At Parkway Preschool, purposeful play has a place alongside early literacy

Play has a deliberate place in the school day at Parkway Preschool. The Roanoke program treats children’s curiosity as a starting point for learning, combining activities initiated by children with experiences guided by teachers.

A ministry of Parkway Church, the preschool serves children ages two through five. Its educational philosophy recognizes that young children develop at different rates and learn through both individual exploration and interaction with others. Books and other print materials are part of that environment, supporting early literacy alongside play.

The program also gives families a central role. Parents are treated as partners in the educational process, with the understanding that learning begins at home and continues through the relationships a child builds at school. That connection fits the preschool’s broader mission of helping children develop confidence, a sense of accomplishment and an understanding that they are loved by God.

Nikki Weddle serves as executive preschool director. Blake King leads the Mountain preschool, Cindy Spencer is assistant preschool director, and Audrey Walker serves as supervisor and Vinton preschool director. Their distinct responsibilities support the program’s work across its locations.

Parkway offers part-day and full-day options, and its website provides registration information for the 2026–27 school year. Families can use those materials to explore the current program and contact the preschool about class availability and schedules.

The appeal of Parkway’s approach lies in the relationship between its parts: purposeful play, early literacy, teacher guidance and family involvement. Each contributes to an environment designed for the years before elementary school, when a child’s interest in learning is still taking shape.

The Mountain location is at 3645 Orange Avenue NE in Roanoke. Contact Parkway at 540-342-3968 or preschool@parkwayroanoke.com.