotiate this fragile concept.  We are ALWAYS tree nut and peanut free.  We will also work with families of children with other food related allergies if we can. 

 

This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.