Stepping Stones Preschool

A Christ-centered program for children ages 2-5 years

Stepping Stones is for children ages 2-5 years. This Christ-centered program is intended to show children the love of God in a safe, caring, nurturing environment, helping each child develop to their fullest potential. Children are engaged in hands-on activities that revolve around themed lesson plans, and have the opportunity to explore and socialize with peers.

Classes are Monday-Thursday during the school year. The mixed-age class meets from 9:00 a.m.-noon. The pre-k class meets from 9:15-11:45 a.m.

The Stepping Stones program is coordinated by Linda Lowery, Director of Stepping Stones. Please send any inquiries to steppingstones@johumc.org.

2025-2026 SCHOOL CALENDAR

  • August 19 – Orientation (see details below)

  • August 25 – First day of school

  • September 1 – No school (Labor Day)

  • October 13 – No school (Indigenous Peoples’ Day)

  • November 24-28 – No school (Thanksgiving break)

  • December 22-January 5 – No school (Christmas break)

  • January 19 – No school (Martin Luther King Jr. Day)

  • February 16 – No school (President’s Day)

  • March 30-April 3 – No school (Spring break)

  • May 21 – Last day of school

Orientation (August 19, 2025)

We invite registered students to join us for an orientation night (6:00-8:00 p.m.) where children and parents can explore the classrooms, meet the teachers, drop off supplies, and get questions answered. Please contact the Director of Stepping Stones at steppingstones@johumc.org any questions.

RESOURCES

Student Supply List (2025-2026)

  • 4 Elmer’s brand glue sticks

  • 1 box of 24 Crayola Crayons

  • + 1-2 items from the classroom supply list (below)

Classroom Supply List (2025-2026)

Please ensure your child's classroom is fully equipped by signing up to provide 1-2 items from this list. Families are invited to go together to purchase one of the larger items on the list.

Backpack Supply List

Please send your child to school each day with a backpack containing: a filled water bottle labeled with your child’s name and a complete change of clothes (pants, shirt, socks, underwear or diapers and wipes).

Parent Handbook

Download the Parent Handbook

Register for classes

Parent’s Day Out Mixed Ages

Parent’s Day Out Pre K

PAY ONLINE

Mixed-Age Class: $17 per session
($15/session for Cornerstone & Journey of Hope members)

Pre-K Class: $17 per session
($15/session for Cornerstone & Journey of Hope members)

There is a one-time $45 registration fee (per child) to cover the cost of snacks and supplies for the year.

Meet the Team

  • Ms. Linda

    Linda Lowery
    Director of Stepping Stones
    Pre-K Teacher
    steppingstones@johumc.org

    Linda has worked to share thelove of God with children throughout her life. She was instrumental in the development of the Stepping Stones program and has served as its Director since the beginning. Linda looks forward to also serving in the classroom this year. She is excited about helping each child realize that they are special and loved by God as they work to develop their knowledge and skills to the best of their ability.

  • Ms. Diana

    Diana Rendon
    Pre-K Teacher

    Diana is a wife and a mother of two amazing children. (Both of her children have attended the Stepping Stones program.) Diana has a degree in education and is a certified teacher in the state of IL with experience teaching in elementary and middle schools. She enjoys learning and growing with her students! Diana's goal in the classroom is to prepare her students for kindergarten academically, socially, and emotionally while instilling an understanding and appreciation for God, His love for them, and His wonderful purpose for their lives.

  • Ms. Kim

    Kim Lowery
    Mixed-Age Teacher

    Kim has worked with children for more than 25 years through Stepping Stones, Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, and other church programs. In addition to working with children at Journey of Hope, Kim is also a nanny. She really enjoys working with children, seeing them grow in God's love, and watching the joy they get from learning how special they are as God's children!

  • Ms. Megan

    Megan Furey
    Mixed-Age Teacher Aide

    Megan was born and raised in Elgin where she still lives with her husband and two beautiful girls. She has 25 years of experience as a nanny and church volunteer. She loves creative play and engaging with children. Megan is excited to share God’s love with the children of Journey of Hope.