Our teachers possess degrees in education combined with years of experience teaching young children. We require all teachers to complete continuing education courses annually. Our staff is CPR /First Aid Certified and fully screened through the Michigan State Police (ICHAT) and The Family Independence Agency (FIA). We are licensed through the Department of Human Services.

A research based curriculum rich in developmentally appropriate activities, materials, and equipment is included in our preschool programs. Some sample activities include, Handwriting without Tears, hands-on science, music and movement, God’s World, crafts and process art, as well as cooking. A variety of guests visit to share areas of special interest such as a physician, police officer, musicians, master gardener, and the Zoomobile from Binder Park Zoo.

Enhanced learning opportunities and enrichment activities, which are appropriate for a mixed age group, complement preschool curriculum while providing extended care.

Weather permitting, children will have outdoor activity daily. We have a well-equipped playground in a natural tree rich environment adjacent to Kleinstuck preserve where nature hikes are enjoyed by our students.

Wraparound hours may be increased at any time when availability allows. You are financially obligated for the wraparound hours agreed upon in your Enrollment Contract even if you chose not to use them.

Children of other faiths and those who have no experience with faith are welcome. The church calendar (Advent, Christmas, Lent, Easter) is incorporated into lessons and Bible stories such as the Creation, Noah and the flood, Daniel in the Lion’s Den are also taught. Christian values and morals are woven throughout the day’s activities.

The Yellow Bugs (3s) and Orange Bugs (4s) classes generally take 3-4 field trips per year while the Red Bugs (4s & 5s) and Grasshoppers (Wraparound) take monthly field trips. Examples are an apple orchard, a theater production geared toward children, maple syruping, dairy farm, and fire department.

Teachers use methods of positive reinforcement that encourage students to practice self-control and cooperation while building self-esteem. Verbal reminders are given for inappropriate behavior and a brief timeout within the classroom is implemented if behavior continues. Parents are encouraged to work with teachers to address any behavioral issues their child may have.

Parents are welcome to assist in the classroom. For the safety of our children and staff, background checks through the Family Independence Agency (FIA) and Internet Criminal History Access Tool (ICHAT) are required before parents may help in the classroom.

Nutritious snacks and beverages are provided. Parents may bring special treats to share on birthdays and holidays. If your child has food allergies, you may provide a supply of acceptable food substitutes to keep on hand.

Hilltop is a nonprofit outreach ministry of Zion Lutheran Church. Target fundraising for special enrichment activities or the purchase of new equipment helps keep down the cost of tuition. Your participation is appreciated.

If a place is available for your child, a nonrefundable deposit (1/9th of tuition) is due thirty (30) days after receipt of your Enrollment Application in the office to secure placement for your child. Placement is on a first come first serve basis. The remainder of tuition is split into either 6 (preschool only and preschool with Wraparound students) or 9 (preschool with Wraparound students) installments beginning August 1.

There are a limited number of scholarships available through the Sally E. Grushon Scholarship Fund for families that meet the financial criteria. Scholarship applications may be picked up at the school office or downloaded from the following link: Sally E. Grushon Scholarship Application.