Our Story

Discovery Preschool began as Alexander Ferguson Preschool in 2003 to fill a need for an early childhood program in the Killarney area. In 2006, a group of parents filed for corporation and Discovery Preschool became its own non-profit entity.  

Over the years, parents of current students have joined the board of directors to help shape the program Discovery Preschool offers today. The foundation of the preschool is community involvement; all families contribute to the program by holding a parent job and spending some time volunteering in the classroom. This creates a support system for our teachers and enables us to keep costs low to operate a sustainable program.

What differentiates Discovery Preschool is a strong sense of community and commitment of parents to see this preschool prosper over the years. A great example of this was in 2022, after nearly 20 years at the same location in Killarney, the board voted to move the school to a new location inside the Grace Lutheran Church in Rutland Park. This was a big decision, but the move has benefitted the program in several ways – moving to a newer space, access to a full-size indoor gymnasium, close proximity to multiple playgrounds for outdoor play, access to a dedicated studio and separate snack room, and above all enhanced safety for our kids and financial security. Each year's board contributes to the legacy of this school.

Discovery Preschool offers something unique through its Reggio-based program and sense of community. When choosing to send your child to Discovery Preschool, you’re choosing to build long lasting friendships (both for the kids and the parents). You’re choosing a program that is play-based, engages your child in decision making about how they will spend their time there, and fosters independence. You’re choosing a program that will prepare your child for the future; our graduates are ready for Kindergarten with a strong social base and a love for school.

If you’re looking for a safe, fun, sustainable and inclusive preschool program, Discovery Preschool is for you!