North Decatur United Methodist Church was founded with children in mind.  Elizabeth Thompson opened a pre-k and kindergarten in the late 1950's to bridge the gap between the local preschools and elementary schools.  As the community changed throughout the decades NDUMC responded by opening a Parents Morning Out program and later a nationally recognized Art With Heart program. 

 

Today the School at North Decatur ("SAND") is proud to be recognized as a School of Excellence by the NGUMC.  Our outdoor, urban preschool is a Reggio Emilia inspired program serving families with children ages 1 through Pre-K. 

 

 

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A Letter from the Pastor of North Decatur UMC

 

SAND is a ministry of North Decatur UMC. 

 

August 14, 2025

 

Dear SAND Families,

 

Welcome to SAND – the School At North Decatur United Methodist Church! We are honored to welcome you and your child as part of this creative and nurturing community.

 

This is the second year I will have the privilege of witnessing the growth and learning of SAND children under the gentle guidance of teachers and staff who work together to provide the most dynamic outdoor education program for your child possible.

 

North Decatur UMC is a faith community that takes seriously God’s call to creatively participate in life with the community around us. SAND is an important part of living into that call as we welcome children onto the campus, help them grow, and celebrate the many gifts they bring to the world. We also celebrate your trust in us. Dropping off your child for the first time in a new environment can be a difficult and scary thing to do! We take your trust seriously and we are grateful that you have chosen North Decatur UMC as a partner in caring for your child.

 

Please know that if you have any questions about the church or the preschool program at NDUMC, I am always open to conversation with you. Feel free to contact me at (nanci@ndumc.org).

 

We welcome the opportunity to be partners with you if your family is seeking a spiritual community to share life’s journey.  We gather for worship online and in our sanctuary every Sunday at 10:00am. You can find us on Facebook and YouTube every week.  We also have several opportunities to join book clubs, Bible studies, and small group discussions. You are always welcome!

 

I look forward to getting to know you!

 

Blessings,

 

 

The Rev. Nanci Hicks

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For more information on North Decatur United Methodist Church, please click the button below to visit their website.