Finding the right kindergarten for your child is a critical decision. The foundation built during these early years can significantly impact your child’s future academic and personal growth. While Illinois offers many options, selecting the right one requires careful consideration of several factors, including curriculum, teacher-student ratio, extracurricular activities, and the overall environment. Among the notable options, St. Mary’s School stands out for its comprehensive approach to early childhood education.
Academic Excellence
One of the primary reasons to choose St. Mary’s School is its commitment to academic excellence. The school emphasizes a solid educational foundation, ensuring that students not only meet but exceed educational standards. The small class sizes, with a 12:1 student-teacher ratio, allow for personalized attention and a tailored educational experience for each child. This individualized approach helps address the unique learning needs of every student, fostering a love for learning and academic growth.
Comprehensive Curriculum
St. Mary’s School offers a diverse and robust curriculum that goes beyond the basics. Their CONNECTed curriculum is particularly noteworthy. Developed by the teachers at St. Mary’s, this curriculum includes subjects such as agriculture, cooking, STEM learning, progressive physical education, and typing/coding/computers. This wide range of subjects ensures that students receive a well-rounded education, preparing them for the challenges of the future. The emphasis on real-life applications of knowledge makes learning more engaging and relevant for young students.
Faith and Moral Development
For families seeking a faith-based education, St. Mary’s School provides an environment rooted in Catholic traditions. The school integrates liturgy, sacrament, and service into the daily life of students, helping them build a strong moral foundation. Through personal and communal prayer, traditional liturgies, and the celebration of the Mass, students learn the values of faith, integrity, and compassion. These experiences are designed to help students develop into responsible and ethical individuals.
Unique Learning Environments
The outdoor classroom at St. Mary’s School is a distinctive feature that enhances the learning experience. This space allows for hands-on learning, play, and prayer, providing students with opportunities to explore and engage with the natural world. The outdoor classroom supports various educational activities and helps students develop a deeper appreciation for the environment.
Extracurricular Activities
St. Mary’s School offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, ensuring that students have opportunities to explore their interests and talents. Programs include art and theater, athletics for boys and girls, band and music, chess club, and student council. These activities play a crucial role in the overall development of students, helping them build confidence, teamwork skills, and leadership abilities.
Community and Parental Involvement
Another advantage of St. Mary’s School is its strong sense of community and active parental involvement. The school fosters a close-knit environment where families come together to support their children’s education. This collaboration between staff, parents, and students creates a nurturing and supportive atmosphere, essential for the holistic development of young learners. The school’s mission to engage, challenge, and inspire students is reflected in the active participation of the entire community.
Assessment and Continuous Improvement
St. Mary’s School places a high value on continuous improvement and assessment. Kindergarten through eighth-grade students take NWEA/MAP assessments three times a year. These assessments provide valuable data on individual student progress, allowing teachers to adjust and improve the curriculum continuously. This commitment to academic excellence and continuous improvement ensures that students receive a high-quality education tailored to their needs.
Conclusion
Selecting the best kindergarten for your child involves considering various factors, from academic standards and curriculum to extracurricular activities and community involvement. St. Mary’s School in Illinois offers a comprehensive and well-rounded education, rooted in Catholic traditions and designed to foster individual excellence. With its personalized approach to teaching, diverse curriculum, and strong community support, St. Mary’s School is an excellent choice for families seeking the best possible start for their child’s educational journey.