About The Junior School

Madame Henriette Neal, a native of France, and Nona Springel, founded the preschool in 1961 at St. John Lutheran Church in Kailua, Hawaii.  It was known then as Le Jardin d' Enfants  (The Garden of Children).  Today our  center-based preschool welcomes children ages 3-5, and offers a developmentally appropriate, integrated curriculum, which provides for a child's complete development:  physical, emotional, social, moral and cognitive. 

There is a balance of teacher-directed activities with periods of free choice in learning centers where the students are involved in the process.  Enrichment activities are done in a group setting.  Circle activities, stories, share, projects, excursions, and special classes in art, French, music and physical education are scheduled throughout the week.  There is also a balance of indoor and outdoor activities, alternating quiet and more active periods.  The playground is an extension of the learning environment where many choices are offered.

Teachers focus on social and emotional well being as well as on academic performance in a positive and caring atmosphere.  Students are encouraged to become independent learners and critical thinkers, and are taught the important value of respect for others and one's self, including manners and basic courtesy.