StM News

A Reimagined Home for Early Childhood Learning

Laughter, light, and possibility now fill the newly renewed George Cottage, where St. Martin’s youngest Saints will take their first steps into a life of learning. Designed with intention and imagination, the renovated three-year-old classrooms and expansive outdoor play space signal more than a physical transformation. They represent a renewed commitment to early childhood education and to shaping environments where curiosity is honored, joy is cultivated, and each child is known and nurtured from the very beginning.

On December 11, St. Martin’s Episcopal School marked a meaningful milestone with the blessing and grand opening of the newly renovated George Cottage three-year-old classrooms. The moment reflected both the school’s resilience and its forward-looking vision, celebrating a space designed to elevate the earliest years of the St. Martin’s experience.

After a fire on the first day of the 2022 school year required the temporary relocation of the three-year-old program for several years, the reopening of George Cottage represented far more than a return. It reflected a commitment to build back with purpose and care, creating an environment that strengthens the program and enriches how young children learn, explore, and grow.

The renewed George Cottage features light-filled, thoughtfully designed classrooms that invite curiosity, creativity, and connection. Just beyond the classroom doors, a stunning 10,000 square foot playground offers space for movement, exploration, and imaginative play. Together, these environments support a developmentally rich approach to learning, where discovery and joy are central to the daily experience of young children. The new spaces are a perfect expression of the Cottage's Reggio-Emilia-inspired approach, which emphasizes allowing children to follow their natural curiosity and creativity, thereby stimulating a love for learning. 

St. Martin’s was honored to welcome the many individuals whose generosity and dedication made this transformation possible. Donors, designers, contractors, board members, and volunteers came together around a shared belief in the importance of early childhood education. The school extends heartfelt gratitude to the Schlieder Foundation, Kim and Dr. Eric George, the Libby Dufour Fund, Jennifer and Bruce Parkerson, Dr. George Pankey, Daisy VanDenburgh, Julia Bland, and the many others whose support helped bring this vision to life. Their collective investment has created a space that will serve generations of Saints for years to come.

During the December 11 celebration, Bishop Shannon Duckworth blessed the building and reflected on St. Martin’s nearly 80-year tradition of nurturing curiosity, compassion, and opportunity from the earliest years. His remarks affirmed the school’s mission and the belief that education at St. Martin’s shapes not only strong students, but thoughtful and grounded individuals.

George Cottage Head Megan Morales welcomed guests into the space with warmth and pride, inviting families, faculty, and friends to explore the classrooms and outdoor areas. Attendees were encouraged to leave written wishes for the children who will learn and grow within George Cottage in the years ahead. The gesture captured the heart of the celebration, underscoring that the space is defined not by walls alone, but by the relationships and experiences it will hold.

Early childhood education has long been a cornerstone of the St. Martin’s experience. From the very beginning, the school is committed to meeting children with care, curiosity, and respect for who they are becoming. The renewed George Cottage embodies that philosophy, offering an environment that supports the whole child academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually.

As George Cottage reopens its doors, it does so with a renewed sense of possibility. The space stands as a reflection of a community united by shared values and a school committed to investing thoughtfully in its future. Within these classrooms and play spaces, the foundation is being laid for confident learners, compassionate citizens, and the next generation of Saints.