St. James Lutheran Preschool Builds a Strong Foundation

September 24, 2025

To help families better understand the progression from preschool through kindergarten, the chart below outlines the age-based pathways and schedule options available at St. James.

We are excited to welcome families to a refreshed and robust Early Childhood (EC) experience at St. James Lutheran School for the 2025–26 school year! With a newly enhanced preschool structure, our youngest learners are set on a joyful and thoughtful path to Kindergarten, starting from day one.


Beginning this year, our preschool program is led by three experienced Lead Teachers, bringing a new level of consistency and care to our classrooms. Each of our two preschool rooms is led by its own dedicated Lead Teacher, supported by an Instructional Assistant, while a third floating Lead Teacher provides support, enrichment, and flexibility across both rooms.


With this model, we offer a 1:6 teacher-to-student ratio, ensuring every child receives individualized attention and care as they grow. 



Flexible Scheduling for Families

Our preschool classrooms include a diverse mix of scheduling options to meet families’ needs:

  • 2-day (T/TH): Half-day or full-day

  • 3-day (MWF): Half-day or full-day

  • 5-day: Half-day or full-day

This flexible design gives families the ability to build a schedule that fits their lifestyle, while still allowing students to build strong peer relationships and settle into a consistent routine. Each preschool classroom is a mix of students from our 2, 3, and 5 day options.



Inquiry-Based Learning

At the heart of our EC programs is a commitment to inquiry-based learning. Our teachers observe, listen, and document students’ interests to build thematic units around what naturally excites them. Whether it's trains, pizza, farm animals, or nature - learning at St. James begins with curiosity.

We also recognize that no two children grow and develop the same way or on the same timeline. Our educators support each child’s unique learning journey through purposeful play, hands-on exploration, and nurturing relationships.


Applications Now Open for 2026–27

If you're considering early childhood education for your child, we invite you to apply early for the 2026–27 school year. Spaces in our Early Childhood programs fill quickly due to small class sizes.

Come visit our campus this fall to see our inquiry-based classrooms in action and meet the dedicated teachers. Apply today or schedule a tour by visiting our admissions page.

Joining St. James: A Warm Welcome at Any Stage

April 1, 2026
Starting at a new school can bring a mix of excitement and uncertainty. For families joining St. James at a non-traditional entry point, one of the biggest questions is often: What will the transition actually feel like? 

From St. James to High School - Alumni Features

March 10, 2026
Each year, St. James students leave our halls equipped to thrive in the next chapter of their academic journey. In fact, 95% of our 8th grade classes are accepted into their first-choice high school, a testament to the strong academic foundation, character development, and faith formation they receive during their time here. We’re excited to feature some of our recent St. James alumni who started high school this past fall. They shared reflections on their experiences so far, the ways St. James prepared them, and advice for current students.

Financial Aid Philosophy

March 10, 2026
At the heart of our school is a simple but deeply held belief: a Christ-centered education should be accessible to families who desire it. Our mission is not only to educate students academically, but to walk alongside families as partners in the formation of their children spiritually, intellectually, and relationally. Our philosophy on financial aid flows directly from that commitment.

Author Night at St. James: A Celebration of Young Learners

February 12, 2026
Author Night at St. James is a beloved opportunity for our Early Childhood families to step into the classroom and experience literacy learning alongside their children. Rooted in our inquiry-based approach, the evening highlights how students have explored a particular author’s life, works, stories, themes, and art through meaningful, hands-on experiences while inviting parents to be active participants in the learning process. Below is a look at how each class brought Author Night to life this year!

Admissions at St. James Lutheran School: What to Expect

January 27, 2026
Choosing the right school for your child is both exciting and deeply personal. At St. James Lutheran School, we believe the admissions process should feel just as thoughtful as the education we provide. From your first inquiry to your child’s first day, our goal is to walk alongside your family, answer your questions honestly, and help you discern whether St. James is the right fit for your child. Below is a closer look at how our admissions process works and what you can expect along the way.

St. James Launches a Newspaper Club

January 13, 2026
This article was written by Newspaper Club Reporter, Scout O.

Christmas at St. James

December 18, 2025
The Christmas season at St. James is always a special time, filled with opportunities to gather, celebrate, and reflect on the true meaning of Christ’s birth. This year, our community came together in so many beautiful ways, creating memories that will last well beyond the season.

Rethinking Homework at St. James Lutheran School

December 4, 2025
Supporting Learning, Balance, and Family Time

A Season of Thankfulness at St. James

November 19, 2025
As we reflect on this season of gratitude, one theme rises again and again at St. James: our community is our greatest blessing. From teachers to staff to families, thankfulness is woven through our school’s culture, shaping the way we learn, grow, and support one another.

Building Strong Mathematical Thinkers with Spatial Temporal Math

November 5, 2025
At St. James Lutheran School, it’s important to us that we seek and implement innovative methods to help our students develop a deep and lasting understanding of mathematics. This year, we are excited to introduce Spatial Temporal Math, a new supplemental program that enhances our current Envision Math curriculum (and Everyday Math in Grade 1).