St. Edward’s Preschool Celebrates 55 Years of Nurturing Young Minds and Hearts
By Heather Fortson, Director
For 55 years, St. Edward’s Preschool & VPK in Mount Dora has been helping young children learn, grow, and thrive in a loving, faith-centered environment. Over the past decade alone, more than 300 students have begun their educational journey at the school.
Serving children ages 1–5, the preschool combines academic readiness with Christian values, creativity, and hands-on learning experiences designed to support the whole child.
“Preschool is far more than a place for children to spend the day,” said Heather Fortson, Director of St. Edward’s Preschool & VPK. “It’s where confidence is built, friendships are formed, and children discover the joy of learning.”
Research shows that nearly 90 percent of brain development occurs before age five, making the early years a critical time for learning and growth. At St. Edward’s, children engage in activities that foster cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development through sensory exploration, early literacy, math readiness, art, music, and purposeful play.
Reading is a treasured part of each day, with students enjoying multiple books and stories that help develop language skills and a lifelong love of learning. Music fills the classrooms with songs that inspire joy, movement, and faith.
Faith formation is woven naturally into the preschool experience. Through daily prayer, Christian teachings, and weekly chapel services led by Father Mark Lafler, children learn the values of kindness, gratitude, compassion, and respect for others.
Community involvement is also an important part of the preschool’s mission. Students participate in seasonal outreach projects, including visits to local nursing home residents during the Christmas season, and help care for the school’s butterfly garden, learning stewardship and responsibility through hands-on experiences.
A strong preschool foundation helps children develop independence, communication skills, emotional confidence, and readiness for kindergarten and beyond. At St. Edward’s Preschool, every child is known, valued, and encouraged to reach their full potential in a nurturing Christian environment.
As the school celebrates its 55th anniversary, it continues its commitment to providing a joyful, faith-filled foundation for future generations of learners. The impact of that mission can be seen not only in the classroom, but also in the lives of the hundreds of children and families who have been part of the St. Edward’s Preschool community.
Now Enrolling for the 2026–2027 School Year
Families interested in tours, curriculum information, admissions, or registration are invited to learn more at preschool.stedwardsepiscopal.com or contact St. Edward’s Preschool & VPK at (352) 383-0290.
