My name is Sarah Kleinschmit, I joined the staff at Saint Paul the Apostle as the new Early Childhood Director in February of this year. I am very excited to be part of this welcoming community. I have enjoyed connecting with families and parishioners at school and during the wonderful community events.

I grew up in Kalamazoo and attended Kalamazoo Catholic Schools, then graduated from Aquinas College with a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and Early Childhood Education. I met my wonderful husband at Aquinas, he is also a teacher in the Grand Rapids area. We have two children Noah, our insightful 9-year-old, Liesl our animated 5-year-old, and the best doggo named Bambi. I enjoy spending time with my family camping, baking delicious treats, and watching Broadway musicals together.

I started my early childhood career working at the Grand Rapids Early Discovery Center as a teacher’s aide, then as the lead teacher in the Early Preschool Classroom caring for children ages 2.5 to 3 years old. I was the lead teacher for 3 years, then I decided to open my own in-home child care in 2017. I cared for children from birth through 5 years of age in my child care. My favorite part of owning a child care was the relationships I built with children and families. My family still has play dates and stays connected with many of my former students.

I am thrilled to be joining St. Paul during this time of growth and new beginnings. It is very exciting to be in the new beautiful Early Childhood Center and start this new chapter with the St. Paul community. I am looking forward to a great school year!

Peace and Joy
Sarah