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Photos courtesy of American Lutheran Pre-kindergarten
American Lutheran Pre-kindergarten: A Place Where Early Childhood Gets to Be Fun
There’s a certain kind of preschool where kids run in excited, parents linger just a little longer at drop-off, and learning happens almost without anyone noticing. That’s the feeling inside American Lutheran Pre-kindergarten, a downtown Billings program that believes early childhood should be joyful, playful, and full of discovery.
Tucked in the basement of American Lutheran Church Pre-kindergarten (ALC’s PreK), the program offers a half-day preschool experience centered on exploration rather than pressure. Children attend two or three mornings a week, learning how school works, how to be a friend, and how to feel comfortable in a classroom setting. Academics come later. Right now, the focus is on confidence, curiosity, and connection.
The program has quietly been part of the Billings community for more than 50 years. It was started by Pam Lowe, who remains a member of the church congregation today. In 2019, longtime early childhood educator Marianne Smith stepped in to lead the program after spending 16 years teaching at Messiah Lutheran. Teaching in church-based preschool programs is something Marianne knows well; she’s been doing it for two decades, and it shows in how classrooms feel both structured and relaxed.
ALC’s PreK embraces play-based learning, believing strong foundations come before formal academics. Children explore their world through hands-on activities, storytelling, and imaginative play. At ALC’s PreK, children are introduced to familiar Bible stories such as baby Jesus, Noah, and Goliath in age-appropriate ways, while the focus remains on kindness, respect, and learning how to be a good human. The goal is to support early values alongside play, curiosity, and social growth, meeting children right where they are.
Community connection plays a major role in the experience. Families are invited into the classroom for special celebrations throughout the year, including Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Valentine’s Day. Local community helpers such as firefighters, doctors, and dentists, visit to talk about their jobs, helping kids see the world beyond the classroom walls. In the past, the program has also partnered with volunteers from Wise Wonders for STEM-based activities nearby .
One of the lessons that tends to stay with students is learning how to be kind, patient, and thoughtful in the classroom with the schools Bee mascot, a cheerful reminder to “Beehave” at school. It’s playful, memorable, and very on-brand for a program that takes learning seriously without taking itself too seriously. Marianne even brings her background in Sesame Street–style puppetry into the classroom. A unique skill that turns everyday lessons into moments kids talk about long after school is over.
Being located downtown is something the program truly values. While preschool options in Billings have grown in recent years, families have followed Mrs. Smith across town to stay with the program, trading convenience for a place that feels right. That loyalty is one of the strongest affirmations the school receives.
Some of the most meaningful moments happen when families return. ALC’s Pre-K has welcomed students whose parents were once taught by the original owner, Pam Lowe, and continues to build relationships that span years. One current student is the youngest of five siblings taught by Mrs. Smith; the oldest is now graduating high school. It’s a reminder of how lasting these early connections can be.
The hope for every family who walks through the doors is simple,: that they feel their child will be safe, cared for, have fun, and grow in all the ways that matter at this age.
Families interested in learning more are encouraged to reach out, ask questions, and schedule a tour. Email marianne@amluth.org, visit alcprek.weebly.com, or follow American Lutheran Preschool, Billings on Facebook.
