Beats, Books, and Belonging

When our refugee parents told us that they wanted a safe place for their preschoolers to learn English, make friends and prepare for the kindergarten experience, we set out to do something about it. This became a unique opportunity to serve not only our refugee community, but Columbia at large. So, guided by our mission and to meet the ever-growing need for affordable, high quality childcare, we opened City Preschool in January 2024. Since then, we have welcomed more than 40 children from 10 different countries, speaking a multitude of languages. 

We are open to all potty-trained children, ages three to five years, whether or not they have a refugee background. Registration is open now for summer and fall sessions! Today, we have the pleasure of hearing from TJ as he reflects upon his time as a teacher at City Preschool.

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As our spring session comes to a close, City Preschool is full of energy, growth, and anticipation for the summer ahead. This time of year always brings a natural moment to reflect, and it’s been incredible to see just how much each child has developed, not only academically, but socially, emotionally, and in their growing sense of independence.

Part of what makes this work especially meaningful to me is a personal connection. My mother’s side immigrated from Syria. Working in a preschool that serves many refugee families has given me a deeper sense of connection to my roots. It feels like a way to honor that history while also learning from families whose journeys reflect love, strength, and rich cultural traditions.

In the classroom, our focus is on helping children grow through play, creativity, and connection. We create space for them to explore, take risks, and build confidence in who they are. In our Pre-K class, my co-teacher and I help language and literacy come alive through music, songwriting, hip hop, singing, dancing, and playful word games. These moments aren’t just fun, they help children find their voices and express themselves with confidence. Watching their personalities emerge more fully each day is one of the most rewarding parts of this work.

One moment that has stayed with me this year involves a student whose family is from a region close to where my own family is from. It’s been incredibly rewarding to watch how quickly his language skills have grown and to see him begin to form friendships with such genuine excitement. There’s a special kind of joy in watching a child realize they can connect, play, and belong. A particularly meaningful day was when his family came into the classroom to celebrate his birthday, his first birthday party in the United States. His classmates gathered around to sing, we shared cake, and the room filled with laughter and pure happiness. It was a simple moment, but one that captured so much about what this community means.

This year, we’ve also been fortunate to receive support that has expanded learning beyond the classroom. A literacy grant made it possible for every child to take books home, encouraging a love of reading that extends into their families and daily lives. A supplies grant has ensured that our classrooms remain flexible, creative spaces, ready to support whatever curiosity or idea comes next.

As we head into summer, it’s been meaningful to see how much growth has happened in a relatively short time. The kids are more confident, more expressive, and more connected to each other. I’m grateful to be part of that process and to keep building on it in the months ahead.

TJ Kramer
City Preschool Teacher

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