About Us

Founding a preschool has long been a dream of members of Fairwood Community United Methodist Church of Renton Washington. A special "task force" to undertake this effort has formed in 2004 and under the leadership and passion of Pastors Paula McCutcheon and Jim Clarke, the Joyful Hearts  Preschool Task Force began the effort of planning and implementing all the activities necessary for opening a preschool in the Fall of 2007.

A 1400 square foot space (see Facilities Tour) was allocated for the preschool. Members of the Preschool Council, along with Director, Carmella Bowen conducted fundraising, purchased the many necessary items and furnishings for the preschool, updated the heating and electrical systems, and painted the interior. In addition to Carmella, Joyful Hearts Preschool employs an assistant teacher, Staff.

Our Mission 

Fairwood Community United Methodist Church believes that a quality preschool built on the principle of God’s love (based on the teachings of Jesus Christ), developmentally appropriate practices, and an anti-bias approach to curriculum prepares children to thrive in our very diverse world.

Joyful Hearts Preschool, with its high ratio of teachers to students,  will be a welcoming place for children of FCUMC, as well as the surrounding Renton community; including those of differing religious, ethnic and/or socio-economic backgrounds than represented within the FCUMC congregation.

Joyful Hearts Preschool is an integral part of the church. The Preschool Board will be accountable to the Church Council. Staff, children and families will have an on-going relationship with Pastors and congregation.

The children will have a sensory-rich,  safe, nurturing environment developed and maintained by educated, loving staff. The director and teachers will have a background in early childhood education. Families will be encouraged to be a part of the overall program.

Children will be learning through play – interacting with other children and adults, using materials that are appropriate to their age and ability. Curriculum will allow children to explore and develop at their own pace. Children will be empowered by opportunities to learn problem-solving and peaceful conflict resolution skills.

Affirming the individual uniqueness of each child and respect for all of God’s creation would be at the center of all daily activities.

We welcome the children of Renton, Maple Valley, Kent  and  surrounding communities.