A Foundation for Learning and Life
Our Preschool runs from Infant Care (3mo-2yrs) through school age (4 years). We have designed our program to foster character development, spiritual growth, and academic learning that will prepare every child for a life of learning and following Jesus.
Within our Christ-centered environment, each child is known as an individual learner. Our outstanding preschool staff make space for self-guided learning and creativity so that students’ first learning experiences are positive. Teachers ensure that students practice persistence and problem-solving, developing critical thinking skills and a growth mindset from an early age.
Like all the programs at SJCS, we value a strong parent partnership and regular communication. This supports our church-home-school approach and is the key to student success. Please contact us to start your partnership with SJCS today.
Safe & Loving Environment
To ensure that your child reaches developmental benchmarks, we have five developmentally-appropriate classrooms that will serve each child’s distinct needs.
- Infant Care Center (Caterpillar and Butterfly Classes) - 3 months - 2 years
- Grasshopper Class - 2-year-olds (potty training room)
- Dragonfly Class - 3-year-olds (fully potty-trained)
- Firefly Class - 4-year-olds
Each classroom offers ample space for play, learning, meals, and naps. Our campus also features two playground areas that are protected with fencing and available for the exclusive use of our preschool students. We ensure that all facilities, including bathrooms and playgrounds, meet the health and safety requirements of the California Child Care Licensing Program.
Dedicated & Well-Trained Staff
We have extremely high standards for our preschool teachers who love God, love kids, and are well-trained in child development. Staff complete new teacher orientation and regular professional development to stay current on best practices. By incorporating the best practices from these fields into our traditional-model preschool, we are able to meet the needs of each individual student.
Curriculum
We believe the best way to help children succeed in learning is to teach them to be creative, confident thinkers. This means offering each child an opportunity for hands-on exploration and discovery, which in turn helps build lifelong critical-thinking skills and foster confidence.
SJCS Preschool utilizes the Get Set for School Curriculum ("Handwriting Without Tears"), which incorporates the main core competencies–reading, writing, and mathematics. Lessons are flexible to accommodate students’ unique development and build from simple to more complex tasks. This approach ensures that children develop basic readiness skills and are prepared academically for their school career.
Essential Learning Outcomes
Sample Class Schedules
Learning Outcomes
By the end of our preschool program, students meet or exceed these Essential Learning Outcomes
Contact SJCS Preschool
Marlene Allen
Preschool Director
Professional Biography
My entire career has been spent educating young children. My passion for education began as a Teacher Assistant, and through my commitment, and a deep love for children, I advanced into leadership roles, ultimately serving as a director. I have been working in the field of Early Childhood Education for 20+ years. I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Child and Adolescence Development and a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education. I have been blessed to work in Christian Schools throughout my career and have witnessed the lasting impact that Christian Education can have on children, families, and communities.
Personal Biography
I was born and raised in San Jose. My husband Bryan and I have been married since 2002 and are blessed with 2 daughters, Makayla and Taylor. I love trying new recipes and hosting people in our home. The beach is my happy place and I love just spending time with my family. We have lots of fun adventures together.
Christian Philosophy of Education
I believe that a Christian early childhood program should reflect the love, grace, and truth of Jesus in all interactions. Biblical values such as kindness, respect, compassion, honesty, service, and forgiveness should be naturally woven into daily routines and learning experiences. As an educator, I am committed to creating a welcoming environment where every child and family feels seen, valued, and supported. My goal has been to create educational spaces that reflect Christ’s love, promote excellence in learning, and encourage children to grow into confident, compassionate, and faithful individuals. I believe every child is a unique creation of God, made in His image and deeply loved by Him, and I desire for children to recognize their purpose as children of God.
Stephanie Reynolds
Preschool Communications & Engagement Manager
Professional Biography
I graduated from the University of San Francisco in 2011 with a degree in Design and a minor in Business. Although my career path led me away from design, I found my passion in program and operations management, spending more than a decade in the tech industry. There, I developed strong skills in clear communication, process improvement, and supporting teams. I look forward to strengthening the connection between families and the classroom while supporting our wonderful staff and preschool community.
Personal Biography
I’m a San Jose native and grew up attending Catholic schools, which helped lay the foundation for my lifelong faith. I’m thankful to now be part of another faith-based community at SJCS. My husband, Chris, and I have been married since 2016, and we have three curious and joyful daughters who keep us on our toes and fill our home with laughter. As a family, we love exploring local parks, trying new restaurants, and taking on DIY projects together.
Christian Philosophy of Education
I believe Christian education nurtures the whole child by caring for their heart, mind, and spirit. When faith is woven into every aspect of learning, students begin to understand that faith is not just something they study, but something they live out each day. I see the beauty of this in my own children and the way it shapes their learning, character, and faith. Through Christian education, students grow in knowledge while also learning to know and love God.