Lil' Tigers Preschool opens on Stockton's Main Street
by Roger Hrabe, September 1, 2010

Sometimes when one door closes, another door opens.  Such is the case with Stockton latest entrepreneurial venture--Lil' Tigers Preschool.   With the budget cuts forced upon the local school district, Stacey Keas found herself as a victim of the downsizing.  But still with a passion for teaching, Keas decided to open a preschool in Stockton and continue working with area youth.

Keas saw the need for a preschool in Stockton, since very few options existed outside the school system.  "I wasn't looking to do daycare" Keas stated. "I am a teacher, and that is what I wanted to continue to do."  

With the help of husband Doug, and the labor of young men from Teen Challenge in Alton, the building located at 511 Main was renovated from office space to rooms that are kid and learning friendly.  Bright colors on the walls, newly-covered floors, and plenty of bulletin board material make the rooms inviting.  Parents have access to the rear of the building for loading and unloading, so they do not have to find parking on Main Street.

Keas held her first enrollment at the end of August and has enough children to fill a morning class.   Afternoons will be spent continuing to renovate portions of the building that still need some work.  As the number of children enrolled increases, afternoon classes will be added.

Lil' Tigers Preschool can be reached by calling 785-623-1918.