Our holistic Preschool and Pre-Kindergarten programs are led by a team of caring early-childhood educators who create a warm and nurturing environment. Within this environment, children have the opportunity to learn and grow emotionally, spiritually, intellectually, physically and socially. Our goal is to meet each child at their individual development stage and foster their potential, talents and love of learning. Children explore the world around them, enjoy role playing and engage in directed and independent activities. Social, emotional and academic development are stimulated, verbal skills are sharpened, imagination is tapped and learning is fun! In addition, we emphasize how God created each of us to be unique and special.
Requirements for Admission
The programs are for students who are three and four years old by August 31st and are fully toilet trained. A birth certificate, immunization form and current physical, and Baptismal certificate (if applicable) are required. Our programs are very popular and fill up quickly. Early registration is advised to secure space for your child as the enrollment is limited. Priority is given to students who have sibling enrolled in grades K-8 and those who intend to further their child’s education at Saint Joseph School.
3-Year-Olds: Two, Three, and Five Day Programs
4-Year-Olds: Five Day Program for 4 Year Old Children Preparing for Kindergarten
(Please Note: A limited number of 4 year-olds may be accepted into a three day program, but will be placed in the 3 year-old classroom.)
Program Overview
Readiness
An extensive readiness program, Little Treasures, emphasizes listening, phonemic awareness, critical thinking and problem solving. Science, Social Studies, Pre-Reading skills, Math and Religion are taught through thematic units and active play. The program includes arts and crafts, cooking projects, physical coordination activities, games and free play.
The Classroom
The classrooms are equipped with interactive Promethean boards, computers, printers, alphabet rugs, a large library of books, manipulatives, blocks, toys, kitchen areas, dress-up/creative play areas games, puzzles, art supplies, writing centers and other educational and creative materials. Our daily routine includes circle time, story time, learning centers, book and puzzle time, and hands-on lessons based on our monthly themes.
Library
During their once a week Library period, the children are able to explore various books and check them out to share at home.
Computers
Children participate in interactive lessons with the use of Promethean boards. Computer within the classrooms and in the school’s computer lab are utilized and internet access protected by a professional content filtering system. Children also have access to iPads.
Physical Education
During their Physical Education class, children exercise and build their body strength, as well as learn the rules of games, fair play, and good sportsmanship. Weather permitting, children enjoy the newly constructed town playground across the street from our school.
Buddy Classes
Students are assigned “Buddies” from the older grades with whom they will work on different projects and play games. It promotes team work, spirit of friendship, trust and responsibility.
Progress Reports & Teacher Conferences
A formal conference is scheduled in January. At that time, parents are presented with their child’s assessments and work samples. If needed, a conference with the teacher may be requested at any time. The second report card is given at the end of the school year.
Lunch
Hot lunch is offered every day in the school cafeteria. The cost of a hot lunch includes milk. Children may also bring their own lunch if preferred. Milk may be purchased separately. Lunches may be pre-ordered only up to a month in advance. We offer a Free and Reduced Lunch for qualifying students.
Snacks
Only nutritious snacks and drinks are allowed, therefore candy and soda are not permitted. Children bring a small snack and drink from home for the morning break each day.
Rest / Quiet Learning Time
Each day following lunch and recess, the children are encouraged to rest or play quietly for a short period of time.
Clothing
The uniform for Pre-K students is the school’s gym uniform. Please note: All clothing should be labeled.
