Good Shepherd Preschool Students “Step Up” to Kindergarten

As Pastor Suzanne Anderson-Hurdle read to the graduating preschool class at ’s "stepping-up" ceremony Sunday, she paused to choke back tears.

“My oldest is graduating high school this year, which I find hard to believe,” she said, her voice cracking as she asked the crowd’s forgiveness for her emotion-filled delivery.

The pastor of in Romeoville read a picture book titled “Plant Your Dreams” to the 26 students, ages 4 and 5, all poised to continue their education next fall when they begin kindergarten.

“This is such a critical age for kids,” the pastor remarked before the ceremony began inside the gym at the Romeoville Recreation Center. “They start asking a lot of questions.”

She said the Christian-based preschool was started 10 years ago to fill a need for valued-based instruction for very young children.

The school offers a two-year program for three-to-five-year-olds, said Marilyn Pierce, the preschool director and teacher.

Pierce said the ceremony marking the student’s completion of the program is called a “stepping-up” ceremony because “It’s their first step into their continuing education.”

Pierce told the crowd of parents, relatives and friends, many of whom clicked cameras and shot video as this milestone in their children’s young lives unfolded, that they should remember to cherish each stage of development.

“They grow up so quickly. I urge you, please enjoy every minute with your child,” said Pierce, thanking the community for fundraisers and donations aimed at helping the preschool.

The ceremony began with a procession of the children who are finishing their preschool careers into the gym.

Then Pastor Suzanne said a prayer: “Thank you, God, for providing such a beautiful day for this Stepping Up celebration.”

The youngsters who are moving on stood in the front of the room where they sang several songs, including “Love, Love, Love” and one called “Kindergarten Here I Come.”

Next, a little wooden bridge, symbolizing the transition from preschool to kindergarten, was set up so each child could cross over it as they accepted a certificate proclaiming their new status.

“It’s a pretty proud moment, knowing my son is growing up and now going to elementary school,” said one mother in attendance. “Good Shepherd is a very good school. They are very loving and caring.”