4-year-old
Mrs. Cheryl Streckert
Faculty Information
Title(s)
Preschool Director, Teacher - Preschool
Contact Information
School Email
cstreckert@goodshep.com (Primary)
School Phone
952-432-5527
Other Information
Biography
Mrs. Streckert holds a B.S. in Education from Martin Luther College in New Ulm, MN. She started teaching simply in her own home to her own preschool-aged children and a group of neighborhood children years ago! In 1995 she was called to teach Preschool (and later Kindergarten) at Heritage Lutheran Church, Apple Valley, MN. Good Shepherd congregation called her to begin the preschool program in 2003, and she has been directing/teaching here ever since!
Teaching Philosophy
I believe that each child is uniquely created by our loving God and therefore has priceless worth! I strive to help children ultimately reach their God-given potential by providing a safe, loving, stimulating, environment where children know they are forgiven children of God, free to make mistakes. Young children need to learn through play, often moving their bodies, to help develop the self-regulation they need to succeed. Preschool is a wonderful place to practice social/emotional skills and can set a wonderful foundation for being life-long learners and I am thrilled to be a part of it!
Mrs. Joanie Arndt
Faculty Information
Title(s)
Teacher - Preschool
Contact Information
School Email
jarndt@goodshep.com (Primary)
School Phone
952-432-5527
Other Information
Biography
Mrs. Arndt graduated from Martin Luther College with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education. She taught 1-2 grades in Illinois and southwest Minnesota before stepping away from teaching to raise her family. In 2004, Mrs. Arndt returned to the classroom and began teaching preschool, first in Illinois and then at Shepherd of the Hills in Inver Grove Heights, MN. She began teaching Session 2 (afternoons) in the 4-year-old classroom at Good Shepherd in 2017.
Teaching Philosophy
I believe that each child is uniquely created by God who loves them dearly. I work each day to help children grow physically, mentally, socially, emotionally and spiritually. I want to help each child build on their strengths and conquer their challenges. Young children learn as they engage in meaningful play. Preschool classrooms may look like chaotic environments, but in each corner of the room children are learning as they play.
Preschool Program Highlights
- Play-based Curriculum
- Daily Lessons from God’s Word, along with prayers throughout the day
- Intentional movements integrated into the learning process (i.e. “Brain Gym” or “Me Moves”)
- Mystery Bag Show-n-Tell
- Large challenging outdoor space and indoor Gym
- Joint Christmas program with the Kindergarten Class
- Field Trips (such as Nature Center, Children’s Theater, Kinder-Konzerts)
- Older group learns to play Handbells and attends Chapel