Zion Early Childhood Education Center
Early Childhood Programs
Zion Lutheran School’s Early Childhood Education Center offers both preschool and daycare programs designed to nurture the academic, social, and spiritual development of young children. Our preschool program is led by a certified teacher, ensuring structured and age-appropriate learning environments tailored to the developmental stages of each child.
Preschool
The preschool curriculum focuses on foundational skills such as letter and number recognition, shapes, colors, phonemic awareness, fine and gross motor skills, and social development through play, music, movement, and hands-on activities. Zion’s preschool classes are structured into separate 3-year-old and 4-year-old groups, allowing teachers to effectively target and support the specific developmental needs of each age group.
Daycare
Complementing our preschool program, Zion’s daycare is more than just child care—it is an educational extension offering structured curriculum-based activities, crafts, songs, and plenty of opportunities for creative play. Available on both full-time and part-time schedules, the daycare provides a safe, nurturing environment where children continue learning and exploring, fostering their curiosity and preparing them for a seamless transition into more structured educational settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ages does Zion’s Early Childhood program serve?
Zion serves potty-trained children ages 3 to 11 years old, with dedicated preschool classes for 3 and 4-year-olds.
Does my child need to be potty trained?
Yes, all children must be fully potty trained, capable of independently managing bathroom needs.
What are the preschool hours?
The 4-year-old class meets Monday through Friday, 8:00-11:20 am. The 3-year-old class meets Tuesdays and Thursdays, 12:30-3:00 pm.
What are the daycare hours?
Daycare operates Monday to Friday from 6 am to 6 pm, with full-time and part-time options available.
Are meals and snacks provided?
Yes, lunch and snacks are provided for full-time daycare students. Snacks are provided for part-time daycare students, with lunch available for purchase.
Is Zion a safe environment for my child?
Zion prioritizes safety with secure entrances, surveillance cameras, and trained staff certified in CPR, AED, First Aid, and mandated reporter training.
How do you integrate faith into your programs?
Zion incorporates a Christ-centered curriculum, teaching basic Bible stories and Christian values. Preschool and daycare students attend weekly chapel services.
How can I register my child?
Complete the registration form and submit the non-refundable $80 fee during designated registration periods. Final registration requires additional paperwork, including health records and birth certificates.
Who can I contact with further questions?
Please reach out to Pam Kleckner, Preschool Teacher and Daycare Director, via email at [email protected] or call the school office at 618-635-3060.
What happens if my child is ill?
Children must be symptom-free for 24 hours before returning. Illnesses such as fever above 100°F, diarrhea, rash, or suspected contagious diseases require staying home.
Are there opportunities for parent involvement?
Yes, parents are encouraged to participate in various volunteer opportunities and school events to support their child's educational experience.
What if my child has an accident or illness during the school day?
Staff members trained in CPR, AED, and First Aid will care for your child, and parents will be contacted immediately in case of any significant health issue or emergency.
Tuition and Fees
Preschool:
- 4-year-old class: $168/month (10-month payment plan)
- 3-year-old class: $100/month (10-month payment plan)
Daycare (includes preschool tuition and lunch):
- Full-time: $170/week
- Part-time: $40/day (over 4 hours), $20/day (4 hours or less)
Additional Fees:
- Non-refundable registration fee for Preschool: $80
- Preschool snack fee (assessed annually)
- Bedding fee (daycare napping children): $25 (one-time)
Payment methods and additional billing details are available upon registration.