Our Preschool Pathways Classroom
Our Preschool Pathways program provides a “bridge” between our Early Preschool and Preschool classrooms for children whose birthdays will ultimately miss the cutoff date for kindergarten entrance. By identifying those children early, we can help them stay with a consistent group of peers through preschool, pre-K and kindergarten.
Nurturing Active Minds, Healthy Bodies, and Happy Hearts®
Health & Safety
Their health & safety. Our top priority.
Our school is committed to high standards of safety and cleanliness as we create a caring and nurturing environment where children can thrive.
- Requiring any children or staff with fever to return home and stay home until fever-free for at least 24 hours
- Frequent disinfecting and sanitizing of high-touch toys
- Frequent handwashing by children and staff, embedded in our curriculum and daily staff protocols
- Training teachers on common signs of illness in children, and placing signage in every classroom to keep signs of illness top of mind
- Individual cots and blankets provided for each child, laundered weekly
- Ensuring appropriate teacher-student classroom ratios
- Continuous health & safety training for our staff, including first aid and CPR certification
- Maintaining an up-to-date and customized Safe School Plan posted in all classrooms for easy teacher access
- Monthly emergency drills to ensure children and staff are prepared for emergencies
Our Preschool Pathways Classroom Teachers & Staff
Bethany Zielinski
Hello! My name is Bethany. My journey with children began through babysitting, working as a nanny, and volunteering in my church’s Vacation Bible School program. Each of these experiences helped me discover how much I enjoy supporting children as they learn and grow.
I am a proud graduate of West Frankfort High School, where I completed my education in 2018. As I continue my journey in childcare, I bring a fresh perspective and a strong commitment to creating a positive, nurturing learning environment for every child.
What I love most about working with children is witnessing their incredible journey of development. From their earliest moments of curiosity to the full bloom of their unique personalities, it’s a joy to watch them grow and reach new milestones every day.
One of my favorite children’s books is The Rainbow Fish. I love how it captures the importance of kindness, sharing, and embracing what makes each of us special.
Outside of the classroom, I have a unique connection to the aquatic world — I have three pet fish! These little aquatic friends add a peaceful sense of joy and tranquility to my life.
Alisha Shaw
Hello! My name is Alisha. My journey with children began at the age of ten, and by the time I turned sixteen, I had officially stepped into the world of professional childcare. Over the years, I’ve found immense joy and fulfillment working with young minds and watching them learn, grow, and shine.
I hold a Bachelor of Arts in English with coursework in Educational Studies, as well as a degree in Graphic Design, which brings a creative touch to my approach in the classroom. One of my favorite things about working with children is the perfect blend of spontaneity and structure — every day brings something new while maintaining the comforting rhythm of routine.
My favorite children’s book is Room on the Broom, which holds a special place in my heart.
Outside of the classroom, I’m an avid animal lover and have cared for a wide variety of pets — from rats to cows and everything in between! My love for animals extends into my personal life, where I find joy in their companionship and caring for them brings me peace and happiness.
