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.

The Creative Curriculum® System for Preschoolers is a research based system that combines curriculum, assessment, professional development, and family connection resources. It is approved by the State of Michigan for meeting the necessary guidelines in all aspects of preschool learning and development. We also utilize Voyages and Little Lambs Bible-based lessons.

Wraparound curriculum is designed for a mixed age group of 3-5 year olds, and with focus on process art and hands-on science, Wraparound enhances and complements their preschool curriculum learning experience.

Weather permitting; children will have outdoor activity daily. We have a well-equipped playground and bike path 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 space allows.

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. A foundation in faith and the importance of Christian core values such as mutual respect, cooperation, kindness to others, honesty, positive choices, and love of God and family is woven through the day’s activities.

Field trips are a fun way to learn. Several are scheduled for each class such as apple orchard, a theater production, maple sugaring, dairy farm, zoo, dance studio, and fire department. Parents and siblings are welcome.

Teachers use methods of positive reinforcement that encourage students to practice self-control and cooperation while building self-esteem. Parents are encouraged to work with teachers to address any behavioral issues their child may have.

Parents are welcome to drop by at any time to visit while their child is in class. Assisting in the classroom is a unique opportunity for a parent to observe their child as they interact with the teacher and peers.

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. Occasional target fundraising for special enrichment activities or the purchase of new equipment helps keep down the cost of tuition. Participation is appreciated.

If a place is available for your child, a deposit (1/9th of tuition and not in addition to tuition) is due thirty (30) days after receipt of your Enrollment Application to secure placement for your child. Unless other arrangements have been made, the remaining balance is split into six (6) payments for children in preschool only and nine (9) payments for preschool students in Wraparound.

There are a limited number of scholarships available through the Sally E. Grushon Scholarship Fund for families that meet the financial criteria.