Spotlight on Good Shepherd Lutheran Preschool: Faith, Learning, and Community in Raleigh, NC
For over 30 years, Good Shepherd Lutheran Preschool has been a place where faith and learning come together in a nurturing and inclusive environment. Located in North Raleigh, this Christ-centered school believes that children learn best through play, guided by dedicated teachers who nurture not only their academic growth but also their spiritual foundation. When asked about the preschool, Director Yvette DeSilva had this to say,
“Our mission is to provide a Christ-centered early childhood preschool through faith-based education and service in a nurturing, inclusive environment…Our teachers relate education to the child’s understanding about God and Christian life so that the spiritual and developmental aspects of the curriculum become a foundation for a lifelong faith.”
Through engaging activities, structured learning, and a strong sense of community, the preschool provides a warm and welcoming space for young learners to grow.
A Curriculum Rooted in Faith and Service
At Good Shepherd Lutheran Preschool, education is about more than just the ABCs—it’s about shaping compassionate hearts. The school incorporates two Christian preschool curricula: Bright Beginnings – Exploring God’s World and O Come Let Us Worship. These programs have helped them ensure that children develop spiritually alongside their academic learning.
Beyond the classroom, students are encouraged to serve their community. From decorating placemats for Meals on Wheels to collecting egg cartons for a local food pantry, even the youngest children learn the importance of giving back. The preschoolers also spread joy by visiting a local retirement community, where they sing and interact with residents—a favorite tradition that brightens everyone’s day.
“Our 4’s and 5 year old preschool children visit local retirement community a couple of times a year. The residents also enjoy watching out their windows when the kids have their Halloween parade.”
Recent Recognition and Growth
Good Shepherd Lutheran Preschool’s dedication to excellence was recently recognized in Wake Living Magazine (pg. 35). This acknowledgment highlights the school’s commitment to providing a high-quality early childhood education that fosters both faith and academic success.
The preschool has also made strides in accessibility by offering scholarships to families in need, further reinforcing the school’s mission of inclusivity and support.
“Our program has also provided scholarships to families in need. In January, we had Preschool Sunday when the preschoolers sang and the loose change offering was donated to the scholarship fund.”
The Power of Community and ELEA’s Support
As an ELEA member school, Good Shepherd Lutheran Preschool benefits from a wealth of resources. Whether it’s accessing school safety and emergency preparedness materials or guidance on fostering diversity and justice, the ELEA provides invaluable support.
“This year, our focus has been on making sure every family knows that ‘ALL ARE WELCOME’ in our community…ELEA’s resources have been incredibly helpful in shaping how we continue to foster an inclusive environment.”
Additionally, the preschool is in its second year of using Brightwheel, a ELEA Member digital tool that has streamlined enrollment and tuition processes, making communication between families and staff more efficient.
Looking Ahead
With a strong foundation in faith, a commitment to service, and a clear vision for the future, Good Shepherd Lutheran Preschool is poised to continue its legacy of excellence. The school remains dedicated to providing an early childhood experience that nurtures not only young minds but also young hearts.
Good Shepherd Lutheran Preschool is more than a school—it’s a community where children are loved, faith is nurtured, and lifelong learning begins.
To learn more about Good Shepherd Lutheran Preschool, visit their website at gslchurch.org/preschool or follow them on Facebook at facebook.com/gslpreschool.
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