Liberty Lake preschool grows into new building

Kids aren’t the only thing growing fast at the Liberty Lake Children’s Academy.

The preschool itself has blossomed since owner-director Teri Finch first opened seven years ago.

“I started in the basement of my home in 2004. I started with five children,” said Finch, a 1992 graduate of the University of Idaho with a degree in child development and family relations. “The following year I had 30 children with three classes – three years later I had a waiting list … and we moved into our building.”

With its continued expansion – and some 130 students, the Children’s Academy kicked off this school year by relocating to another new building in the same complex located near the Home Depot. The 3,500-square-foot building provides three classrooms and lets Finch schedule more preschool options.

Half-day classes are offered in the morning and afternoon and are catered to children ages 3 to 5. Preschool programs include two- to four-day options that range in price from $140 to $220 per month. A weekly toddler and parent class also is available for $70 per month.

“My motivation to keep growing was because I felt terrible when I didn’t have room for someone,” says Finch, who now has a staff of eight employees and a handful of regular substitute teachers.

While most classes are filled, Finch has a waiting list as well as a future student sign-up list. She says she often gets calls soon after families find out they’re pregnant, noting: “I have a 2015 waiting list!”

With a steady stream of students, Finch is grateful to parents and businesses for their support that includes helping with fundraisers for such things as tuition scholarships and playground equipment.

Her fulfillment continues as she keeps in contact with many who have gone through her program. “My first group of students graduate from fifth grade this year.”