Our History

What started it all…

The preschool was founded in 2012 with a vision to provide a high-quality play-based program for three- and four-year-old children in the Pellville area. At the time, preschool options were limited—South Hancock only accommodated students with special needs or those meeting specific income guidelines, while Rise and Shine Preschool required a long commute for families in southern Hancock. With the dedication of Barbara Spindel, newly retired from South Hancock Elementary, early childhood educator Kim Mitchell, the support of Pellville Baptist Church, hopeful parents, and the guidance of the Lord, a much-needed third preschool option for southern Hancock County became a reality.

Today, families from Hancock, Ohio, and Daviess counties benefit from this ministry. Since 2016, Crystal Bernardi has served as the preschool director, continuing the preschool’s mission with the ongoing support of Barbara Spindel, Kim Mitchell, and many others.