ABOUT OUR PRESCHOOL
Hayes Barton United Methodist Preschool (HBUMP) believes that children develop through play-based learning experiences and small classroom environments. As one of a few preschools in the area to follow NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children) guidelines, we provide classrooms with low student to teacher ratios. Our small class sizes foster strong and caring relationships while providing opportunities for individualized learning. This allows each child’s strengths to be recognized and enhanced. Our curriculum focuses on activities that promote developmental skills in the following areas:
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fine and gross motor skills
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self-help skills
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social and emotional development
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speech and language abilities
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cognitive development
The school day includes center-based learning along with a free play activity period, group time, snack, and outdoor play. Our children participate in a weekly music and movement program as well as chapel service to familiarize them with group worship. A science program is scheduled once a month along with other special visitors periodically.
Please click here for a detailed description of our curriculum.
The school’s calendar year generally begins after Labor Day and ends before Memorial Day. Preschool hours are from 9:15am – 12:45pm, and includes a snack and a lunch period.
HBUMP has been an important part of the Education Ministry of Hayes Barton UMC since 1986. We are committed to providing our church and community with a preschool where Christian principles and best practices in early childhood education come together to develop our students into thinkers with generous hearts.
Please feel free to contact Mary-Kathryn Connor to learn more.
MEET OUR DIRECTOR
Mary-Kathryn Connor holds a Bachelor's degree in Family and Consumer Sciences from Meredith College and a Master's degree in Early Childhood Intervention and Family Support from UNC-Chapel Hill. She has a vast resume of experiences having been a teacher, department chair, and adjunct instructor at Moore Square Middle School, Broughton High School and Meredith College. Through her skillful leadership, Mary-Kathryn brought about instrumental change and success not only in programming but also in student achievement and staff support.
Mary-Kathryn is married to Jeff, and they have 3 children -- Jordan, Mary-Knowles and Pate. She is an active member of Hayes Barton United Methodist Church and is a board member of the Root Elementary PTA, Wee Care Children's Enrichment Program, and the Southeast Raleigh YMCA. When she isn't working or volunteering, she enjoys traveling with her family, reading, and taking group fitness classes.