Woman playing with baby

Education for Life

An education rooted in faith and the Benedictine values starts at the beginning of life. At the University of Mary’s Butler Center for Early Learning, we know that the development that occurs in a child’s early years are crucial for cultivating their spiritual, cognitive, and social growth.

Our licensed childcare center and preschool are projected to open on June 1, 2025.

Our Focus

  • Embracing Childhood: Children journey through each stage of their development at their own pace. We provide the sensory-rich experiences children need to flourish. Through partnerships with the University of Mary's Saint Gianna School of Health Sciences and the Liffrig Family School of Education and Behavioral Sciences, we will offer onsite screening, referral, and intervention services to provide a uniquely holistic approach to early childhood education. 
  • Embracing Curiosity: The Butler Center for Early Learning will allow children freedom for exploration and discovery. Our curriculum includes practical life activities, sensory experiences, math, language, literacy, art, music, and physical education.
  • Embracing Faith: Central to our purpose is the cultivation of a personal friendship with Jesus and a deep love of learning inspired by an awe for God's Creation.

Schedules for Busy Parents

It can be hard to coordinate childcare plans, but not with us. We’ll have availability from 7:30 am - 5:30 pm, Monday-Friday, with planned exceptions for holidays.

Costs Designed for You

Monthly tuition varies based on the age of your child:

  • Ages 0-36 Months: $1,050 per month
  • Ages 36-60 Months: $950 per month
  • A morning preschool tuition rate is also available for $475 per month.

The following additional fees also apply:

  • Registration and Supply Fee: $150 per year
  • Lunch: $4 per day (Parents may also pack a lunch.)

The Butler Center for Early Learning will also participate in the N.D. Child Care Assistance Program, which helps income-eligible families pay for childcare while parents are working or in school. Contact us to see if this is an option for you.

Qualified Staff

The children in our care will receive the attention they need from our certified teachers and caregivers. In addition, students and faculty from the University of Mary’s education, behavioral sciences, and health sciences programs will provide support for your child’s individual needs. 

Centrally Located Facility

The Butler Center for Early Learning is located in downtown Bismarck on South 7th Street, between East Main Avenue and East Bismarck Expressway, near Kirkwood Mall.

Your Family Deserves Early Learning Excellence