About Tonganoxie Early Prep
Tonganoxie Early Prep is a faith-based preschool serving young children and their families in the Tonganoxie community. Hosted at Tonganoxie United Methodist Church, TEP provides a nurturing, safe environment where children are known by name, valued as individuals, and supported as they grow socially, academically, and spiritually.
We believe early childhood is a critical time for building confidence, curiosity, and a love of learning. Through small class sizes, intentional teaching, and meaningful relationships, we partner with families to help each child thrive.
Meet the TEP Team
Abby Hoelting
Director, Led Teacher
Amy Overmiller
Teacher
Tracey Welsh
Administrator
Tiana Hileman
Teacher
A Holistic Approach to Early Childhood
Intentional Learning in a Loving Environment
At TEP, learning is hands-on, play-based, and thoughtfully tailored to each child’s growth. Our staff uses state standards to design both whole-class and individualized lesson plans, setting social-emotional and academic goals each quarter. We incorporate Diane Alber’s Social-Emotional Curriculum, visuals from Pocket of Preschool, and engaging thematic explorations throughout the week. Children enjoy Stretch ’n’ Grow with Coach Beth on Thursdays and Fridays, Music Mondays on the first day of the school week for the Red Class, and creative art experiences that are incorporated into the program as part of our well-rounded learning approach.Growing in Faith
Faith is gently woven into the daily rhythm of Tonganoxie Early Prep. Children are introduced to age-appropriate Bible stories, simple prayers, and faith-based songs that help them learn about God’s love in ways they can understand. Our goal is to create a welcoming environment where children experience kindness, grace, and belonging while developing a foundation of faith that grows alongside them.Small Class Sizes, Meaningful Connections
We intentionally maintain a low student-to-teacher ratio of 1:6, with no more than 12 students per classroom and two teachers present each day. This allows our staff to build strong relationships with children, provide personalized support, and create a classroom environment where every child feels safe, seen, and encouraged.A Partnership with Families
We believe families are a child’s first and most important teachers. At TEP, we value open communication and partnership with parents and caregivers, working together to support each child’s growth and development. Our program is designed to offer flexibility, consistency, and care that meets the needs of both children and families.
Our mission is to partner with families to nurture each child’s growth in mind, heart, and spirit.
“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.”
— Proverbs 22:6, ESV
