The Preschool Program of the First Methodist Church is an extension of the total ministry of the church, serving not only families of the church, but the entire community.  It is a learning center concerned with the whole child, where in an age appropriate, fun environment, children are encouraged to explore, discover, create, and communicate, while developing a positive self concept which will foster a never ending desire to learn.
For more information, please contact the preschool office at 254-773-1947 or email Tara Sutherland.

For 40 years, we have provided excellent part-time care for young children in Bell County.  We are a unique program in that we offer consistent, quality care for infants and toddlers, along with a stimulating and educational environment for preschool children.  Many of our children stay with our program from nursery through Pre-K.  The program is structured to benefit stay at home Moms and Dads, parents who work part time, college students, and other caregivers such as nannies and Grandparents.  We do not offer full-time daycare.  Our goal is to provide the best care and a great education for your child while Mom and Dad are away.

Our teachers plan their daily activities based on a curriculum outline that list goals and objectives for each age level.  The goals and objectives build on each other from the nursery through the Pre-K classes.  Our goal is to provide developmentally appropriate environments and activities for all children.  We believe that preschool children learn through play with a purpose.  We also believe that it is our job as a school to provide the atmosphere, the materials, and the support for each child to play, learn, grow and develop.  All of our curriculum is based on the belief that children learn best through play and a wide variety of meaningful, hands-on experiences.  We are proud to announce upgraded of security, indoor play area, music class, and art classes. We also included several after school activities such as TOTS and Soccer Shots. 

Children are registered for classes according to the child’s age on September 1st.  Classes remain constant throughout the year, we do not promote students to the next age group as they have birthdays.  The children learn, grow, and develop together.  Occasionally, classes are combined or divided according to registration.

• Nursery 6-11 months 
• Older Infants 12-17 months*
• Toddlers 18-23 months*

In our Nursery class we provide excellent care from experienced, loving teachers.  Teachers work closely with the parents to provide individualized care for each infant.  Teachers document major aspects of each child’s day, take a daily walk in the bye-bye buggy, and offer many opportunities to explore the world around them with stimulating toys, music and books.
 Our Older Infants and Toddlers enjoy adding more activities to their routine. In addition to meeting their daily needs, teachers incorporate a short circle time each morning where they share favorite songs and finger plays.  Classroom activities include a variety of opportunities to develop fine and gross motor skills through puzzles, table toys, large blocks, climbing, and riding toys.

* child must be age by September 1st

In our preschool classes, teachers provide learning centers and a wide variety of interactive materials.  The children are exposed to pre-phonics and pre-math concepts and have many opportunities to practice their early reading, writing and math skills.  Children are encouraged to participate in a more involved circle time, as well as develop social skills such as the importance of respecting the classroom and personal belongings.  Our classes have experienced and/or certified teachers.  Our preschool program includes ages 2-5.*



* must be age by September 1st

Ms. Liz - Infant Teacher
Ms. Sara- Infant Aide (T/TH)
Ms. Carissa - Younger Toddler Teacher
Ms. Addyson- Younger Toddler Aide
Ms. Suzy- Older Toddler Teacher
Ms. Kim K.- Older Toddler Aide
Ms. Kim - Twos Teacher
Ms. Missy- Twos Aide
Ms. Emma- Twos Teacher
Ms. Briana- Twos Teacher Aide
Ms. Tanja- Threes Teacher
Ms. Hillary - Threes Teacher
Ms. Amanda- PreK Teacher
Ms. Evelyn- PreK Teacher
Ms. Janet- PreK Aide

Ms. Patsy- Floating Aide
Ms. Julie-Floating Aide
Ms. Tracy-Floating Aide
Ms. Cara- Music/Art
Ms. Colleen- gymnastics teacher
Ms. Cara- Pivot dance teacher

Program Days:
Nursery-Three's Classes

• Four Days: Monday- Thursday
• Three Days: Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday
• Two Days: Tuesday/Thursday

Pre-k Classes

• Four Days: Monday-Thursday
• Three Days: Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday

Times: 
Half Day9:00-12:00
Full Day9:00-2:30

Holidays/Days Off:
We will follow our school calendar. A calendar will be given at the beginning of the year. We start the Tuesday after Labor Day.  We have off all Federal Holiday, except for Veteran's Day. Our holiday breaks will follow closely with surrounding school districts but could differ a few days. Please always refer to  FMC Preschool calendar. 

This class is available for parents who need an earlier start. Children can arrive as early as 7:45 a.m. This is non-structured play time with a mixed age group. Children are taken to their regular classes at 8:50 a.m. Children must be at least 18 months of age to attend Early Bird. Registration is required to attend Early Bird. If you will be using the class on an occasional basis, you must call the school to reserve.

Early Bird:
2 days per week              
3 days per week              
4 days per week                

* only offered if we have enough students sign up

Tara Sutherland- Director
tara.sutherland@templemethodist.org
254-773-1947
Office Hours
Monday-Thursday
9:00 AM- 2:30 PM