When does the program begin?

The Weekday Preschool operates from late-August through mid-May. The day begins at 9 a.m. and ends at noon. The daily schedule will include appropriate activities designed to stimulate and enhance a child’s educational experience in a Christian environment. It will also include the following: Chapel Service, Art, Story Time, Music Time, Center Time, Happy Feet (phys.ed), Spanish instruction and other age appropriate activities to help children learn and discover the world around them.  [return to top]

When is registration?

Currently Enrolled Registration: Friday, January 25, 9:30am-11:30 am in Preschool Galleria
Church Member Registration: Sunday, January 27, 12-2pm in the Preschool Galleria 

Community Registration: Wednesday, January 31, 9:30am-11:30 am in Preschool Galleria 

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What will the January registration be like?

We have chosen a “No Line” Lottery Registration as an equitable means for registering. Registration forms are available in the church office or online.

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How much is the registration fee?

The registration fee for the Weekday preschool is $150 per child. [return to top]

Will I get my money back?

  No, it is a non refundable registration fee [return to top]

What classes are available?  What is the tuition?

4 year old                 5 days      M-F          $250

4 year old                 4 days      M-Th        $230                                             

3 year old                 5 days      M-F          $250                                             

3 year old                 3 days      MWF       $185

2 year old                 3 days      MWF       $185

2 year old                 2 days      T/Th         $145

Young 2’s                2 days      T/Th         $150

**Honeybees (developmental level approximately 18-24 months)                                  MW          $150

**Butterflies (developmental level approximately 12-18 months)                                    MW          $150

**Caterpillars (developmental level approximately 9-12 months)                                    T/Th         $150

**Children enrolled in the Honeybees, Butterflies or Caterpillars classes will be placed in the class by the child’s developmental level NOT by age alone.  This decision will be made by the teacher and the Director to better serve each child and provide a safe environment for all enrolled.

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What curriculum will be used?

A well-rounded, developmentally appropriate curriculum is used at AFUMC Weekday Preschool and Mother's Morning Out.  A Christian environment provides the setting for our early childhood curriculum which offers opportunities for each child to grow in the awareness of the love of God.  Each day is structured to allow alternating time for busy active play and quiet activities. The Weekday Preschool children benefit from weekly Chapel and daily from Bright Beginnings by Gospel Light.  The Caterpillars, Butterflies andYoung 2's benefit daily from Little Blessings by Gospel Light.  [return to top]

Who is the director?

The director is Linsey Jarrett.  She has a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and a Master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction.  She is state certified to teach children in preschool through eighth grade.  [return to top]

Who is in charge of the Preschool?

The Athens First United Methodist Church is the parent organization of the Preschool.  The Weekday Preschool Board of Directors serves in an advisory role to the Weekday Preschool Director and employees.  The Board helps define policies and reviews matters of the budget, personnel, physical space, and program regulations.  Their mission is to guide, support and shepherd the weekday preschool.  Three classes of members who serve a three year term make up the board.  At this time the Board members are Harrison Lowery, Jennifer Chambers, Linsey Jarrett, Jennifer Foster, Robin Stewart, Ben Griffith, Amy Huckaby,  Dr. Bill Britt, and Rev. Martha Aenchbacher.      [return to top]

What is the training background of staff who will interact with my child?

Staff members will be trained in First Aid/CPR, the spiritual nurture of children, and the developmental needs of children.  Staff Development will be an ongoing part of the life of the Preschool.  [return to top]

What are the hours of the school?

The school day is 9 a.m.-12 p.m.,  with drop off at 8:45 a.m. and pick up at 12:15 p.m..    [return to top]

What types of meals do you serve?

Meals are not served; however, parents will be asked to provide healthy snacks for snack time.  [return to top]

What is your program philosophy?

The church and preschool believe that every child is a child of God and should have every opportunity to develop spiritually, socially, emotionally, cognitively, and physically to their highest potential in a loving environment.  Our emphasis on the spiritual nurture of children and staff makes the program at Athens First United Methodist Church Preschool a special one.  With a structured day and trained caregivers that follow the accreditation requirements for the National Association for the Education of Young Children and North Georgia United Methodist Preschool Association, we will provide every opportunity for a child to feel secure as they discover the world around them.  [return to top]

What happens when my child is absent?

Your child's teacher is the best contact for keeping you and your child informed about what the child missed and any follow up that might be helpful.  [return to top]

Do I still pay if my child is absent?

Yes.  Registration for your child is a commitment to a school year.  [return to top]

Do you take a vacation?

The school will for the most part observe the Clarke County School District calendar.      [return to top]

What is your application process?

We ask everyone to complete a Registration Form, become familiar with our "No Line Lottery" for class placement and submit a full application or enrollment form when admitted.  [return to top]

When can I tour your program?

Tours are on-going.  Call the Preschool office to make an appointment (543-2427).  [return to top]

"No Line" Lottery Process Defined

Preschool classes will be filled using a lottery system.  A registration form for each child and a fee of $150 for the Weekday Preschool on Sunday, January 27, 2008, for church members and Wednesday, January 31, 2008, for non-church members.  A lottery drawing will be held Monday, January 28 for church members and Thursday, February 1 for non-church members.  A number will then be assigned to each registration form.  Only the names of children with complete application information will be included.  Confirmation will be received by email or phone.  Applicants who do not receive confirmation will be placed on a waiting list in the order of the number drawn during the lottery.    [return to top]

Frequently Asked Questions