The Preschool at Peachtree Road UMC Celebrates 60 Years
9/20/2013
This school year, The Preschool at Peachtree Road UMC in Atlanta is celebrating its 60th anniversary. The Preschool began in the fall of 1953 with one Kindergarten class of 16 children. Today, it has over 400 students and 65 teachers and staff, making it one of the largest preschools in the country. “For sixty years the Preschool at Peachtree Road UMC has been helping families in the Buckhead community. It not only is one of the finest preschools around but it has been a source of spiritual support to thousands of families and an entry point into the ministry of Peachtree Road UMC," said Bill Britt, Senior Minister at PRUMC.
The school's mission is to offer the community a program that encompasses the highest standards in early childhood education within a Christian environment of love and support.
In its 60-year history, The Preschool has had only four Directors. For the past 16 years, Linda Young has served as The Preschool’s director. Under her leadership, The Preschool has built partnerships with The Adaptive Learning Center, Young Harris College and Healthy Green Schools. Of it's 65 teachers and staff, 50 percent have an average tenure of 10 years.
"I am most proud of The Preschool's commitment to outreach and service. It is a unique and powerful part of our mission and philosophy. While we are able to make a difference in the lives of our own students, parents and teachers, we are also serving our broader local and global communities,” said Young.
"I am most proud of The Preschool's commitment to outreach and service. It is a unique and powerful part of our mission and philosophy. While we are able to make a difference in the lives of our own students, parents and teachers, we are also serving our broader local and global communities,” said Young.
The philosophy of The Preschool is rooted in a loving, nurturing Christian environment designed to allow children to play, grow and learn. This philosophy is ever-present in our developmental curriculum that includes three core areas:
· Structured learning. The Preschool employs a unique approach called “work jobs” to teach children early math and language. Handwriting Without Tears and Orton-Gillingham reading and phonics method are core curriculum elements to ensure Kindergarten readiness.
· Critical thinking. The Preschool integrates thinking skills in all curriculum activities, from math to reading and art, by asking open-ended questions, helping children classify and categorize, find patterns and work in groups.
· Christian service. The Preschool strives to show God’s love and care for others through Friday chapel services, chapel wagon donations and other outreach projects throughout the year. The Preschool believes in teaching kindness and strong character in ways appropriate for young students.
To learn more about The Preschool and the exciting celebration of its 60th anniversary, visit www.thepreschool.org or Like The Preschool on Facebook.