First English Lutheran Preschool

First English Lutheran Preschool (FELP) began in 1981 as a mission of the church to the community following their Christian philosophy and this continues currently. Our preschool vision is that children will flourish in joyful and developmentally appropriate learning to their best of their abilities. Under the leadership of five Directors (Lucille Sorenson, Jeanette James, Kathy Schaefer, Margaret Rach, and currently Tracy Gleissner), the preschool program has been accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) since June 1986;  This honor is achieved by NAEYC observation and documentation following their 10 standards.  We also have achieved Indiana’s recognition of high quality early childhood education and care by achieving Paths to Quality Level 4 status.

 

In 2018, FELP became a High Scope certified program with our consistent daily routines, defined play areas, balance of teacher/child initiated activities and participation in the sequence of plan, do, review for work time.  We follow Indiana’s Early Learning Foundation standards as we create activities and document development for the children in our care. We serve families with children ages 2-6 years old in our three age grouped classes (2/3 years, 3/ 4 years and Pre-K) with our half-day preschool sessions. We are approved to take Child Care Development Fund vouchers as well as being an On My Way Pre K provider. We currently employ 1 Director along with 7 college educated teachers and operate with a Board of Directors including the Church Secretary/treasurer, Church Pastor, various church members as well as parent/grandparent representatives from our preschool families. 

 

Our mission is for children to experience growth and learning in social, emotional, physical, communicative, and cognitive development to garner a positive attitude about school to gain a greater appreciation and understanding of their peers and the world around them; Children will participate in activities to explore and practice skills to become a valued and contributing member of their class community.