Preschool

K3 AND K4

Overview

The St.  John Berchmans early childhood program emphasizes the social, academic, spiritual, and physical development of our little ones. Our K3 and K4 classes are taught by certified teachers. Both classes have a full-time teacher’s aide with a 10:1 ratio. Students attend school Monday-Friday at 7:45 am with pick-up between 2:35 and 3:20. SJB has an extended daycare program with early drop beginning at 6:20 am and pick up until 5:30 p.m. Pre-schoolers have the option of a hot lunch or sack lunch. Naptime is approximately 1:00-2:15 with a snack immediately following.

Curriculum

The preschool curriculum includes activities in STEM: science, technology, engineering, and math, along with language and early literacy. A typical preschool day is engaging and interactive with independent learning stations, circle time, group play inside and outdoors, story time and group interaction.  Students’ development and sense of independence blossoms through the use of various centers: dramatic play, housekeeping, art, science, math, and language.

Each grade has special field trips they take each year that enhance their curriculum. K3 uses McGraw-Hill Little Treasures as the curriculum guide. The K4 program is the Scott Foresman OWL (Opening the World of Learning), a rich literary program that integrates math, science, and social studies.

Enrichment & Community

Preschoolers have the opportunity for enrichments such as weekly music class, library, and PE. Preschoolers learn prayers, bible stories, and about the lives of saints.  Students learn by routine and look forward to the next day.  Our preschool students are a part of the greater school community. They learn through observation of the older students as well as through meaningful relationships they develop within the school community.  Students begin each morning attending morning assembly with the entire school beginning at 7:45 where they participate in the morning prayer, Pledge of Allegiance, recitation of the Mission Statement, and morning announcements.  The older students will also mentor our preschoolers through class lessons or presentations.  Preschoolers attend weekly Mass with the school and are assisted by our elementary and middle school students.