Explorer Preschool's History

On April 26, 1960, Explorer Preschool (formerly Cambrian Parent's Preschool) welcomed its first families in two bare rooms and a large weeded outdoor area. The initial budget was zero. Kathi (Murry) Levin provided the leadership as Director/Teacher and remained on the staff until 1977. Bev Tucker joined the staff in 1969 and worked with Kathi until 1977. The program continued to grow with the addition of a class for two year olds created by Konne Ainsworth. Next, proving that necessity is the mother of all inventions, Konne and Bobbie (Ingram) Burri put their heads together to create the afternoon preK program for students who had completed the MWF class but were not yet old enough for Kindergarten (of which Konne’s son was one!) The outdoor program at Vasona Park began both to save money on rent and to provide the children with a unique nature experience. The first class had just 12 children in it, and despite the fact that it has grown to 24, the same spirit of discovery and excitement still fills each group. Then in 1977, Konne took charge as Explorer’s Director, and she continues to thoughtfully guide Explorer into the wonderful experience for preschoolers that it is today.

In 1980, Cambrian Parents Preschool moved from the Cambrian area to a new location on Branham Lane. At that time, the Board began a search for a new name and logo. The name chosen, Explorer, represents the ideals and philosophy of our school. In 1986, we moved to a location on Union Avenue. Then in 2003, we moved again, this time to our current location on Booksin Avenue, where we commenced building a new outdoor classroom that was dedicated in April 2004. Although our school has moved, developed different play yards and changed its name, Explorer has always had the community support and excellent programs which exist today.