Crescent Avenue Weekday School began as a Nursery School program September 30, 1957 with 15 children enrolled. The school originated under the guidance of the Children’s Work Committee of the Board of Christian Education of Crescent Avenue Church. The name, Crescent Avenue Weekday School, reflects the committee’s commitment to provide experience for preschoolers within a Christian environment, not only on Sundays, but during the week, as well. Martha Hemphill was the first Director of the school and remained in the position until her death in 1973.

During the 1960's the Nursery School program consisted of 13 Nursery School classes. In the fall of 1971, the school expanded to include a kindergarten and child care program. These programs were in response to the need of child care being experienced by mothers seeking work outside the home. The child care center began with ten full and part-time children in one room.

As the community's need for full-time child care has continued to increase, so has the size of the child care center. Currently, the child care center is licensed by the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration, Division of Family and Children, and has a capacity for 135 children, ages two through twelve.

In June 1987, CAWS received accreditation for the first time by the National Association for the Education of young children. In April 1993, CAWS received recognition by the National Council of Recognition, a Division of Ecumenical Childcare Network.

The school is guided by the Weekday School Board. The board consists of church members, early childhood professionals, community leaders, parents and CAWS staff. The board reports to the Administrative Council of the Church. CAWS continues to be a viable part of the church’s ministry. The school reflects the church’s center focus, which is to be a community about caring and caring about community.