Being There
March 31, 2026
…Jesus said, “Let the children come to me, and do not stop them, for it is to such as these that the kingdom of heaven belongs.”
~Matthew 19:18
Fond Preschool Memories: From Pastor’s Kid to Preschool Director
Church has always been a second home to me. Growing up, my dad served on staff at the church where I attended preschool, and by the time I reached middle school, my mom had joined the staff as communications director. As you can imagine, I spent a great deal of my childhood within those familiar walls.
Some of my earliest and most cherished memories come from that preschool — one that feels very much like our beloved Grace Garden. I remember teachers who made me feel deeply loved, especially during those sometimes tearful drop-off moments. Like many young children, I struggled with separation anxiety and needed a little extra reassurance. Together, my teachers and my mom came up with a simple but meaningful plan. Each morning at drop-off, my mom would kiss the palms of my hands and say, “Here are some extra kisses for when you miss me — keep them in your pocket for later.” That small ritual made a big difference. Over time, drop-offs became easier, and with the gentle support of my teachers, I settled into a routine that helped me feel safe and secure.
My preschool teachers created a loving and safe environment where my entire family felt cared for. They made learning joyful and classrooms inviting, and they took the time to truly know each child and their family. That intentional care left a lasting impression on me and sparked a lifelong love for both education and the church. I also remember my dad leading weekly chapel services. On Sundays, he would often lead Children’s Time, guitar in hand, teaching us songs that stayed with me long after childhood. Those moments made both chapel and Sunday worship especially meaningful and helped nurture my early faith.
As someone who has both experienced and taught early childhood education, I firmly believe that our earliest experiences help shape who we become. Preschool teachers play a vital role in laying the foundation for a child’s future. By creating environments where children feel safe, loved, and free to explore, they nurture not only learning but also confidence and faith. My own preschool experience helped shape the path of my life: the love I experienced eventually led me to spend eleven years teaching preschool, followed by five years serving as a Children and Youth Director. When my husband was accepted into graduate school at UT, we knew it was time for a new chapter. Through family connections at Saint John’s, I learned about an opening for Assistant Director at Grace Garden. Two years later, I feel blessed to have come full circle, serving once again in a church preschool.
I hope my preschool teachers know just how impactful they were in my life. Likewise, it's important to me that our Grace Garden teachers know and understand the difference they make every single day. If you see them, I encourage you to take a moment to share your appreciation. If you are interested in volunteering or supporting Grace Garden Preschool, we would love to connect with you. All of us at Grace Garden — staff and families alike — are deeply grateful for the continued support of the Saint John’s community. Because of this church, every child and family who walks through our doors can feel known, loved, and safe.
