Newport Center
United Methodist Preschool
This year was extra special as we welcomed Micah, our adorable three-toed box turtle, to the school family. Watching Micah visit classrooms, you could see the children light up with excitement as they took turns caring for her, learning firsthand about responsibility and compassion. Micah quickly became a muse for creativity—students made heartfelt books and colorful artwork inspired by her gentle presence.
Mrs. Johnson, our Outdoor Classroom Specialist, made nature journaling come alive for our four-year-olds. The kids eagerly observed earthworms and beetles, jotting down their discoveries and proudly sharing them at Open House on a documentation board. It was a joy to witness their curiosity blossom!
Some of our most memorable art moments this year included painting with pine trimmings and sitting outdoors for still life sessions beside the pollination gardens. We saw baby birds hatching from eggs in a plant on our art patio. Children watched the parents visit and care for their chicks, enjoying the lovely sounds. The art patio was turned into a quiet area so the birds could tend to their young, and the children were able to view photos of the process.
The Everlast Wooden Blocks sparked endless creativity; children teamed up, assigned roles, and built imaginative structures together. Our outdoor reading nooks have become a favorite spot. Seeing so many children gravitate toward these cozy corners, we decided to expand them, adding new crates and soft pillows. Now, these spaces are not only perfect for imaginative play but also serve as inviting “Peace Spaces” where students can relax for some calm quiet recentering time.
Our Open House truly felt like a celebration! We were thrilled to welcome not only our current families but also new faces from the neighborhood, and the turnout was fantastic. It was wonderful to watch everyone explore our children’s gardens and wander through the outdoor nature yards, sharing smiles and stories together. The sense of community was evident, and we loved seeing families connect and enjoy all the special spaces our students get to enjoy daily.
Learn more about this classroom on their certification page!
