The most significant academic focus in kindergarten is reading readiness. Strong reading and comprehension skills are critical to all subject areas in all grades, so kindergarteners participate in several activities and lessons that prepare them for reading. Reading readiness is an essential part of the kindergarten experience and one that should be taken seriously by both student and parents. A significant aspect of reading readiness is learning sound/symbol associations. All letters are taught by the end of the second month of school. Students begin with a brief introduction of each letter and then move on to letter sounds and proper formation. By the end of kindergarten, most students will be reading.

The development of fine motor skills in preparation for first grade is also an important part of kindergarten. Students have many opportunities to use pencils, crayons, and scissors and practice regularly how to properly use them.

Kindergartners have the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of activities designed to help them make the adjustment to the school environment and learn how to work in a group. It is important that children learn to function well in the classroom environment. This includes getting along with other children and cooperating with adults other than their own parents. Kindergartners learn to take turns and wait without interrupting. They also work diligently to develop their listening skills.

Our moral focus program also begins in Kindergarten. Students are introduced to monthly virtues and keywords through the use of stories and role-playing, as well as teaching by example. Kindergarteners also attend specials classes once a week, furthering a well-rounded education experience. These include Art, Music, Physical Education and Library and allow them the opportunity to enjoy singing, dancing, drawing, painting, and structured physical activity. All special classes are taught by certified teachers who are experts in their field.

Assessments

Kindergarten teachers consistently monitor each child’s progress during the year through both classroom observation and periodic grade appropriate testing. Teachers give one-on-one assessments on a regular basis and are also attentive to the daily work each child completes in the classroom. The information gained through these assessments is used to meet the needs of each individual child. This progress is also documented on the student’s progressive report card.