University Congregational Children's Center Preschool
Where 'Play is Child's Work'
Nurturing the gift and promise that are young children, since 1972
- About Us
- Curriculum
- Environment
- Co-op
- History and Administration
- Classes and Calendar
- Tuition
- Enrolling
- Staff
- Tours
- Contact Us
- Parent Bulletin Board
About Us
At UCCC, children are part of a family of learners, engaging playfully with peers, teachers, parents, classroom materials, the broader Missoula community and the world in the process of constructing knowledge.
Our developmentally appropriate preschool program promotes positive relationships among all children and adults, and nurtures each child’s sense of individual worth and belonging as part of this community.
We support active investigation, creative expression, and self-initiated learning, as well as each child’s capacity to contribute as a responsible community member.
We welcome children and families of all races, abilities and backgrounds.
Curriculum
Our curriculum is based on best educational practice and attention to the whole child.
Our teachers are intentional in planning a daily schedule and environmentally-rich curriculum that honors a child’s individual needs and interests. The curriculum supports success and challenge at every level of development (cognitive, social, emotional and physical) and is integrated across disciplines (literacy, mathematics, science, social studies, music, art, creative movement).
We balance opportunities to learn individually and in groups, both inside the classroom and through interaction with people, places and the environment outside the classroom.
We believe that ‘play is child’s work’ and that children learn best through hands-on, process-based and meaningful work experiences. We are committed to supporting and teaching about sustainable practices.
Warm personal child-teacher relationships support our emphasis on helping children communicate effectively and grow in awareness, thoughtfulness and empathy for others.
While we are a public 'face' of University Congregational Church, our curriculum is secular.
Environment
Our comfortable, child-centered classrooms and outside play yard are bright and cheerful. They reflect our commitment to surrounding children with their own work as well as immersion in a literacy-rich environment and inviting opportunities for multi-sensory learning across all disciplines.
Co-op
Our preschool is a parent cooperative. This means that on a rotating basis, adult family members assist daily in the classroom, accompany field trips, provide healthy snacks, and help with other projects. Families contribute ideas and talents, as well as share in each child’s growth and development at the preschool, which enriches the collaborative learning environment and sense of community for everyone. At UCCC, we arrive as separate families; we end up as one family.
History and Administration
Founded by University Congregational Church, UCCC has been a part of the Missoula community for over fifty years, first as a private kindergarten in the 1950’s and, since 1972, as a cooperative preschool. The curriculum of the preschool, while intentionally non-religious, reflects strong humanitarian and community-building values. An Administrative Liaison and 10-member Board administer the school.
Classes and Calendar
We offer classes for children, ages 3 to 4, and ages 4 to 5, either two or three days a week. Our academic year calendar follows that of Missoula School District 1, with a few exceptions.
Monday, Wednesday, Friday: 9:00 a.m.- 12:00 noon or
Tuesday,Thursday: 9:00 a.m.- 12:00 noon
Class size is constant at 12 children for each of the 3/4 year old classes, and 15 children for each of the 4/5 year old classes.
Lunch Bunch Option (Lunch Bunch PDF)
For an additional fee, an optional program offered by one of our teachers extends a child’s day to either 1:30 or 2:30. Enrollment is limited.
Contact Us
Email:
Address: UCCC Preschool, 405 University Avenue, Missoula MT 59801
Telephone: 406-531-8222
Family Bulletin Board
Mission Statement
UCCC Family Handbook
FAQ