A Loving, Faith-Centered Preschool Where Children Grow, Learn, and Thrive

Hope Lutheran Preschool is a Christian preschool serving families in the Portage Lakes community since 1997. As a ministry of Hope Lutheran Church, we provide a nurturing, faith-centered environment where young children learn, grow, and thrive.

Our preschool blends age-appropriate academics, purposeful play, and Christian values to support the whole child—spiritually, socially, emotionally, and academically—while preparing children for kindergarten and beyond.

Schedule A Tour

2026-2027 Enrollment Form

AGES

3-5 years

PROGRAMS

Preschool: M,W,F 8:30am – 12:00pm

Pre-K: M,T,W,T,F 8:30am – 12:00pm

LOCATION

Akron, Ohio

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OUR MISSION

Learning Through Play, Exploration, and Purpose

At Hope Lutheran Preschool, we believe children learn best through a balanced approach that combines structured learning with play-based experiences. Our curriculum is designed to meet children where they are, following their interests while supporting healthy social and emotional development.

Through teacher-guided activities, hands-on exploration, and meaningful peer interaction, children develop:

Early academic skills
Social and emotional confidence
Independence and curiosity
Spiritual awareness and character

PROGRAMS

Curriculum: A preschool experience that nurtures the whole child.

Our programs are built around developmentally appropriate practice, allowing children to learn through hands-on exploration, play-based activities, and guided instruction. We offer options for both 3 year olds and 4-5 year olds, with schedules designed to meet family needs.

Preschool: designed to help young learners build independence, social skills, and early academic readiness through gentle routines and lots of hands-on engagement.
Pre-K: prepares students for kindergarten with deeper literacy, number sense, problem-solving, and structured learning — still rooted in play and exploration.

Enrollment Requirements:

Preschool: 3 years by school cut-off date in your school district.
Pre-K: 4 years by school cut-off date in your school district.
All children must be potty trained and those in Pre-K must have intentions to attend Kindergarten the following school year.

Tuition (September-May):

Preschool – 3 days: $200/month
Pre-K – 5 days: $250/month
Enrollment Fee: $50 (non-refundable) at the time of registration.
Sibling Discount: 10% off the second child (If you have children in both classes, the discount applies to the younger child.
Enrollment form:

What Your Child Will Experience Each Day:

Morning routing & circle time
Language & literacy practice
Math, manipulatives & early numeracy
Art, music, dramatic play
Science, sensory, nature exploration
Gross motor play indoors and outdoors
Bible stories, prayer, and character-building moments

Daily Schedule Example:

Table Time
Free Play
Opening
Bathroom/Snack
Gross/Fine Motor Play
Story Time/Singing
Closing

MEET OUR STAFF:

The Heart of Our School

Dedicated to Your Child’s Growth and Well-Being

Our experienced preschool teachers are highly qualified and committed to providing exceptional care and education. All staff meet or exceed Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) licensing requirements and bring decades of combined early childhood teaching experience.

Our teachers are CPR and First Aid certified, trained in child safety and health practices, and participate in ongoing professional development. Most importantly, they are passionate about creating a safe, joyful, and faith-filled classroom environment where children feel loved, supported, and excited to learn.

LEAD TEACHER – Jackie Langenek

Jackie holds a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education (Ages 3–Grade 3) from The University of Akron. With over 20 years of experience, she has served as Head Teacher and Administrator at Hope Lutheran Preschool since 2004. Jackie is passionate about creating a nurturing, faith-based environment that supports each child’s academic, social, and spiritual growth. She lives in Akron with her husband and two children.

TEACHER ASSISTANT – Denise Hodgkinson

Denise brings over 35 years of experience in early childhood education. She completed specialized early childhood training at Ellet High School and earned a Certificate of Completion as a Child Care Assistant after extensive vocational skills training. Denise has been a valued Teacher Assistant at Hope Lutheran Preschool since 1997 and is dedicated to creating a supportive, caring classroom environment. She lives in Akron with her husband and daughter.

TEACHER ASSISTANT – Allison Bertison

Allison has been a teacher at Hope Lutheran Preschool for four years and has been a lifelong member of Hope Lutheran Church. She is passionate about faith-based education and creating a loving classroom environment where children feel supported and encouraged to grow. Outside the classroom, she enjoys running and spending time with her husband and three amazing children. She lives in Green, Ohio.