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For many years members of St. Andrew’s
Episcopal Church in Nogales were concerned many of the children living in Santa
Cruz County were entering public school lacking in skills and behaviors needed
for success.
In 1996, the St. Andrew’s Church Vestry decided to address this issue by
opening a private educational facility which would be based upon the premise
that a quality preschool and day care center would enhance the future academic
success of children. This premise has been proven during the years the preschool
has been in operation. The current program is bi-lingual, English is taught to
the children who speak only Spanish and Spanish is taught to those who are
English speaking. Recognition of letters, numerals, reading, writing and social
skills are fundamental components of the curriculum.
The preschool is incorporated by the State of Arizona, has the IRS designation of a non-profit (501.c. 3), and operates with a decision making Board of Directors made up of church, community members and preschool parents.
The preschool is
housed in the former church rectory which has been completely renovated to
become a child friendly, welcoming facility, meeting the Arizona Child Care
License safety requirements.
The initial funding for the operating expense of the preschool came from
interested church and community members, the Episcopal Charities Appeal of the
Diocese of Arizona and the Southwest Regional Parish, a coalition of Episcopal
churches located in the southwest portion of the Diocese. All donated funds and
grants received each year from various community and charitable foundations are
used for scholarships, equipment and operating expenses.
The preschool,
licensed by the State of Arizona for 37children, usually has a “waiting list”
illustrating the community’s interest in a quality preschool and day care
program. Students who qualify and cannot afford tuition are granted
scholarships. The tax deductible Scholarship Fund is supported by individuals,
organizations and grants. The Arizona Department of Economic Security gives
child care funding for D. E. S. approved families.
Quality education in a nurturing environment is the basic goal of St. Andrew’s
Preschool & Day Care Center. This goal is accomplished through the efforts of a
trained and caring staff. A teacher/student ratio of 1 teacher for every 10
children enhances success. At the time of the preschool spring “graduation” the
children are truly bi-lingual, they recognize and write the alphabet and
numerals, and demonstrate the social skills which are needed to help them
succeed in public school. Many of the children are also able to read.
A non-denominational chapel is held each week. Taught by an ordained priest, children sing, learn prayers and hear Biblical stories which help to instill positive values for living.
The preschool is a member of NAES (The National Association of Episcopal Schools). The preschool is accredited with the National Association for Education of Young Children (NAEYC), and is the only nationally certified private preschool in Santa Cruz County. The school is participating in the Arizona Self Study Project with the Arizona Association for Supportive Child Care. The teachers have attended classes given by Central Arizona College and have earned School Age, Provider and Preschool Certificates. Three of the teachers are also nationally certified by NAEYC.
Inquiries may be
made by calling (520) 281-0133
Page revised July 2007 by Lee Vellom.