Shelby University is a full-time and part-time childcare center that accepts children ages six weeks old to 12 years old. The 13,000-sq. foot facility has a large indoor and outdoor play area and can hold as many as 163 children. The staff prides itself in security and high-tech features such as access cards to enter and exit the building and a web cam that allows parents to view their children online. Meals are provided to the children at no extra cost.
The preschool utilizes Montessori methods to teach skills in reasoning, thinking, focusing, and learning Spanish as a second language. This early development and experience provides children with a sound educational foundation.
St. Lawrence Church, which sits on 15-acres near the Utica border, is made up of the present church, rectory, school and cemetery. Founded in 1886, St. Lawrence was the first Catholic Church in Utica. The State of Michigan recognized it as the oldest religious community in the city. The school, which opened in 1931, was originally run by nuns. Now, the school is taught by teachers and its curriculum focuses on word, sacrament and service. Nearly 800 students attend in grades preschool through 8th.
More than 830 students attend Duncan Elementary School. Duncan educates children from preschool through sixth grade. The 28th elementary school in the district opened in 2002. It's named after Richard J. Duncan, an area businessman and community supporter. Duncan is a founding member and five-time president of the Utica Community Schools Foundation for Educational Excellence. The school has an award-winning curriculum and opportunities for students to participate in many clubs.