Past a rainfed fountain and a butterfly garden lies a recreational wonderland in the Cherrywood neighborhood.
With a 60-foot creek, climbing logs, wooden pergolas, and native vegetation, the grounds are beloved by those who stomp on them — or sometimes, crawl. This is the playground at St. George’s Episcopal School, Austin’s oldest operating preschool.
Founded in 1966 by parishioner Nora Garcia Loran, St. George’s is approaching its 60th anniversary. The school serves children ages 6 months to 4 years with a play-based approach to early childhood education instilled by Garcia herself.
By encouraging students’ learning with stimulating play activities, they are well-rounded developmentally and set up for successful futures. Today, this mission is continued by a community of exceptional families and staff.
Since 2014, director Jerri Thompson, M.Ed., has led the school’s expansion, including the addition of its state-of-the-art nature playground. With four decades in early childhood education, Thompson stresses “purposeful play,” where children gain pre-academic skills while developing a love of learning.
“Our approach highlights the growth necessary to a child’s future learning in a developmentally-appropriate manner,” Thompson said. “Because St. George’s had progressive leaders who understood this, my arrival only took that idea to the next level.”
This is what makes St. George’s play-based and child-led learning unique — students are empowered to grow. Thompson’s own programs — Scope and Sequence and Companion Assessment Tool — guide teachers in leading activities that ensure development across all areas while also meeting a child where they are.
Lead teacher Carmel Sweat knew she had found something special when her own sons attended St. George’s as students 25 years ago. A former director recognized her gift, inspiring her to go back to school and become an educator in their community, which she has now been for 18 years.
“There’s a misconception that we’re a daycare or babysitters, and we’re so much more,” Sweat said. “Early education lays a strong foundation for both children and their families.”
St. George’s Episcopal Church supports the children’s development with Christian values at weekly chapel. Their philosophy is simple: love each other and love nature, just as God loves us.
The story of St. George slaying the dragon is the children’s favorite, says Rev. Matt Boulter, pastor at St. George’s Episcopal Church. Serving as the school’s mascot, the dragon isn’t feared by the children, but instead represents a safe world shaped by resilience and courage.
“The stories we tell at chapel time shape the kids’ imaginations to be full of beautiful things,” said Boulter, “and therefore, believe in beautiful possibilities and a beautiful world.”
St. George’s communications manager, Sam Anderson, credits teachers for the school’s longstanding success. Most St. George’s teachers hold or are pursuing degrees in early childhood development. Many attend multiple conferences and professional development sessions each year, supported by fundraising in the community.
“Their dedication and consistency of process is incredible. They make every day special by being deeply loving, calm and open with the children,” said Anderson.
As it enters its sixth decade, St. George’s leaders say the school will continue nurturing Austin’s youngest learners with an emphasis on growth, imagination and community, preparing them for a bright future.
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