Jan 8, 2004

NEWS BRIEFS

Cornerstone Pre-School: “Building from a Solid Foundation”

By Candy Richter
Staff Writer

As it’s name implies, Cornerstone Pre-School, located on the South Hills Community Church campus in Almaden, offers its students a solid base of developmentally appropriate learning opportunities in an environment that fosters achievement, confidence and socialization.

According to Director Deborah Paselk, Cornerstone’s emphasis is on developing the whole child. “We want every child to reach his or her potential according to their level,” said Paselk. “You want to choose the right school to fit your child’s needs. Our program is more socially focused as opposed to a strictly academic program. The children learn at their own pace in a non-stressful environment. Stress shuts off the learning process of the brain.”
At Cornerstone, the emphasis is on center-based activities that include the popular “Parent’s Corner,” which invites parents of the older 4- and 5-year-olds to engage in a creative hands-on activity with small groups of students. Although parent participation is encouraged at Cornerstone, it is not required.

In an industry where frequent turnover is the rule of the day, Cornerstone is unique in not only the longevity of its staff, with an average tenure of four to five years, but also in its leadership. Paselk started Cornerstone Preschool at South Hill Community Church 13 years ago and is still at the helm. “We have a good balance of mature teachers and new teachers. It’s a wonderful mix that encourages mentoring and the introduction of fresh perspectives. I also encourage staff development and many of us attend the California Association of Education of Young Children conferences.” Herself a CAEYA speaker, Paselk has presented both peer and parent workshops on the educational development of boys, and a variety of parenting classes.
Paselk feels that growth is important for both students and staff alike, and is proud of her staff’s willingness to expand their own knowledge base along with their students. ”Everyday we’re learning more about how the brain works, and we need to stay abreast of the latest information.”

As part of the South Hills Community Church, Cornerstone Pre-school is a Christian-based school whose daily regimen includes teaching Christian principals and using Bible stories to emphasize these ideals, but students are not required to be members of a religious organization to attend.
“When South Hills opened the preschool, their idea was to provide a service to the community,” explained Paselk. “We wanted to offer a quality program.”

A typical day at Cornerstone includes morning sessions at interest centers that feature pre-math or science activities, socio-drama, fine motor development and art exploration This is followed by group song, story and game time that encourages language development and social awareness. Snack time and outdoor play give the students opportunities to continue social skills and incorporate strong large motor development.
Music and Movement—affectionately referred to as “M & M’s—” encourages the student’s self-expression and confidence. Closing time focuses on Bible curriculum and a special “show and tell” session.

2004 marks the only the second year that Cornerstone has hosted an open house session for perspective parents. “The first year it was a big success,” said Cornerstone Public Relations Administrator Andrea Franklin. “And this year we’re expecting even more of a turnout. We have a presentation on the philosophy of our program and prospective parents will have the opportunity to meet out director and staff, and ask questions.”

Cornerstone Pre-School is located at 6601 Camden Avenue, on the campus of South Hills Community Church. For more information, call Andrea Franklin at 268-7597, or visit www.cornerstoneshcc.com.