From Bible study groups to youth ministry and Confirmation programs, the First United Methodist Church of Cuyahoga Falls serves the community with both non-traditional and traditional services. The church offers a weekday Christian pre-school from September through May. Founded on the corner of Front Street and Wadsworth Avenue in 1830, the church started out in a school house and has transformed over time into a larger facility that received a face-lift in the late 1980's and early 1990's.
Absorbent Minds is a private Montessori preschool and kindergarten. The classrooms of Absorbent Minds can be described as purposefully prepared; following in line with the Montessori philosophy. Their teachers guide the studies of every child based on the child’s interests, level of maturity, developmental stages and academic readiness. The children’s safety, character development and educational foundation are their top priorities.
Absorbent Minds Montessori School is guided by the observations of Dr. Maria Montessori. The program is based on the belief that during the first six years of life, children should develop through purposeful "work" in an environment that allows for intellectual freedom and exploration. Absorbent Minds believes the child's mind will never again be as absorbent as it is from birth to age six. It is the goal of Absorbent Minds to help children strive to attain their potential, and develop attitudes and confidence that will serve them throughout their lives.
Each member of the staff at Absorbent Minds is dedicated to using the Montessori Method of education to develop a self-disciplined, self-reliant child who is strong, not only academically, but also in character and leadership.
Absorbent Minds Montessori School is located inside the historic Pilgrim United Church of Christ, off of Route 8, at the Broad Boulevard exit, in downtown Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio.
Northminister Pre-School has been offering classes for young children since 1970.
While the school is located inside the Northminister Presbyterian Church, it does not include religion in its curriculum. A total of 11 teachers are on staff for the morning and afternoon classes for children ages 3 to 5. The popular Mom&Me program allows children as young as 2-and-a-half to attend with his or her parent or adult.
"We have wonderful families that participate with their children," pre-school director Teresa Lance said.
Each school year the students are asked to participate in the Good Neighbors food drive. Lance said in 2010 the students performed "more than ever."
Students are taught on subjects ranging from math and reading to music and crafts. Each week students attend the school's library for story time or to check out books.
Founded 28 years ago, Summit Christian School is a private institution for students in grades pre-school through 8th. Teachers use more hands-on activities for student learning and engagement. "We have plenty of field trips," explained Melanie Kemp, school administrator.
Students are encouraged to be active in local community service outreach programs, such as the Haven of Rest, singing in nursing homes and supporting a doctor's mission to volunteer in Haiti.