Preschool

Our programming runs from 8:30 to 12noon, Monday through Friday, 2, 3, 4, and 5 day classes, depending on age. We also offer an early drop off option beginning at 8am. We are not a licensed daycare and are instead Bright From The Start Exempt. We operate part time, during the school year (August to May) and are authorized to provide care for a limited number of hours per week, based on age.

At this time, we do not offer a summer camp program. We firmly believe our staff are at their best when they’ve had time to recharge during the summer break. Many of our staff are moms themselves and have kids at home; we want to encourage them to spend time with family during the summer months.

No lunch is provided. Our school days are short and dismissal ends at 12noon. With consideration to tuition and the amount of time in the day, we offer children a snack and they will be ready to enjoy lunch when they are dismissed.

We ask parents to provide snack on a rotational basis for their child’s classroom. 12-15 students per class, 1 week worth of salty & sweet snacks, typically 2 times a school year. No juice, milk, etc. is necessary.

All of our classes utilize our outdoor playground space daily, when weather allows. Our playground is not visible from the street, so you may not know it exists, but stop by for a tour and see it in person!

We love taking the opportunity to share the world outside of the 4 walls of a classroom! Our preschool program plans for 1-2 field trips each school year.

We believe open communication between director, staff and preschool family is of great importance for an enjoyable preschool experience. Our preschool provides a secured software platform to message with preschool staff, receive updates on activity, eating and bathroom, as well as a billing option for online payments.

First Methodist Preschool is a play-based learning program focusing on the physical, social, emotional and spiritual well-being of preschoolers. We work on gross & fine motor skills, basic academics, learning in a semi-structured environment while still being a child and having age-appropriate experiences. Preschoolers attend 2 music classes (traditional and active play songs) as well as Chapel weekly. A Day in the classroom will include socializing, circle time, crafting, science exploration, music, physical activities, and so much more!

All staff must pass a background check, remain CPR & First Aid Certified as well as are required to take a bi-annual training in child abuse awareness training. Staff are also trained annually on skills and education appropriate to the preschool classroom.

We keep our teacher to child ratios low and while they vary by age group, all classes always have a minimum of 2 adults in each classroom, with no more than 15 students in a classroom for our older classes.

We try to keep tuition rates as low as possible and adjust annually as needed. Tuition rates run from August to May annually, with a $100 registration fee per school year and a $50 supply fee each August and March. Ask about sibling & military discounts.

We love for parents to be involved. We have an open-door policy and welcome parents to attend events, parties and programs. We also invite parents to come for a visit – read a book, do a craft, etc. We’re a family and you are always welcome!

Yes! We would love to meet you! Email us at mthompson@valdostafmc.org, or give us a call to schedule a time to see the program, tour the facilities, and meet the staff! We look forward to meeting you!