Preschool with purpose.
At Apostles Lutheran Preschool, we believe learning should be joyful, imaginative, and rooted in God's truth. Our classrooms are filled with laughter, creativity, and opportunities to explore. Through small class sizes, Christ-centered teaching, and a strong emphasis on fine arts, we help children grow in confidence, kindness, and school readiness.
We partner with families to provide not just a quality education—but a lasting spiritual foundation.
Our Curriculum
A fine arts focus.
Rooted in God’s love, our curriculum nurtures faith and prepares children for kindergarten through hands-on learning, social-emotional growth, and age-appropriate academics. A fine arts focus sets us apart—students explore music, visual art, and movement with a certified instructor, building creativity and confidence along the way.
Faculty & Staff
Meet our caring team.
Our staff brings a deep love for early learning and a strong commitment to sharing the hope of Jesus. Each child is welcomed into a Christ-centered environment where they are loved, guided, and equipped to grow academically, socially, and spiritually.
Melissa Bickelhaupt
Preschool Director & Lead Teacher
Melissa Bickelhaupt
Preschool Director & Lead Teacher
Hello! My name is Melissa Bickelhaupt, and I’ve had the joy of serving as the Lead Teacher and Director at Apostles Lutheran Preschool since 2017. With over 13 years of teaching experience, I’m passionate about guiding young learners through these precious early years of development.
I hold a Bachelor of Science in Education from Martin Luther College in New Ulm, Minnesota (Class of 1999). I have continued my professional growth through numerous Early Childhood and music therapy courses. These studies have deepened my understanding of how children learn best—through creativity, movement, and meaningful connection.
My teaching philosophy leans toward a collaborative and holistic approach. I strive to create an engaging environment where children feel safe, valued, and encouraged to explore. I love incorporating music and hands-on experiences to help children connect with new ideas and concepts in ways that are both joyful and impactful.
Hands-on science and cultural studies are especially important in my classroom. Through exploration, observation, and discovery, young children begin to understand the world around them. Whether we’re experimenting with basic scientific concepts or learning about different cultures, these experiences build curiosity, empathy, and a broader worldview—laying the foundation for lifelong learning.
My greatest treasure as a teacher is sharing Jesus’ love. Through daily Bible lessons, memory treasures, and songs, the children learn about God's grace, mercy, and love. It’s a privilege to help them grow not only academically and socially, but also spiritually as they learn about their Savior.
Outside the classroom, I’m married to Jay Bickelhaupt, and we have three wonderful children. Our son Gabe is in the full-time workforce, Noah is finishing his last year of college, and our youngest, Emma, will be starting her freshman year of college this fall. In my free time, I enjoy tending to my plants and spending time in the kitchen cooking for family and friends.
Katherine Jore
Art Teacher & Aide
Katherine Jore
Art Teacher & Aide
Heather Wenz
Preschool Aide & Sunday School Director
Heather Wenz
Preschool Aide & Sunday School Director
Heather was born in Montana. She and her husband have four children, and live in Shepherd. Heather has always had a special place in her heart for children. Starting with watching siblings and cousins, then babysitting, and nannying. Children have played a big role in her life.
Starting college in Helena, at Carroll College, she met a wonderful family she nannied for 2 years. That family took her to Washington, where she continued her education at Yakima Valley College, getting a degree in the certified occupational therapy assistant program. She then moved back to Billings, started working at St. Vincent Hospital, and got married to her husband Karl. Soon after, four children came, and raising them was a true joy.
Heather left her job at the hospital to be a full time mom. While her children were little she opened her home as a daycare for some families in the Shepherd area. When her kids were old enough they all attended Apostles’ preschool. Once the children were in school out in Shepherd, she began volunteering at the Shepherd schools. This grew into a Para position working in Shepherd elementary with the special education program. After five years working for Shepherd schools, Heather learned of an opportunity to serve at Apostles’ preschool.
Heather has been working at Apostles for five years. She enjoys working with the staff and all the wonderful children and their families. Heather serves as a preschool aid. She is the “Snackologist” at the preschool, and works hard to find fun, safe, and appropriate snacks for the children.
Program Options
Flexible options for your family.
The 2025-2026 school year begins September 2, 2025 and follows the schedule for School District 2 with minor changes.
Morning Session
3–5 years of age (3 by September 10th) and potty trained.
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
8:30 AM — 11:30 AM
Monthly Tuition: $300
Afternoon Session
4–5 years of age (4 by September 10th) and potty trained.
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
12 PM — 3 PM
Monthly Tuition: $300
There is a yearly registration fee of $80 for both the afternoon and morning session classes. Please note that the tuition includes all supplies and consumables. Scholarships are available.
Get Started
Take the next step at Apostles Preschool in Billings.
To begin the enrollment process, simply fill out our interest form below. Our preschool director will contact you to schedule a tour and interview. During your visit, you’ll receive a Request for Enrollment form and an information packet. To be considered for enrollment, return the completed form within one week. You’ll then be notified of your child’s enrollment status by the director.