St. Michael's is always abuzz with learning and excitement.. Every day presents an opportunity for exploration, discovery, growth and development. St. Michael's students are always engaged: counting, building, singing, writine, climbing, and using all their senses to experience each new day. It is fascinating to watch our children as they develop problem-solving skills while working on a puzzle or game, learn to cope with sharing, show pride in their creations, and even grapple with assuming responsibility and their ever-emerging independence. It is a joyful privilege to be an ongoing observer of human development. That is what motivates me each day: the potential that little children can reach and the role we, as educators, play in guiding each child as they grow emotionally, socially and independently. More than 30 years ago, I started at St. Michael’s School as a kindergarten teacher. Over the past three decades, my love of children and enthusiasm for the job of teaching has never waned.  On the contrary, I am inspired each day to make sure our school is on the cutting-edge of the latest trends in brain research, and teaching tools and techniques.  Our children deserve nothing less. Research in brain development tells us that the early, formative years children spend with us at St. Michael’s are the most crucial of their lives. Over 75 percent of all they will ever know is acquired during children’s first five or six years.  Other research has shown conclusively that quality early childhood programs impact lives in ways that promote long-term benefits, including the likelihood of completing higher levels of education, attaining economic independence, and becoming a good citizen. It is a huge responsibility to provide the education and care that young children need.  At St. Michael’s, we welcome the assignment. My goal is to reach as many children as possible.  As a non-profit school, St. Michael’s strives to make an outstanding education affordable for families.   And thanks to our Scholarship Fund and the generosity of our donors, we are able to offer the same opportunities for children who need financial aid. St. Michael’s graduates take with them knowledge, skills, and self-confidence.  They embody and embrace what I call the St. Michael's Creed: I am...I think...I care…I will…I lead.  As you consider early education options for your child, please consider St. Michael’s -- where learning begins at birth and builds a foundation for a lifetime.   Helen C. Riley, Executive Director