Little Learners, Big Adventures
As a parent, you want your child’s first school experience to be fun, nurturing, and set them up for future success. St. Joseph Preschool is the perfect place to begin that journey.
Three-Year-Old Program
Our three-year-old program focuses on building a strong foundation in social and emotional development while introducing early academic skills in a fun, nurturing environment. Children are encouraged to explore, collaborate, and express themselves through a variety of age-appropriate, hands-on experiences.
Four-Year-Old Program
Our four-year-old program offers a rich blend of academic readiness, social development, and faith-based learning. Designed to prepare children for kindergarten, this program deepens early literacy and math skills while nurturing independence and spiritual growth.
You can count on:
- Experienced, Dedicated, and Highly Qualified Staff
- Classrooms that Focus on the Whole Child: Socially, emotionally, spiritually, and academically.
- Developmentally-Based Daily Schedule: Tailored to meet the needs of each child.
- Hands-On, Fun Lessons: Designed to develop key skills through engaging activities.
- Offering multiple schedules from half day to full time to accommodate the needs of busy families.
- St. Joseph Preschool is licensed by the State of Michigan and accredited by the Michigan Non-Public School Accrediting Association (MNSAA).
- St. Joseph Preschool is licensed by the State of Michigan and accredited by the Michigan Non-Public School Accrediting Association (MNSAA).
Schedule
Our current programs include full day and half day options, ranging from 2 days to 5 days of Preschool.
Beginning with the 2026-2027, we will offer full time year-round Early Childhood Education and care.
Math
Hands-on learning to build understanding and confidence.
- Exploration & practice
- Critical thinking through performance tasks
- Parent support at home
English Language Arts
A multi-sensory approach to reading, writing, and communication.
- Integrated language skills
- Engaging, hands-on lessons
- Support for every learner
Science
Inquiry-based learning that sparks curiosity.
- Hands-on experiments
- Real-world problem solving
- Exploration for all levels
Theology
A Montessori-based approach to learning about the Catholic faith through the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd.
- Hands-on, faith-centered lessons
- Nurtures prayer, reflection, and understanding
- Builds a strong foundation in Catholic beliefs
Helpful Links
Three Year Old Staff
Kaylynn Fields
A proud St. Philip alumna, Kaylynn has dedicated her education and career to early childhood development. She completed the Calhoun Area Career Center Early Childhood Program, gaining hands-on experience and comprehensive knowledge in child development, discipline, health and safety, communication, and the planning and delivery of meaningful learning experiences.
In addition, Kaylynn holds a Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential and has spent the past two years at St. Joseph Preschool, where she has served as a trusted and valued member of the team.
Heidi Chmiel
Heidi is a seasoned educator, teaching in multiple grade levels throughout her longstanding career, most recently serving as a Kindergarten teacher at St. Joseph. Heidi holds a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and brings a wealth of experience to our Preschool program.
Four Year Old Staff
Kelly Francisco
Miss Kelly has taught preschool at St. Joseph Elementary for 15 years. Kelly is an alumna of St. Philip Catholic Central High School and graduated in 1999. Following high school, Miss Kelly graduated from Western Michigan University. Following graduation, Miss Kelly taught at Doris Klaussen Developmental Center for 5 year years, working with emotionally impaired children. She and her husband Jason have two children who both attend the Battle Creek Area Catholic Schools.
Karli Rutherford
Karli joined our St. Joseph staff as a classroom assistant two years ago, and found her calling! Karli brings humor, patience and joy to our classrooms. Since joining our preschool team, she has earned her Child Development Associates Credential (CDA)! Karli and her husband Zach have two children who attend St. Joseph.