(All renderings were created to depict the vision of Crusader Station.)
There will be an engine car, a train car, and a caboose – all joined by a beautiful, large deck in the middle. Classrooms will be in individual railway cars. Each railway car will house two classrooms that are adjoined by a middle shared space that will hold bathrooms and cubbies.
All classrooms will be outfitted with state-of-the-art whiteboards and projectors. Teachers will also have new computers.
The preschool and playground area will be fully fenced and gated. All new IT security will be implemented. All doors will be locked at all times and only staff with badges will be able to scan in.
All new playground equipment will be installed to give our little Crusaders a fun place to socialize and play!
Crusader Station Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Preschool moving?
The First Presbyterian Academy Preschool is relocating to the other side of campus in order to allow the school to occupy school buildings fully owned and operated by the school. The move will give the Preschool the independence to develop to its fullest potential.
Who is moving?
All K3 and K4 classes are moving into Crusader Station. Preschool Director Laurie Thrasher will also have an office on the Crusader Station campus. K5, Music, Learning Difference and the IGNITE Gifted Program will be relocating to the 300 Building (current Lower School.) Classrooms at the Downtown Primary School location will not be affected.
What will Crusader Station look like?
The new Preschool Campus will be located on the Upper School side of campus off of Shamrock Land and will depict a railway station with classrooms designed to look like railway cars. Each car will house two, fully redone classrooms with a shared bathroom in the middle. All cars will be connected by a beautiful, large deck.
Will there be a playground area?
All new playground equipment is being installed to give our little Crusaders a fun and safe place to socialize and play. The Playground will be located between Crusader Station and Upper School ball fields.
What kind of technology will be available in each classroom?
All Preschool classrooms will be outfitted with state-of-the-art whiteboards and projectors. Teachers will also have new computers.
How will the new campus be secured?
The Preschool and playground area will be fully fenced in and gated. All new IT security will be implemented. All doors will be locked at all times and only staff with badges will be able to scan in to enter. Our school Security Guard will include Crusader Station in his normal rotations.
Will students still be able to order lunches?
K3 & K4 students will still have the same daily lunch ordering options. In fact, all K3 -12th Grade lunch orders will be processed and paid for online for the 2023-2024 school year.
How will drop- off and pick-up carlines work?
Carlines will be routed adjacent to Shamrock Lane. Students will exit cars directly in front of the entrance to Crusader Station.
When will construction on Crusader Station be completed?
The project completion is set for June/July. All classrooms will be ready for the start of the 2023-2024 school year.
For more information, please contact Preschool Director Laurie Thrasher at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
The Academy
K3 - K4 Full Day and Half Day
First Presbyterian Academy at Shannon Forest offers both full day and half day programs for K3 and a full day program for K4 students. Each child receives instruction with sensitivity to developmental stages and is taught by experienced, degreed teachers. Students remain active and engaged throughout the day. In addition to a challenging academic program, students are also nurtured in their social and emotional needs according to a biblical worldview. Classroom management and discipline are viewed through the lens of Scripture. Related Arts classes include Music, Physical Education, and Chapel.
Hours of Operation:
- Early Stay available at 7:15 a.m.
- Students may begin entering classrooms at 7:50 a.m.
- School Day:
Full Day 8:10 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Half Day Program 8:10 - 12:30 p.m. - Late Stay is available from 3:00 - 5:00 p.m.
- All School Early Dismissal - 11:45 a.m.