We believe in investing in the next generation.
Mission Statement
To provide each child with a safe and positive, child-centered learning environment where they will be able to start building their foundation to become a life-long learner.
Philosophy
Building Blocks Preschool believes that children enter school at many different stages of physical, social, emotional and cognitive development. This belief drives us to be committed to a philosophy that develops confidence, independence, self-respect, and self-discipline within children, as well as a respect and love for others. During the preschool years children learn through discovery, purposeful play, and social interaction with peers.
An open and cooperative relationship between home and school is essential. We believe that parents and teachers together provide learning experiences and models, which build positive attitudes, promote children’s potential and enhance school success.
Our Commitment to You
The Staff will provide love, acceptance and an enriched learning environment to facilitate the total growth and development of your child. As a Christian School, we teach who Jesus is, what He did for us and what our relationship to Him is. The children will become better acquainted with the Word of God through Bible stories and daily prayer. Our daily routine follows the High Scope Curriculum and consists of independent, child-led activities as well as teacher directed group games, music time, meals, outside time and projects.
We look forward to an exciting child care experience with your child! If you ever have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact us.
May God bless you and your family abundantly this year!
In Christ’s Service,
Ms. Clark
Meet Our Staff
Rachael Clark
Building Blocks Preschool Director
As Director of our preschool, I would like to start by saying thank you for considering us to care for your family; there are many wonderful childcare centers in our area and I am so grateful to lead ours. Building Blocks Preschool and Childcare Center works hard to provide the best care possible for our students following all licensing requirements, the High Scope Curriculum, Conscious Discipline Social and Emotional Curriculum and tons of love. Our program strives for consistent high-quality care and clear communication with our families. We partner with local education sources for training and coaching of our staff so that we may take the best possible care of our students. We are thankful for the support from the St. Joseph County ISD and Southwest Great Start to Quality.
A little about me; I have lived in both Washington State and Michigan during my youth, but have always found Michigan to be my home. I enjoy spending time with my family at the sandy beaches, apple orchards and beautiful parks throughout Southwest Michigan. When I’m not at the center, I enjoy singing, playing recreational volleyball or going camping. I graduated from Western Michigan University in 2017 with a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and an Early Childhood Education endorsement. My time at Western allowed me to experience both elementary school classrooms and preschools facilities through internships, observations and volunteering opportunities. In 2016, I began working in the Battle Creek area with three- and four-year-olds, teaching both Head Start and GSRP classrooms. I also spent time in Jackson, working closely with the Jackson County ISD and immersing myself in high quality training and coaching opportunities. I gained experience and a better understanding of child psychology and the Conscious Discipline curriculum, giving me necessary skills for helping children manage their “big feelings”. I enjoy working closely with the staff to model positive adult to child interactions and sharing my childcare wisdom with them. I am humbled to have the support of New Hope Assembly and their entire congregation as we continue to improve our everyday operations. The legacy of Building Block Preschool and Child Care Center helps us stand out amongst the other childcare options and I am thankful to work with such passionate and positive people. I know we are making a difference in children’s lives everyday by loving them and giving them the best start to life; keeping Christ in mind and in our hearts.
I look very forward to connecting with you and your little ones. Please contact me through email for the fastest response. Thank you!
Rachael Clark
bbp@newhopetr.com
Mindy Swartz
GSRP Director, Lead Teacher
My name is Mindy Swartz and I have been teaching four year olds at Building Blocks since the fall of 2013. I am the Lead GSRP Teacher and also the GSRP Director for Building Blocks. I previously taught a GSRP class in Swartz Creek, Michigan.
I grew up in Swartz Creek, Michigan and still visit family there frequently. I moved to Three Rivers in May of 2014 when I married my husband, Jon. We have three dogs at home who keep us on our toes. We both enjoy the outdoors and love spending time with our families. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, sewing, gardening and being outdoors.
I graduated from Maranatha Baptist Bible College, located in Wisconsin. My bachelor’s degree is in Elementary Education with minors in Early Childhood Education and Special Education. I fell in love with this age group after receiving a full time job teaching in a GSRP classroom. I love seeing all the different personalities of the children and watching them grow throughout the school year. It is a true blessing for me to have this opportunity to work at Building Blocks.