Business Details
Christ-Centered Preschool in Rochester, MN
Rainbow School has been dedicated to providing a transformative Christian preschool experience since its founding. Our program prioritizes the holistic development of children aged 3-5, integrating spiritual growth with academic, social, emotional, and physical milestones. With over 50 years of combined teaching experience, our staff creates a nurturing environment where Christian values like love, respect, and forgiveness are modeled daily.We specialize in developmentally appropriate curricula that balance play-based learning with structured academic preparation for kindergarten. As a non-profit 501c3 organization, we focus on building foundational skills through a Christ-centered approach while fostering inclusivity and community support. Our partnerships with four ELCA congregations strengthen our mission to guide young minds and spirits in a joyful, accepting atmosphere.
Services
Preschool Classes
Full Day Classes
5-Day Option
Rise & Shine Care
Enrichment Programs
Chapel Time
Outdoor Activities
Language Instruction
Academic Preparation
Social Skills Development
Highlights and features
- We integrate Christian values with early childhood education for holistic development.
- Our staff has over 50 years of combined experience in early education.
- Play-based curriculum prepares children for kindergarten with academic and social focus.
- Non-profit mission prioritizes community inclusivity and accessible education.
- Partnerships with ELCA congregations enhance our spiritual and community support.
What people say
Nurturing environment
Experienced teachers
Strong curriculum
Christian values modeled
Language development success
Services
Preschool Classes
Our mixed-age preschool classes focus on spiritual, social, and academic growth through play-based learning. Students engage in writing, phonics, math, and social skills activities tailored to individual development levels. Chapel time, music sessions, and outdoor play at local parks or our on-site grassy area are included daily.
Full Day Classes
Designed for 4-5 year olds, these classes prepare children for full-day kindergarten with structured morning enrichment sessions in literacy, math, and Spanish/science. Afternoon sessions reinforce academic skills while emphasizing life skills like time management and group collaboration through hands-on projects and customized learning activities.
5-Day Option
This five-morning program combines MWF enrichment classes with TTH preschool sessions. Children bring lunch daily and transition between specialized learning environments focusing on language development, mathematical concepts, and social-emotional growth while maintaining a consistent routine for optimal learning outcomes.
Rise & Shine Care
Morning care program available from 8:00-8:55 AM offering supervised activities before regular classes begin. Provides a safe, nurturing environment for early arrivals with structured play and gentle transition into the school day's educational activities.
Enrichment Programs
Weekly enrichment sessions include Pre-K Literacy, Math, and Spanish/Science instruction. These classes reinforce core concepts through interactive activities that develop listening skills, phonics recognition, numerical understanding, and basic scientific observation in age-appropriate formats.
People
Cat Thisius
Director and Lead Teacher
Director since 2009 with Elementary Education degree from Winona State University and Child Care Administration Credential. Brings 15+ years of preschool leadership experience, combining administrative expertise with hands-on teaching in morning and enrichment classes.
Stacy Freimuth
Lead Teacher
Certified educator with 16 years teaching preschool and elementary grades. Holds Masters degree in Education from Winona State University. Specializes in differentiated instruction and social-emotional learning through play-based activities for diverse learners.
Tracy Tollefson
Lead Teacher
Literacy specialist with English Education background from Mankato State University. Former volunteer and board member with 3+ years classroom experience. Focuses on language development through storytelling, music, and interactive reading activities.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We serve children aged 3-5 years old, offering programs tailored to different developmental stages and kindergarten readiness needs.
Is your program faith-based?
Yes, we're a Christian preschool integrating faith elements through chapel time, biblical values instruction, and spiritual guidance in daily activities.
Do you offer before/after care?
Before care (Rise & Shine) is available 8:00-8:55 AM. We don't offer after-school care beyond regular program hours.
What's your educational approach?
We use play-based learning combined with structured academic preparation, focusing on holistic development across spiritual, social, emotional, and academic domains.
How do you support special needs?
Our experienced staff provides individualized support for language barriers, separation anxiety, and diverse learning styles while maintaining inclusive classroom environments.
Are you affiliated with any church?
We're supported by four ELCA congregations and maintain strong partnerships with Zumbro Lutheran and Good Shepherd Church communities.
