BEDFORD — A new early childhood education program focused on kindergarten readiness will open for the 2026-2027 school year at the Boys and Girls Club of Lawrence County.
Tiny Pillars Preschool is set to begin classes Aug. 17, offering a structured, play-based learning environment designed to prepare children academically, socially, and emotionally for their first year of school and beyond.
Lead teacher Loren Proffitt, a current kindergarten teacher with six years of experience, will transition into the role to guide the program.
“We are starting Tiny Pillars this August in partnership with the Boys and Girls Club of Lawrence County with the intention of preparing children for kindergarten and beyond,” Proffitt said. The program’s mission is to provide a nurturing and developmentally appropriate setting where children can build foundational skills through play-based exploration and meaningful interactions. Organizers say the goal is to support each child’s unique development while working alongside families to ensure a smooth transition into kindergarten.
Proffitt said her background in early childhood education will help students build confidence and thrive as they enter the next stage of learning.
“A solid literacy, math, and social-emotional foundation walking into a kindergarten classroom helps the student not only feel confident, but it also reduces the likelihood of grade retention in the future,” she said.
Tiny Pillars will operate in partnership with the Boys and Girls Club, which Proffitt said provides valuable resources, outreach, and a secure environment for students and staff.
“The BGCLC takes safety and security very seriously, and Tiny Pillars will also do the same,” she said.
The preschool will focus on building friendships, fostering social and emotional growth, and cultivating early literacy and basic math skills. Classes will be held on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m., following the North Lawrence Community Schools calendar.
Enrollment is open to children who are at least 4 years old by Aug. 1, 2026, and who are potty-trained, able to manage basic self-care tasks, and able to communicate their needs effectively.
“Kindergarten readiness is about more than knowing letters and numbers; it’s about creating a nurturing environment where children feel safe to explore, grow, and build confidence, independence, and a love for learning as they prepare for their next step,” Proffitt said.
For more information and registration information click here.
