Cary Methodist Pre-School

We are a dedicated team of educators and staff who have been serving the community since 1973. Our school provides children with a Christian environment that is developmentally appropriate and focuses on the whole child, emphasizing socialization and learning through interaction with his/her environment.

Our curriculum incorporates a variety of learning activities based on the Illinois Early Learning Standards. The purpose of Cary Methodist Preschool is to provide a Christian environment in which children experience positive "hands-on" learning that fosters spiritual, cognitive, social, emotional and physical development.

Classroom activities provide developmentally appropriate interactive experiences, which allow children to explore and discover the world around them. We believe in nurturing the whole child and provide opportunities for them to grow and develop in a loving and supportive environment.

Our Philosophy

Our philosophy is to provide children with a Christian environment that is developmentally appropriate and focuses on the whole child, emphasizing socialization and learning through interaction with his/her environment. Our curriculum incorporates a variety of learning activities based on the Illinois Early Learning Standards.

Cary Methodist Preschool is licensed by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services and meets or exceeds the minimum standards set by them for: Facility, Staff, Health and safety, Nutrition, Ratios, Record keeping.

Our Curriculum

Our curriculum is based on the development of the whole child, emphasizing socialization and learning through active involvement with his/her environment. In all classes, teachers provide developmentally appropriate activities and materials to help children learn and grow at their own pace. Teachers combine structured daily routines with free-choice activity times, allowing children to explore their own creativity while relying on the comfort of predictable routines.

Each session includes a circle time, center activities, snack, story time, music and fine and large motor activities. Circle Time is an opportunity for the children to practice their listening skills as the teacher and the children share ideas and discuss the topic of the day. Center Activities allow the children to choose from a variety of activities in the following centers; dramatic play, blocks, books, manipulatives, art, math, science, and a sand and water table. Story and Music Time promotes creative expression, listening skills and language development. Large Motor activities include outside play on our climbing equipment. If the weather doesn't permit outdoor play, we often use indoor equipment such as the parachute, games with balls or beanbags, or an active music activity. The Writing Table is an area where markers, crayons, pencils, scissors, and paper are available for children to use on a daily basis.

Our Staff

Our staff is dedicated to providing a nurturing and supportive environment for your child. Our teachers are passionate about helping your child grow and develop and are always ready to help them with any challenges they face.

Laura Collier - Director & Teacher - Pre-K 4 & 5 Year Olds

Mrs. Collier lives in Cary with her husband, son and two daughters. She graduated from Roosevelt University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education and has been working with young children for 25+ years. When not in the classroom, Mrs. Collier enjoys spending time with her family and friends, and also reading, going on walks, baking and shopping.

Amy Donlea - Director Assistant & Teacher - 3 Year Olds & T/Th Pre-K 4&5's

Mrs. Donlea lives in Cary with her husband and two teenage children. She is a graduate of Drake University and achieved her Masters in Teaching and Leadership from St. Xavier University. Mrs. Donlea taught 3rd grade for nine years. She also has several years' experience as a kindergarten assistant teacher and teaching three-year-old's. When not in the classroom Mrs. Donlea can be found watching her kids cheerleading and football games, reading and shopping.

Amanda Elliott - Teacher - 2 Year Olds

Mrs. Elliott lives in Cary with her husband and two sons. She is a graduate of Illinois State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood Education. Mrs. Elliott has been teaching for over 20 years, including 10 years at Cary Methodist Preschool. She is a mother of two sons and enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and traveling.