Thunderbird Preschool

Our History

Located in Crystal Lake, Illinois, Thunderbird Preschool has been a pioneer in early childhood education for over 50 years. Founded in 1965 by Claire Koch, a passionate advocate for early childhood education, our preschool has been committed to providing a nurturing and engaging environment for young children. When Claire passed away in 1971, her husband Bud, a former civil engineer, left his job to devote himself to the preschool, ensuring the continuation of Claire's vision. Bud's dedication and love for the preschool were matched only by his wife Betty, a Crystal Lake teacher, who joined him in 1973. Together, they built a legacy of excellence in early childhood education.

Our Philosophy

At Thunderbird Preschool, we believe that it is an honor to educate your child. We understand that young children thrive when they feel safe, loved, and supported. Our philosophy is built on the principles of trust, love of learning, positive self-image, and respect for others. We strive to create an environment that fosters social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth in every child. We believe that collaboration between parents and educators is essential to a child's development, and we are committed to working closely with families to support each child's unique needs.

Our Teachers

Our teachers are the heart of our preschool, and we take great pride in the dedication and passion they bring to their work. Our teachers are committed to creating an environment where children feel valued, respected, and encouraged to learn and grow. With expertise in early childhood education and a deep understanding of child development, our teachers are equipped to meet the diverse needs of our students.

What Our Families Say

We have been fortunate enough to have numerous families whose children have thrived at Thunderbird Preschool. Their positive experiences and glowing testimonials are a testament to our commitment to providing the highest quality early childhood education.

"I was hesitant to leave my child at school without a parent, but Thunderbird was exceedingly understanding and caring throughout the transition. My daughter loves it there, and I highly recommend it!" - Dayana E

"Thunderbird is truly a special place. They've been a staple in the Crystal Lake community for generations, and I hope they continue to thrive for many more years." - Benjamin W

"We've had an amazing experience at Thunderbird with both of our kids! The teachers are kind and really seem to care about the kids." - Beth T

Our Programs and Services

At Thunderbird Preschool, we offer a variety of programs designed to meet the unique needs and interests of our students. We provide half-day preschool programs for children ages 2-5, emphasizing hands-on learning and interactive experiences. Our curriculum is carefully designed to promote social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth in a safe and supportive environment.

Contact Us

For more information about our programs, to schedule a tour, or general questions, please contact us today at (815) 459-2266. We look forward to meeting you and your family!