Saint Raphael Preschool

Saint Raphael Preschool offers a play-based, developmentally appropriate program that includes art, science, math, dramatic play, music and movement, books, stories and literacy, and activities for large and small motor development. Children take part in a weekly music class with guitar-led instruction by Mr. Orjuela (“Mr. O”) that includes singing, dancing, and playing, and a bi-weekly karate class with Coach Derek that introduces basic martial arts. The program also uses the Kimochis social-emotional development curriculum and participates in the HEAL (Healthy Eating, Active Living) Program, which includes nutrition education, exercise, and free HEAL classes and workshops for families.

• Ages: 3–6 years old
• Schedule: 4.5-hour daily program during a 180-day school year, plus a 6-week summer program, with options for 5 days per week or 2, 3, or 4 days per week attendance and extended care before and after school

Saint Raphael Preschool is guided by Dominican values and is united with Saint Raphael K-8 Elementary School and Church. The program includes two classrooms: the Angels Class for 3–4-year-olds, which focuses on transition to group experience and social/emotional development, and the Saints Class for Pre-Kindergarten 4-year-olds, which focuses on readiness for Kindergarten. Each class has 22 children with 2 teachers and 1 aide, for a ratio of about 7–8 children per adult, and Dominican University Work Study students provide extra support in the classrooms.

The leadership team includes Director Edith Yates; Saints Teachers Melissa Pakka and Teena Madison; Angels Teachers Schnabie Beard and Claudia Callejas; Afternoon Teacher/Office Assistant Melissa Morales; and Substitute Teachers Zaretee Cervera and Kathy Damato. Coach Derek, who leads the karate classes, is a Marin County native with over 25 years of martial arts experience and is a fourth-degree black belt.

Saint Raphael Preschool’s mission statement says it is guided by Dominican values and partners with parents to support the holistic development of young children spiritually, emotionally, physically, and intellectually, in a safe, nurturing, faith-based environment that fosters children’s awareness of God’s love and prepares them to become well-rounded, responsible citizens. The preschool is licensed under Lic #213005559 and is a member of the Marin Quality Counts Program. It participates in the HEAL Program and has received the GOLD: GROWING STRONG AWARD from Marin Child Care Council for its dedication to child health and wellness and quality child care. Marin Child Care Council nominated Kathy Damato as Teacher of the Year and nominated Edith Yates for Director of the Year in 2019.

Last updated May 16, 2026.