The Learning Tree Preschool began as a vision in 1981-1982, receiving a small grant in early years from the North Texas Conference Visionaries Program, and has now ministered to over 2,000 children and family members in Cooke County in it’s thirty-first year of service.
The school will begin its 31st year as a licensed Child-Care Center with the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Classes meet each Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, September through May, following the Gainesville Independent School District holiday schedule. Morning classes are held from 9:00 to 11:30 a.m.; afternoon classes are held from 12:30 to 3:00 p.m.
The purpose of the school is to provide settings and experiences for initial academic learning, social adjustment, and character development in a specifically Christian atmosphere. One of the goals of the teaching staff is to help each child develop a positive self image.
One special feature of The Learning Tree is the small class size it maintains. Thirteen is the maximum number of students allowed in any class. Also, while each six classes has a lead teacher, classroom aides are on hand for extra assistance and more personal contact with each student.
The high level of enthusiasm of the staff members is another special feature. Many hours are spent planning and preparing activities which will be enjoyable, interesting, and challenging for the students.
Enrollment is held in the Spring for the following school year, and FUMC members are given the first opportunity to enroll their children or grandchildren. Many of the years that the school has been in operation, a waiting list has become necessary because of it's popularity.
The Learning Tree staff consists of Connie Hoberer, director; Donna White and Andrea Luster, teachers of the three-year-olds; Barbara Bloom and Ann Porter, teachers of the Four-year-olds; Mary Robertson and Kristi Bloom, classroom aides.
For further information contact Connie Hoberer, Director, 665-3753 or the church office, 665-3926.
