For Parents

About KUM

Kirkwood United Methodist Preschool is dedicated to providing a safe, nurturing, Christian environment where all children, families, and staff can learn and grow.

KUM Preschool celebrates over 50 years of learning and growing. Our school opened in April, 1962 on a trial basis with 30 children enrolled and a staff of two teachers. The trial was a success and in the fall of 1962, KUM opened with an enrollment of 45 children and a staff of three teachers. KUM continues to offer a variety of classes with an enrollment of over 150 children. There are 20 staff members including specialists who teach movement, music, Spanish and atelier.

The classroom curriculum is designed to include a large block of time for child-directed play among the various centers in the room. During this time, teachers prepare the classroom with engaging materials and learning opportunities so that children may explore and act on their environment, observe and ask questions, and interact with others. Activities are also provided to practice emerging, age-appropriate skills during teacher directed, small group activities. Further options are also offered throughout the week to enrich the child’s school experience.


The VIP Volunteer Program

The Co-Op program will be reinstated for the 2022-2023 school year in a new format called VIP VOLUNTEERS. A VIP Volunteer can be a parent, grandparent, or a Very Important Person in the child's life. The purpose of volunteering is to assist all children, the teachers, and have fun!

Volunteers may sign up for a date once a semester on the class calendar. The times for volunteers will be agreed upon by each classroom teacher and the volunteer. Volunteers must have a signed Volunteer Agreement filed in the office, view our Parent Helping Video and follow volunteer guidelines. Please wear comfortable clothing and shoes that can be exposed to paint, sand, water, etc.


Safe Gatherings

KUMC requires that all who serve children and youth to be Safe Gatherings trained. This ensures that all parties receive proper care when they are at KUMC/KUM Preschool. All teachers and staff are required to take this training every three years. VIP Volunteers work alongside the classroom teachers helping children during the school day in the presence of adults who have been trained and vetted. Each volunteer signs a written affidavit stating that they have never been accused or convicted of a crime with a child. Volunteers may be required to complete a background check if the school deems necessary.


Handbook & Important Documents

Resources for Families

Parents as Teachers Programs:

Contact your home district for a Parent Educator!

Kirkwood: 314-213-6137 Rockwood: 636-891-6216 Parkway: 314-415-6973 Affton: 314-633-0019 Lindbergh: 314-729-2400 Webster Groves: 314-968-3189 Fox: 636-296-8000 Mehlville: 314-467-5303 Clayton: 314-854-6910 Ladue: 314-983-5361
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