THERE’S SOMETHING IMMEDIATELY COMFORTING ABOUT ST. ANGELA’S PRESCHOOL IN PACIFIC GROVE. Maybe it’s the sound of children laughing on the playground, or the warm way teachers greet families at morning assembly. Maybe it’s that unmistakable feeling of stepping into a place where childhood is honored—where wonder, faith, and community are woven into each day with intention. For principal and director Lily Perez, who is new to the school this year, that sense of belonging is exactly what makes St. Angela’s such a special start for young learners.

“Our core mission is to allow students many opportunities to experience God’s love and gifts through an age-appropriate curriculum,” Perez explains. “We cater to the child as a whole—academically, socially, spiritually, and physically.”

That holistic approach shines through in every corner of the school. Children gather each morning with their classmates—and often their families—to recite a prayer, pledge to the flag, and sing together. It’s a ritual that sets the tone for the day and grounds students in community. From there, a preschooler’s experience unfolds in a rhythm that balances exploration with guidance and independence with nurturing.

A DAY DESIGNED FOR LEARNING AND JOY

Inside each of the four classrooms, learning centers invite hands-on creativity. Teachers refresh themes every two weeks, bringing in new toys, natural objects, and child-contributed items. “Our teachers do such a great job at changing themes to grow children’s curiosity and encourage educational growth,” Perez says. “Many centers transition with new toys or natural items from outdoors, or things children bring in to add a personal touch.”

St. Angela’s blends purposeful teacher-directed activities with child-led learning. Electives and special events enrich the weekly schedule: monthly gymnastics, music time with Ms. MaryLee, story visits from guest readers, and special appearances by firefighters, local dentists, and community helpers. Families also have access to six virtual parent workshops per year with early-childhood expert Gail Root—another sign of the preschool’s commitment to supporting parents as partners.

FAITH THAT FEELS NATURAL, WARM, AND WELCOMING

As a parish preschool, St. Angela’s incorporates faith in simple, meaningful ways. Children learn daily prayers, visit classroom prayer corners, and take part in blessings throughout the year. “Our faith-based curriculum is woven naturally into the rhythm of each day,” Perez says. This year, the school is adding a new tradition in honor of the feast of St. Nicholas: children will leave a shoe outside in the morning and return to a small treat from St. Nick—a sweet introduction to the Catholic tradition that children already look forward to.

The parish pastor also visits regularly, strengthening the connection between the school and St. Angela’s church community.

A SCHOOL WHERE FAMILIES TRULY BELONG

One of the most distinctive features of St. Angela’s is how deeply families are involved. “Our families are amazing!” Perez says with a smile. “Each class has two room parent volunteers, and they help with special events, fundraisers, class parties, and teacher appreciation.”

Parents feel that sense of partnership immediately—often even before enrolling. St. Angela’s parent Tiffany Donnelly shared that her family chose the school after glowing recommendations from local parents. “By the time we were finished with the tour, we were convinced that this was our place,” she says. “It felt, not just like a school, but like a place that understood and nurtured childhood.” What stood out most to her was the school’s focus on emotional development. “They focus on building confident, kind, emotionally aware kids, and that foundation was exactly what we wanted for our children.”

Philip Pegler, parent of past student Valerie, echoed that sentiment from a slightly different angle. “Most importantly, it was about finding a school for Valerie which reflected and supported our family’s values,” he shares. He explained that their family—Episcopalian and members of St. Mary’s By The Sea—wanted a faith-based environment that still felt open and inclusive. “We found that St. Angela’s is particularly good at welcoming families from a wide range of religions and ethnicities and creating an inclusive and respectful community.”

Parents also lend their skills to campus maintenance, help coordinate community events like Coffee Break socials, or volunteer during the beloved Thanksgiving Luncheon and Grandparents/Special Person Day. In many cases, the relationships built here stretch far beyond preschool. “Many of our staff go on to build long-lasting relationships with families,” Perez shares—something alumni families echo again and again.

OUTDOOR SPACES THAT INSPIRE PLAY AND CURIOSITY

With two playgrounds designed for ages 2–6, children have ample space to climb, pretend, explore, and collaborate. Outdoor play at St. Angela’s is purposeful: a chance to build motor skills, practice problem solving, and connect with friends. 

EXPERIENCED TEACHERS WHO LEAD WITH HEART

St. Angela’s is known for its exceptional staff—many of whom have been with the school for decades. “We have teachers with four to twenty-five years of service,” Perez says. “We host monthly meetings to stay up to date on training and join all diocesan schools several times a year for professional development.”

That collective experience and commitment translates to a stable, warm environment where children feel safe, supported, and known.

PREPARING CONFIDENT, CAPABLE KINDERGARTENERS

Families consistently describe St. Angela’s graduates as prepared learners who transition smoothly into kindergarten. Through ongoing parent-teacher conferences, assessments, and open communication, teachers partner closely with families to help children meet developmental milestones. “We thrive on helping children become independent, eager learners,” Perez says. 

The school also has the unique joy of educating multiple generations. “We have families who return with their own children, and it always brings a smile to our faces,” she adds.

LOOKING AHEAD WITH EXCITEMENT

In her first year leading the program, Perez is enthusiastic about the relationships she’s building and the year ahead. She’s especially excited about a major spring fundraiser that will bring the community together and support school programs. Her personal connection is strong too: “I recommend St. Angela’s not only as an administrator, but also as a parent,” she notes. “My three-year-old attends here and is thriving in so many areas.”

---

FOR MORE INFO:
St. Angela’s Preschool
136 8th St, Pacific Grove, 93950
(831) 372-3555
stangelaspreschool.org

---