Eastminster Preschool has provided quality preschool education to the Grand Rapids area children since 1973. Our curriculum is based on skills for kindergarten readiness. Our preschool curriculum has a play-based and child-centered focus.
The enriched and exciting learning environment offers unparalleled space for children to move and learn. It inspires a child’s natural curiosity, promotes self-discovered knowledge, encourages independence, and builds self-esteem.
Small Student to Teacher Ratios
Eastminster Preschool classes have low student/teacher ratios and are taught by teams of licensed and bachelor-degreed teachers. Our preschool teachers possess the highest level of education and experience available in the Grand Rapids area. Highly-qualified and enthusiastic, our teachers provide an curriculum which is developmentally-appropriate. Classes help to foster social, emotional, physical, and cognitive growth.
Our goal is for each child to leave preschool with enhanced knowledge, independence, self-confidence, creativity, self-control and a love for learning. They will attain the foundational skills for success in kindergarten and beyond.
Degreed & Licensed Teaching Staff
Wendy Zwiers
Director
- M.Ed. Western Michigan University; K-8 License with early childhood endorsement; B.A. Calvin College.
- Special Interests: music, children’s literature, story telling.
- 25 years experience.
Amy Karel
Director / Teacher
- K-6 License; B.A. Calvin College, Child Development Associate Credential (CDA).
- Special Interests: music & movement, language arts.
- 22 years experience.
Allison Kress
Teacher
- K-5 License; B.A. Ferris State University.
- Special Interests: art, sensory play, children’s literature.
- 20 years experience.
Kathy Wiegers
Teacher
- B.A in sociology, social work minor, Calvin College.
- Lead teacher, Daycare Center, Michigan licensed home daycare provider.
- Special Interests: art, children’s literature, social development.
- 24 years experience.
Melissa Marsh
Teacher
- M.Ed. Grand Valley State University; K-8 License, B.A. Michigan State University.
- Special interests: differentiated instruction, children’s literature, reading readi-ness.
- 20 years experience.
Anne VandenBerg
Teacher
- Child Development Associate Credential (CDA).
- Special Interests: creative movement, social-emotional development.
- 25 years experience.
Becky van der Woerd
Teacher
- K-6 License; B.A. Calvin College.
- Special Interests: art, social development, and reading.
- 16 years experience.
Jessica Gragg
Teacher
- B.A. Calvin College.
- 7 years experience as a preschool aide.