EARLY CHILDHOOD

Preschool at St. Vincent de Paul offers a developmental, child centered program that focuses on the social-emotional, physical, creative and cognitive needs of young children. We believe that children learn best in a positive play-based environment in which they are allowed to explore and learn at their own pace.

In our classrooms, the children freely explore the various stations including art, blocks, creative play, fine motor activities, and reading. Large and small group activities feature stories, games, and songs that reinforce specific concepts. The role of the teacher is to facilitate learning through teachable moments and group activities. Children are introduced to the basics of the Catholic faith as part of daily activities.

Classroom Saint:  St. Nicholas

Education: Bachelor of Science degree from the University of South Dakota

Began Teaching In: 2000

Been at SVDP Since: 2020 (parishioner since 2006)

Roles at SVDP: Faithful Beginnings Director and Pastoral Council Member

Favorites: Target, Caribou, Starbucks

Preschoolers come to school each day with an eagerness to learn. I love helping each child grow in independence, confidence, & knowledge. I strive each day to create a faith-filled & joyful space where each child feels important, safe,                                                           & supported.                    
                                                     
                                                     Email Mrs. Carmon
 

Email Pam Olmstead

Classroom Saint:  St. Nicholas

Education: BA University of Wisconsin Stout - Early Childhood Education

Began Teaching In: 2002

Been at SVDP Since: 2017

Roles at SVDP: Tuesday, Thursday Preschool Teacher

Favorites: Target

I love working with young children because they know how to brighten a room, spread love and smiles, and find the joy of learning and in the little things in life so effortlessly.

Email Mrs. Ordner

Classroom Saint:  St. Nicholas

Education: Bachelors of Science from University of MN in Child Psychology with an emphasis in Early Childhood

Began Teaching In: 2000

Been at SVDP Since: 2017

Roles at SVDP: Tuesday/Thursday Preschool Teacher

Favorites: Target, Amazon

I am so excited to teach our littlest Royals because I LOVE this community and preschoolers
are AWESOME! 

Email Mrs. Sawicky

Classroom Saint:  Infant of Prague

Education:

Began Career In: 2000

Been at SVDP Since: 2022

Roles at SVDP: Faithful Beginnings Pre-Kindergarten Teaching Assistant

Favorites: Hiking, Fabric Stores, MOA

To be able to witness a child feeling safe and loved in a learning environment brings me so much joy.  St. Vincent de Paul is such a welcoming and nurturing environment that just feels like home.

Email Mrs. Keran  

Classroom Saint:  St. Nicholas

Education: BS Secondary Education, Health and Human Performance, BAS Early Childhood Studies, MA Family Life Education

Began Teaching In: 2004

Been at SVDP Since: 2022

Roles at SVDP: Faithful Beginnings Preschool Teaching Assistant (Tuesday, Thursday)

Favorites: Target, Caribou

I'm excited to get back to teaching preschool.  I enjoy working with children and watching them grow and learn.  I'm excited to join the SVDP preschool teaching team as I valued the care and education my daughter received in Faithful Beginnings. 

                                                              Email Mrs. Martin  

Classroom Saint:  St. Nicholas

Education: BA in Elementary Education, BS in Sports & Leisure Management

Began Teaching In: 2007

Been at SVDP Since: 2022

Roles at SVDP: Faithful Beginnings Preschool Teaching Assistant (Monday, Wednesday, Friday)

Favorites: Coffee Shops & Target





I am so excited to be back in the classroom with our youngest learners. I love seeing children’s imaginations come to life in their work and play. SVDP is a special place that I feel blessed to be a part of. As my daughter said best, “Everyone is full of joy and Jesus. 

                                                            Email Amanda Miller