Our School
From Humble Beginnings to a Thriving School Community
What began in 1996 as a single classroom with just 12 students and 2 dedicated staff members has grown into a vibrant ministry of St. Mark Presbyterian Church. Nestled in the church’s former sanctuary, our school still honors its roots-two of our classrooms proudly display the original stained glass windows.
Nearly 30 years later, we’ve expanded to 9 classrooms, a team of over 25 passionate educators, and the joy of serving 108 young children and their families. Our story is one of faith, growth, and a deep commitment to nurturing the whole child in a loving, learning-rich environment.
We are proud to be the only program in Kendall County nationally accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and to be recognized as a 4-star Texas Rising Star school. These honors are a testament to our unwavering dedication to providing the highest quality care and education for young children and their families in our community.
Our Philosophy
The purpose of the Early Learning Center of St. Mark Presbyterian Church is to nurture the spiritual, social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth of children in a climate of love and support through a Christian based program of excellence. The program seeks, through a varied and enriching curriculum, to help children in the development of self-direction, self-expression, self-discipline, and a positive self-image. Developmentally appropriate practices will be employed to facilitate children’s skills necessary to reach their highest potential in the educational system and as mature human beings.
Goals for each child include:
- growth in the knowledge and the love of God
- development of a positive self-image
- development of the talent, abilities, and creativity unique to each child
- development of self-control and self-discipline
- appropriate independence and initiative
- cooperative attitude and ability to share with others
- readiness skills in language and math through appropriate developmental activities
- discovery and enjoyment of music, art, and dramatic play
- expansion of language skills, both listening and speaking (emerging literacy)
- stimulation of healthy curiosity and creativity
- problem solving skills, effective communication, and self-expression skills.
- development of a love of learning-to last a lifetime
Our Curriculum
Our teachers carefully plan engaging lessons using trusted, research-based curricula that align with the Texas Prekindergarten Guidelines. By blending the Circle Curriculum and Kickstart Literacy Curriculum with a strong understanding of each child’s individual needs, we nurture growth at every level helping children build confidence, curiosity, and the essential skills they need for a strong start and a lifelong love of learning.
