How We Grew

In 2001, Mary Coppola and Susan Burns, whose children attended a South Charlotte preschool, envisioned a similar nurturing environment closer to home. This shared dream led them to establish a non-profit, progressive preschool in the University area, drawing on the philosophy of Sue Riley, a highly respected early-childhood educator in Charlotte. Sue’s wisdom and guidance were instrumental as the school began its journey.

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Mary and Susan sought to create a secular preschool that fostered freedom of thought, creativity, and strong visual aesthetics. They chose the Piedmont Unitarian Universalist Church for its convenient location, wooded grounds, and appealing classrooms. Although the preschool operates independently, it maintains a close, supportive relationship with the church. The school officially opened on October 16, 2001, with a multi-age classroom for three-to-five-year-olds. By January 2003, a class for two-year-olds was introduced, followed by a four/five-year-old class in the school’s third year, both of which were met with enthusiastic support.

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In 2005, Mary and Susan transitioned leadership to a Parent Council model to focus more on their own children who had aged out of the program. This shift empowered parents and teachers to collaborate in sustaining the school’s mission. Over the years, the dedicated involvement of parents and a committed teaching staff has preserved the original vision of a creative, independent, and supportive learning environment.

 

Today, the preschool continues to thrive as a unique, secular, non-profit institution where each child's individuality is celebrated and nurtured. The enduring partnership between parents and teachers ensures that the school remains a cherished and vital part of the community.