Episcopal schools are created as models of God's love and grace. They are created to serve God in Christ in all persons, regardless of origin, background, ability or religion and to be communities that honor, celebrate and worship God as the center of life.

Saint Thomas Early Learning Center opened its doors in 1964. At that time, it comprised one kindergarten class and one teacher. The Rev. William Oxley, Rector of St. Thomas Church, noticed the lack of publicly funded kindergarten and perceived a need for a developmentally appropriate kindergarten. Over the years, pre-kindergarten (4K) and beginners classes (3K) were added, and in 1990, first grade was also added. In 1989, Valerie Woodcock became Head of School and the Rev. Ben Aurand became Rector at Saint Thomas and Chaplain to the school, also serving as Chair of the STELC Board.

In the fall of 2001, Laura Calvin became the third Head of School of STELC. The Rev. William Fowler joined the school as school Chaplain and Rector of St. Thomas Episcopal Church in the fall of 2005. Lisa Hines became Chaplain and Rector in 2008. The Rev. Rhoda Montgomery assumed leadership of the church in 2010. Mary Skow directed the school from 2010 to 2012. During this time the school returned to its early learning roots, ending its first grade program. Beth Lawrence became Head of School in 2012. The Rev. Angela Cortiñas served as rector of St. Thomas Church in August of 2017 to February 2021. The Rev. Korey Wright became rector of St. Thomas Episcopal Church in January 2022. The school enrolls approximately 125 children each year.