Bearcat Discovery Center
About Us
The Bearcat Discovery Center Preschool and Before and After-School Program were established in 1996 and are located on the beautiful Union Hill School District campus. Our programs provide high-quality care and learning experiences for children from 2 years old through 8th grade and are designed with the needs of children and families in our community.
Preschool
Our year-round Preschool Program welcomes children ages 2–5. We promote learning through hands-on, age-appropriate exploration and play that build school readiness skills.
Our teachers create engaging learning experiences that support each child’s growth—social, emotional, cognitive, and physical. Children are encouraged to explore, create, discover, ask questions, and problem-solve in a safe, supportive environment.
Expanded Learning: Before & After School Enrichment
Our year-round Before and After School Programs provide an engaging, structured environment for TK–8th-grade students enrolled at Union Hill School.
Our staff supports homework help and a variety of hands-on activities for each grade level. We understand the importance of self-esteem and social-emotional development, helping students build confidence and positive relationships.
Funding Programs Offered
- Before and After-School Enrichment- Grades 1-8
- Expanded learning opportunities are free of charge for families who qualify for the California Universal Meals Program. You may see if you are eligible here: Income Verification
- Fee-based sessions are $5.50 per hour, per student.
- State Preschool Program
- Children who turn 3 by December 1st or on their 3rd birthday. Families must qualify with income and need.
- Private Pay Preschool Program
- Children 2.5 – 5 years of age. We offer two, three, or five days per week, either part-day or full-day care.
- Voucher Preschool Program
- Children are accepted and are referred from Sierra Nevada Children’s Services (SNCS). Care is offered based on the certification from SNCS.
- Voucher School Age Program - Children are accepted that are referred from Sierra Nevada Children’s Services (SNCS) are accepted. Care is offered based on the certification from SNCS.
Staff
Our philosophy centers on the belief that caring, qualified educators are the key to meaningful learning. All teachers hold permits through the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing and maintain their credentials through ongoing professional development. We take pride in having a dedicated, educated team committed to providing exceptional care and instruction to every Bearcat Discovery Center child.
Staff members are fingerprinted through the Department of Justice, trained in CPR, First Aid, and Health and Safety, and regularly participate in workshops and monthly meetings.
Staff Directory:
Kelsey Martin • Megan Green • Teresa Fleschute • Lindsay Muhlbach • Sonia Stauffer • Angelica Uribe • Mikee Benuzzi • Wanda Busselle • Pam Kirk • Alicia Brandau • Drew Ferrier • Cheyenne Curtis • Socorro Barron • Claude Dixon • Tyler Anawalt