University United Methodist Preschool

UUMP is an affirming Christian school that focuses heavily on developmentally appropriate, play-based education for two, three and four-year-olds. We meet daily from 9-12, with Lunch Bunch from 12-1, and are in session from September through May. UUMP welcomes children of all faiths and backgrounds and is committed to equitably serving families in traditionally marginalized groups. Each class works on academic content and it is embedded within our play-based curriculum. We focus on social and emotional learning, and emphasis in all our classes is placed on developing successful social relationships, emotional growth, independent thinking skills, problem solving, and strengthening cognitive skills. All material is presented in a developmentally appropriate way, using best teaching practices, to allow children to be active participants in their learning. Our objective is not only to foster growth in the whole child in a nurturing and loving environment, but also to provide the necessary skills to build a strong foundation for reading, writing, math, and science development, as well as to encourage an appreciation and enjoyment of literacy activities and a love of reading. We use a combination of phonics and whole language, math manipulatives and activities, social studies education, and science experiments that are appropriate for each age group, all within a framework of play.

University United Methodist Preschool is governed by a Board of Directors that operates under the direction of the University United Methodist Church Council and is accountable to the University United Methodist Church Staff Parish Relations Commitee. The mission of the Board of Directors is to focus on implementing the school’s vision through policy making that clarifies roles and responsibilities, philosophies and expectations for the school organization, and assures a system of accountability. The Preschool Director manages the day-to-day operations of UUMP.