History | Purpose/Goals | Governing Board | Faculty
To learn more about the Child Development Center, contact the CDC Director.

History:
Bethany United Methodist Church Weekday Preschool was originally organized during 1978 and early 1979. The first class of 16 three-year-olds and two teachers began their half-day classes in September of 1979. Additional classes were added each year with the first kindergarten class beginning in the fall of 1986.

September of 1990, Lunch Bunch was offered for the first time to provide extended care for two hours on selected days. The school has since grown to include sixteen classes of preschoolers and one kindergarten, serving up to 190 children annually.

The faculty currently consists of 11 teachers, 9 assistant teachers, one music teacher, the director and assistant director.

In 1992, Bethany Weekday Preschool was officially renamed Bethany Child Development Center. Bethany CDC became fully licensed by the state of South Carolina in 1994 and received the distinct honor of full Accreditation by the National Academy of Early Childhood Programs in Washington, DC. the same year.

Purpose/Goals:
The purpose of Bethany CDC is to give children their first exposure to education and social development within a Christian setting. We are committed to helping children grow and develop socially, emotionally, intellectually and spiritually in a developmentally appropriate environment.

All this is done while providing a warm, nurturing, safe and positive atmosphere where learning is fun and exciting. We strive to make available to each child a wide variety of educational experiences to meet their individual developmental needs.

Governing Board:
Bethany Child Development Center is governed by the CDC Board which is completely responsible for all policy and/or major operational changes, as well as the overall guidance of the program. The Board consists of Bethany members, as well as non-members, parents and educators who have an interest in the overall success of the program. The CDC Board is responsible to the Administrative Board of Bethany United Methodist Church.

Faculty:
All faculty of Bethany CDC are members of the National Association for the Education of Young Children and/or the SC Early Childhood Association. All teachers, assistant teachers and administrative staff attend workshops, state conferences and various continuing education programs annually to insure the highest quality teaching skills and program content. All classes adhere to strict child/teacher ratios and are staffed by certified or well-trained teachers who are likewise committed Christians with a deep love for children.