In August 2018, Union Mission was blessed with the opportunity to collaborate with Kanawha County Schools to open a new preschool to serve the local community. “Preschool is a child’s first school experience and we have been given the unique task to set the foundation for how each child and their family views school,” said Kayla Bailey, Lead Preschool Teacher. “On the first day of school 11 eager and smiling faces ran off the bus into their new classroom. We had no idea what was in store for us.”
Throughout the year the children flourished socially, emotionally, and academically. Relationships and trust were built with each family as well as with the staff of Kanawha County Schools. The Lord moved in this ministry as the Gospel was shared with the families and new donors jump on board to support Union Mission Ministries.
As the school year ended Union Mission hosted the preschool’s first graduation ceremony. “The children that walked across the stage to receive their diplomas were not the same children that walked in the building that first day of school,” said Adrien Gibbs, Preschool Director.
The building was packed with family and friends that came to support how hard the children worked to finish their first year of school. Tears were shed and gratitude was expressed from parents and families as they talked about how thankful they were for this program. “Because of this program you have helped my child and I am not afraid anymore. I feel that I can trust now,” said one parent.
Union Mission Preschool will open its doors for a new school year in August 2019.
