About Us

St. Luke-Simpson Childcare Center

About St. Luke-Simpson

The mission of SLS Preschool is to nurture your child’s growth in a safe Christian learning environment. Our professional caring staff is dedicated to providing fun, child-centered teachings and quality childcare that help your child to prepare for success.St. Luke-Simpson Preschool had its beginnings at St. Luke-Simpson United Methodist Church on Jefferson Drive in Lake Charles in 1988. After one year at that site, the preschool moved along with the church to its new location and new church building on Country Club Rd. with Rev. Thomas Dunbar as its minister. Becky Davis served as the first director. The preschool started with one 2 yr. old class, two 3 yr. old classes, two 4 yr. old classes and one kindergarten class. There was one nap room with 6-8 children. The preschool has since grown tremendously. In August 2008, the present preschool opened its doors. As of this school year with the guidance and leadership of our director newest Kay Johnson, our school has grown to include three infant rooms, three toddler rooms, three 2 yr. old classes, three 3 yr. old classes and one pre-k (4 yr. old) class. There are 13 nap rooms with over 160 children. The faculty and staff have grown in twenty years from 9 employees to over 50 employees. Today, St. Luke-Simpson United Methodist Church has become a leading congregation in the community. Under the leadership of its present Lead pastor, Rev. John Robert Black, St. Luke-Simpson seeks to serve the needs of the rapidly growing southern area of Lake Charles. The church has a rich heritage in faith and has a promising future in ministry in the years to come.

Our Staff

Leann ManualLeann Hebert – Director  Ann FisterAnn Fister – Morning Office Cathy BerryhillCathy Berryhill – Bookkeeper Mary Jean MarnichMary Jean Marnich – Afternoon Office
Leann Manuel has been at St. Luke-Simpson Child Care Center for 8 years. She has served as a 3 year old nap room teacher, a morning teacher in the summer, and Afternoon Supervisor. She has also served as the Infant and Toddlers Supervisor. For the last 4 years she has served as the  Assistant Director. Her favorite part of her job is getting to love on all the children and see their excitement in learning new things every day. Leann is known for 3 things around the preschool; loving the LSU Tigers, New Orleans Saints, and of course all the SLS kids! Ann Fister was born in Louisville, Kentucky. She met her husband, George while attending high school there. They have been married for 49 years. They have two children, Joey and Carrie. Ann attended the University of Florida and earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education. Ann and George moved to Lake Charles in 1970. George and Ann also owned and operated a retail garden center and florist shop. After they sold that business Ann started as a substitute at St. Luke-Simpson Child Care Center. She loved working with the children and soon became a full time employee. She’s held several different positions at our Center, but is currently the office manager. She’s been employed here for over 10 years. Ann says her favorite part of her job is getting to greet and know all of the parents and children that walk through the doors each morning. Cathy Berryhill, bookkeeper. Mary Jean Marnich has been working at St. Luke Simpson for over 12 years. She has been married to her wonderful husband Tim for 32 years and has two children, Melissa and Nick. She has three grand children, two that currently attend St. Luke Simpson Child Care Center. She is also in charge of the colorful bulletin board in the hallway. She loves the kids and is very friendly to everyone.