The Bluffton Community Preschool, which meets at the First United Methodist Church, 116 Church St., announces new director, Shelly Matijevich, who brings over 20 years of early childhood development experience as well as a love for children. 

Her career includes being a teacher, supervisor and manager. She said that she is looking forward to using her knowledge, skills and experience for the benefit of the children and families of the Preschool.

The Preschool had a new substitute teacher in Linda Headings during the 2012-1013 school-year and has recently hired her as the teacher for the three-year-old classes. 

Previously, Headings has taught at the first grade and kindergarten levels, as well as working six years in a preschool Montessori program. She holds a master’s degree in Early Childhood Education and has a special interest in children’s literature and early literacy. 

Headings says that she enjoys the explosion of language and joy of discovery three-year-old children exhibit as they are immersed in a wider learning community in their first preschool experience. 

Matijevich and Heading join returning staff members, Amber Bingley (four-year-old teacher) and Irina Groman, teacher’s assistant.

The Bluffton Community Preschool is still accepting applications for the 2013-2014 school-year.  Please contact Matijevich at (419) 358-0268 or e-mail [email protected] for enrollment information and/or questions.

"The board, staff and families would like to thank the community for your support of the program and your investment into the lives of our community’s children," said Matijevich.