4 minute read
Community, Connection, and Family: The Heart of La Casita Preschool
At the start of each school year, Jessi Feltmann, a cherished preschool teacher at La Casita Preschool, takes a moment to reflect on her journey over the years. Her favorite memories are consistent year after year: watching children grow in knowledge, confidence, and curiosity and witnessing parents transform from strangers into a supportive community, sharing smiles and stories during drop-off and pick-up.
For Ms. Jessi, teaching is more than just a job; it’s a mission rooted in the power of connection. “Throughout the year, these three words come to mind: community, connection, and family.” These values guide her daily as she educates the young learners and welcomes their parents into the school’s vibrant culture.
Growth in Every Step
One of Ms. Jessi’s greatest joys is seeing her students’ transformation. “The growth from when they start to when they graduate is incredible,” she shares. On the first day of school, children arrive wide-eyed and eager, stepping into their very own space for the first time. “You can see it in their faces,” she explains. “There’s this sense of excitement and newness. They realize this school is theirs, where they can explore, create, and thrive.” By the end of the year, those same children radiate confidence. They’ve learned academic basics and how to share, collaborate, and express themselves creatively. “It’s about teaching them to love learning and to be kind, curious little humans.”
A Community Beyond the Classroom
La Casita Preschool isn’t just a place for children; it’s a hub for families. Ms. Jessi lights up when she talks about the relationships formed among parents. “I love watching parents connect outside of the school,” she says. “We’re not just a little preschool; we’re here for the whole community.” This community-minded spirit is embedded in La Casita’s mission: La Casita offers support and community outreach to the families and children of Dobson Ranch and the surrounding community. The preschool’s purpose is equally heartfelt: To provide a safe, loving environment for children to be cared for and the opportunity to develop to their fullest potential physically, emotionally, socially, intellectually, and creatively. The bonds formed at La Casita often extend far beyond graduation. Ms. Jessi recalls heartwarming stories of children who attended the preschool together and remained lifelong friends, even after moving to different states or countries.
“It’s such a joy to hear about those enduring friendships. It reminds me how much of an impact we can have, not just today, but for years to come.”
The Bridge Between School and Community
A cornerstone of La Casita Preschool’s success is the unwavering support from Dobson Ranch’s clubs and volunteers. These generous contributors ensure that Ms. Jessi and her team can focus on what matters most: the children. “The clubs that support the preschool are invaluable to me,” Ms. Jessi says. “They allow us to expand not just in the classroom but outward into the community. Their generosity brings us closer to our mission.” From organizing events to providing resources, these volunteers are the unsung heroes of La Casita’s story. Ms. Jessi’s gratitude for them is palpable. “We couldn’t do this without them. Their dedication shows what it truly means to be part of a community.”
A Legacy of Connection
Ms. Jessi believes deeply in creating connections—within the classroom, among families, and across the Dobson Ranch community. Her goal is always to start a ripple effect of kindness and collaboration extending beyond preschool. “When I look at these kids, I see future Dobson Ranch residents,” she says. “What we’re building here is more than a foundation for learning; it’s a foundation for community. These children and their families are part of something bigger, something lasting.”
A Mission That Feels Like Family
As Ms. Jessi reflects on her years at La Casita, her passion is undeniable. “We’re not a business,” she states firmly. “We’re a family. And that’s what makes this place so special.” Her work embodies the preschool’s mission and purpose, creating a nurturing environment where children and families feel seen, supported, and valued. For Ms. Jessi, every moment spent teaching is a step toward a brighter, more connected community.
As another school year unfolds, Ms. Jessi is ready to embrace its challenges and joys with her characteristic warmth and enthusiasm. “The first day of school is always magical,” she says. “It’s a reminder of why I love what I do. The kids are excited, the parents are hopeful, and the possibilities are endless. It’s a fresh start for everyone, and there’s nothing more rewarding than being part of that journey.” For the families of Dobson Ranch, her dedication is a lasting treasure that continues to shape their lives in the most profound ways.
