Salem Lutheran School in Affton Expands Early Childhood Program

Like most early childhood centers, Salem Lutheran School was open to children three and older. Starting in August, Salem will offer pre-school options for families with two-year olds. According to the Director of the Early Childhood Program, Marie Pivirotto, "Many parents start their infants at an in-home daycare program and then start looking for a more structured environment around the age of two. Expanding our program to include two-year olds gives the parents an opportunity for a nice transition from in-home daycare to a school-based program. Children still get the nurturing needed at that age but are being exposed to a structured learning environment with a focus on skills such as fine motor, socialization and self-help through play and discovery.”  Trained educators will integrate technology and manipulatives and use challenging, exciting, and developmentally appropriate curriculums such as Voyages Bible Curriculum, and Saxon Early Learning Curriculum. In addition, two year olds are introduction to Bible stories and fellowship through prayer and singing.

One of the key components of the program change is all pre-school students will be able to attend the program from 6:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. year-round, including Christmas and Spring Breaks as well as the summer. Pre-school students have the opportunity to attend 2-5 days a week both mornings only or full days, allowing parents more flexibility with their work schedule. Prices range between $30-34 a day depending on the child's attendance, which is lower than most center and home-based programs.

Salem Lutheran School is located at 5025 Lakewood Rd. in Affton and serves 185 students in pre-school through eighth grade. For enrollment information or to take a tour, contact Principal Kellar or Program Director Marie Pivirotto, at 314-353-9242.