Our Belief

At Good Shepherd Day School, we believe play serves as the work of children, allowing them to engage in experimentation, problem-solving, and the expression of their ideas. Our objective is to establish a connection between the home environment and the broader world. We hold the belief that "learning through play" cultivates self-confidence, spontaneity, and a sustained interest in learning throughout life. In our program, children engage with one another through observation, imitation, and, at times, through parallel, cooperative, or dramatic play. Within our preschool setting, children acquire essential skills for group interaction, learn to negotiate with peers, and begin to understand the principles of sharing and collaboration inherent in group play.

Smiling young child in a blue shirt, playing on a wooden playground structure.
Young girl in a patterned dress smiles as she plays with a purple toy indoors.

Our Environment 

We create a warm, secure, happy place for children to grow. Entry to our school is highly restricted. Each child is monitored carefully. Rooms are spacious, well lit, airy, and filled with colorful activity and learning materials. Our shaded, fenced playgrounds allow plenty of space for children to run and play as they develop their social and motor skills. 

Boy with blue shirt hugs girl in striped top; both smile indoors.

Our Staff

Our teachers are the lifeblood of our program and work closely with each family to gently guide each child toward a positive self-image and healthy social skills. They are carefully selected on the basis of their formal training in early childhood education, references, previous experience, patience, creativity, warmth and sensitivity to children. Fingerprinting and background screening of candidates are done by the Florida Dept of Law Enforcement and FBI. Employees are certified in infant/child First Aid and CPR.

Our Curriculum

The curriculum is designed to foster a comprehensive developmentally apprpriate learning experience that aligns with the Florida Early Learning and Developmental Standards, encompassing physical development, social and emotional development, cognitive development and general knowledge, approaches to learning, and language and communication. Through hands-on exploration, inquiry-based learning, and experiential activities, children will cultivate critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, refining their skills through trial, reflection, and iterative learning.

Young girl with blonde hair smiles, holding up a craft in a classroom setting.