Discover Trinity Preschool
Our Philosophy
Trinity Preschool Alexandria, a ministry of Trinity United Methodist Church, offers a play-based curriculum that encourages hands-on exploration and discovery. Our half-day program, with the option to extend until 4 pm, is dedicated to fostering child development, building strong family connections, nurturing a sense of community, and celebrating diversity. We accept children of all racial, ethnic, and religious backgrounds.
We believe...
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Each child is capable, curious, takes initiative, and represents knowledge in a variety of ways.
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Children learn best through play; and through play, children grow physically, socially, emotionally, spiritually, and intellectually.
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We are loved by God.
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When we know we are loved for who we are, we grow in gratitude, compassion, empathy, and acceptance for ourselves, our families, and our community.
Our Core Values
Our focus is on the children
Our preschool supports each child in their journey to reach their full potential intellectually, socially, emotionally, physically and spiritually. We respect the wonder of childhood and remain focused on guiding each child's individual development. Our program emphasizes the best interests and safety of all children who walk through our doors.
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Our foundation is the church
Our preschool is a ministry of Trinity United Methodist Church and we care for all children. In Matthew 19:14, Jesus says, “Let the little children come to me, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.” We base our work on clear principles and actively support the faith component of child development through regular chapel sessions.
Our service is to the family & community
Our preschool believes that children are best understood and supported in the context of family, culture, community and society and we respect the dignity and uniqueness of each child, family member, and colleague. We strive to serve through faithful care of our children, and by seeking opportunities to connect with our community. We celebrate diversity and extend hospitality and respect to all.
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Our mindset is one of growth & opportunity
Our preschool is committed to a continual pattern of growth and development in order to remain in the top tier of early childhood education providers in the region. We encourage the development and implementation of appropriate curriculum and require faculty trainings which reinforce intentional continuity for all classes.
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Our strength is in relationships
Our preschool believes excellence is achieved for our students, staff, families, and all individuals involved in the preschool community by building relationships based on mutual trust and respect. These relationships are built through clear and honest communication.
Our Curriculum
At Trinity Preschool we follow Creative Curriculum. Based on research, our curriculum includes objectives that address all areas learning and development. It encourages children to learn through play, art, music, and storytelling while fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration. We integrate lessons that connect literacy, math, science, and social studies into cohesive, meaningful experiences.
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In Creative Curriculum, the teacher acts as a facilitator, guiding children to discover their interests and build on them through structured and open-ended activities. We value each child's unique ways of learning and expressing knowledge by supporting their social, emotional, physical, and intellectual development. The curriculum often includes opportunities for self-expression, outdoor learning, and projects that allow children to take the lead in their educational journey.
Emphasis is placed on...
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exploration, imagination, hands-on and play-based learning.
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promotion of independence, self-expression, composure and confidence.
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developmentally appropriate goals and objectives for children within four main categories of interest: social/emotional, physical, cognitive and language.
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a balance between teacher-directed instruction and child-initiated learning
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responding to each child's learning style and building on their strengths and interests.
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maintaining best practices in teaching, learning, and the content standards developed by states and professional organizations.
Meet The Team
Trinity Preschool is led by our Head of School and is comprised of an office manager, and teachers. Many of our teachers have a degree in early childhood education or related field, and some hold graduate certifications and or advanced degrees. Faculty members participate in on-going trainings to remain current with the most recent developments in early childhood education. Faculty meetings are held throughout the year for the purpose of information gathering, reviewing policies and procedures, brainstorming, planning, and evaluation. All faculty and staff are certified in First Aid and CPR.
Ms. Claire Maucieri
Head of School
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Ms. Alva Smircina
Lead Teacher
Busy Bees
Ms. Sofia Diaz
Assistant Teacher
Ducks & Busy Bees
Ms. Natalie Maia
Assistant Teacher
Helping Hands Pre-K
Pastor Grace Han
Trinity United Methodist Church
Ms. Mary Anderson
Lead Teacher
Owls​
Ms. Cathleen Kunik
Assistant Teacher
Busy Bees
Ms. Beth Tiegs
Music & Movement Teacher
Ms. Bryn Baisely
Office Administrator
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Ms. Jaime Dawson
Lead Teacher
Helping Hands Pre-K
Ms. Elizabeth Turnbull
Assistant Teacher
Owls
Ms. Courtney Houser
Lead Teacher
Ducks
Ms. Kesha Bridges
Assistant Teacher
Ducks​
Ms. Brenda Hawkins
Assistant Teacher
Owls
HISTORY
Trinity Preschool was established in the late 1960s by Trinity United Methodist Church members who were mothers of preschool-aged children. The school was founded to offer children the opportunity to grow and learn in a caring, Christian environment. The school has grown significantly since its founding, becoming one of the larger weekday preschools in Alexandria. We remain true to the ideals of our founders, offering children a place to learn through play and grow in their faith.