History

Sharon and Jim Bright

Sharon and Jim Bright

Growing Together Preschool was founded by Sharon and Jim Bright in March 1993.  Sharon, a former kindergarten teacher, had seen the lack of basic preparation and experiences in many of the students she taught.  She was aware that early childhood research and common wisdom make it clear that the preschool years are a critical time to invest in children.

Thus, Growing Together Preschool was created to work with four year olds from low-income areas in Raleigh.  Sharon and Jim Bright retired July 1, 2005.  They asked Kathy Boos to continue their important work.

For seven years, Kathy had taught and directed a sister preschool program for at-risk three year olds living in public housing under the auspices of Building Together Ministries.  This program was coordinated with the Brights’ program, and many of her three year olds moved on to Growing Together Preschool for their four year old preschool experience.  Thus, Kathy and the Brights worked together for seven years, and it was natural for Kathy to accept the Brights’ invitation in 2005 to lead Growing Together Preschool.