Above: the Weekday Ministry in its 17th year of service.

The Weekday Preschool Program is no longer available.
In 2016, the Weekday Preschool Program concluded its ministry and will no longer host students. You may be interested in Parent’s Day Out, a 2 day a week program for children 6 weeks old – Pre-K that occurs on Tuesdays and Thursdays during the school year. Tap or click here to learn more about Parent’s Day Out!

A special thank you for 47 years of
Weekday Ministry at First Baptist Cleveland

In 1969, an idea was sparked by Rev. Bill Cooper and his wife to begin First Baptist’s first preschool. What began as a humble program with thirty students quickly evolved, and in August 1977, First Baptist purchased Cleveland Day School.

With the passion and vision of Rodney Van Dyke (director from 1972-1976), Nancy (Howard) Guinn (director from 1976-1977), and Nell Rose Ware (director from 1977-1995) First Baptist Weekday Ministry continued to flourish. This school has been a well known staple of Cleveland in its many years of service. More than a school, however, Weekday Ministry impacted the lives of the children attending by introducing a loving and impactful God into their lives during their most formative years.

Through the Years

  • 6,500 children served by this ministry
  • Several families have attended for three generations
  • Sharon Hamilton served over 40 years, teaching over 300 children (1976-2016)
  • Ms. Janet taught 700 children

Directors of the Weekday Ministry

Barbara Cropper

Director

Rodney Van Dyke

Director, 1972-1976

Nancy (Howard) Guinn

Director, 1976-1977

Nell Rose Ware

Director, 1977-1995

Arbutus Smith

Director, 1992-2002

Nancy Torchick

Director, 2002-2016

As this chapter in our church’s history closes, we thank those who have served in this ministry for their support and dedication and look forward to what God has prepared for the future of our church.