“All our kids have gone to this Preschool, and our last one will start when he is old enough, hopefully at the new campus. The nurturing environment that Mary Hornbuckle and the teachers offer to all the children here makes a very real difference in their social development and their growth as individuals. We must keep that special quality alive at the new Preschool.” -- Scott Green, Chair, Campaign Cabinet

St. Mark Community Preschool receives rave reviews from parents, who often place new siblings on the school’s waiting list within days of their births. The preschool is described in glowing terms, with parents noting the safe and comfortable environment, a sense of family and an appropriate balance between academic and social development. According to many parents, “Everybody loves St. Mark!”

Other strengths cited by parents include:

• A positive transition from preschool to kindergarten, particularly from a social perspective
• The school helps its students develop a strong sense of self
• Parents are down-to-earth and friendly
• Waiting list system is more positively perceived than other schools’ lottery systems
• Some schools are too academic, but at St. Mark Community Preschool the emphasis is on
  developmentally appropriate activities. Kids learn their letters, how to write their names, and other
  age-appropriate skills, while also learning how to enjoy social situations.
• Discipline is not punishment, but guidance – helping children learn to resolve their own conflicts
• The Preschool has built a strong reputation and loyalty with families; siblings and cousins often enroll
  in the school
• Dedicated staff, board and volunteers

“Mrs. Hornbuckle is special because she says hi every morning when I come in. She is nice to let us see her tortoise. She helps us if the bathroom is locked.” --Jack

“Thanks to her experience at St. Mark Community Preschool, our daughter Izzie now equates school with love, kindness and security.” --The Grove Family

“Mrs. Hornbuckle is special because she helps us find the gingerbread man.” --Ashton

“Words cannot express the gratitude our family feels toward this very special preschool. Thank you from the very bottom of all our hearts for nurturing the minds and souls of Megan, Ryan, Shannon and Lauren.” --The Griffin Family

“Mrs. Hornbuckle always knows my name from the first day of school and greets me with ‘Good morning, Anna!’ Maybe next year I won’t be so shy and I will say, ‘Good morning, Mrs. Hornbuckle!’” --Anna

“We have great confidence in Mary Hornbuckle, the teachers, the curriculum and the entire environment at St. Mark Community Preschool. They have truly provided Cole with a perfect preschool experience.”
--The White Family

“I like talking to Mrs. Hornbuckle and seeing her turtle. She makes me happy every time.” --Maddie

Perhaps one parent’s simple four-word description characterizes the Preschool best: Strong, Positive, Emotional and Loving.