On May 21, 2026, our preschool staff and families gathered with friends and relatives to celebrate graduation from our early childhood education program. The ceremony featured musical performances, the presentation of diplomas, and a graduation message from Pastor Matt Duerr that sent students forward with both encouragement and faith.

Pastor Matt calls graduation “The Great Sending of Today.” Drawing from Matthew 10:16, he reminded graduates and their families that Jesus never sends anyone out alone.

“As you move forward into this next chapter of your life, remember that Jesus’ promise is also for you,” he said. “Through both educational and scriptural teaching, you have been equipped for what lies ahead.”

Our graduation ceremony included performances by both of our transitional kindergarten classes, who took the stage to share songs they had learned throughout the year. Serena Pedretti and Evangelina Fernandez led the Pledge of Allegiance, and the ceremony concluded with a reception in the Parish Hall.

We are proud to congratulate the St. Paul Preschool Class of 2026: Connor Cesar, Jordan Conas, Diego de Ayora, Evangelina Fernandez, Jessa Opinski, Amelia Welch, Aspyn Brummell, Beau Banks, Grant Cecil, Maddox Cortes, Serena Pedretti, Rhett Sanders, Jeremiah Villegas, Kash Weger, and Griffin Williamson.

We pray God’s blessings on each of these students as they head into kindergarten and beyond.

What a joy it has been to watch them grow.

St. Paul School and Preschool has been serving Merced County families since 1991. The school is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and National Lutheran School Accreditation (NLSA), and affiliated with the Lutheran Church — Missouri Synod.