Kay Stricklan founded the First Step Preschool 20 years ago while the Rev. Nick Natelli was pastor of the Black Forest Community Church (United Church of Christ), which owns the nonprofit preschool. The church’s mission: to provide a preschool that’s open to everyone.The preschool meets at 6845 Shoup Road in Morast Hall, named for Peggy Morast, who was an active member of the church and community. The preschool uses the Montessori hands-on approach to learning for math, phonics, science, art and drama, combining it with Abeka Christian Curriculum for Bible stories. The program at First Step also includes Spanish, brain gym (which builds gross motor skills using music) and visits from Pastor David Knight of the Black Forest Community Church.Geanina Brown is the director of First Step. Originally from Costa Rica, Brown studied in Germany and has 10 years experience with Montessori programs. “We’re not 100 percent Montessori,” Brown said. “We think we take the best of several curriculums. “Each teacher has her own specialties and we rotate.” Like the church that owns it, First Step Preschool encourages students and teachers to be creative and think for themselves. Leaders of the church and preschool teachers stress the importance of diversity while maintaining Christian values. Students are accepted from all denominations and religions, and Knight describes the school as “a religiously welcoming and warm place.” He said much of the credit is due to Brown’s leadership and enthusiasm. “In one year, she’s completely energized the preschool,” Knight said.The preschool currently has 58 students, ages 3 and 4. All students attend in the morning, but not all the children attend every day. In August, the preschool will begin having both morning and afternoon sessions, so there are plenty of openings for the fall.The program costs vary according to the age of the child and the number of sessions per week.For more information, call 495-0146.
