Our Philosophy
Our St. Francis School kindergarten program nurtures the Catholic values instilled at home. Students learn about God’s love through daily religion lessons and classroom experiences. Parents and teachers work collaboratively to build a partnership between home and school.
Kindergarten students increase their knowledge of the world through a balance of academic and social programs. We help each child grow by teaching listening skills, self-control, and cooperation with others.
A strong core academic curriculum is offered in our kindergarten program. In addition to the core curriculum, a wide range of activities is offered to help children learn both formally and informally. Additionally, our program targets early, developmental elementary skills:
- Respect for others
- Following directions and rules
- Working independently in large and small groups
- Taking turns and sharing
- Caring for self
Kindergarten Curriculum
Religion
Sophia Press text is used in the kindergarten religion program. Kindergarten students attend Mass weekly. Children are taught that they are unique and God has given them special gifts and talents.
Language Arts
The comprehensive, researched-based program, CR Success Learning (formerly known as F.A.S.T. Early Literacy Program) addresses all five areas of reading as well as spelling and handwriting. The teacher works with guided reading groups based on students’ abilities, interests and needs, while incorporating Daily 5.
Mathematics
Using Sadlier Math, a wide variety of skills are reinforced and extended with centers, hands-on activities, whole and small-group lessons, and manipulatives. Differentiated instruction is used to meet the needs of all students.
Science
Life science, physical science, earth science, and the human body are studied. Students also conduct simple experiments in the classroom and the science lab using STEM.
Social Studies
Students study families, school life, communities, careers, geography, and U.S. history.
Enrichment
Spanish
In Spanish class, students are introduced to numbers (1-10), colors and basic greetings. Through short stories, students are able to recognize words that describe the day and night. They also learn whole songs in Spanish and are introduced to shapes and vocabulary words through group play. Students are also able to recognize and respond to classroom guidelines. Finally, students learn about the Hispanic culture and Catholic faith with short prayers, songs and traditions.
Specials
Classes in music, physical education, art, and library are included each week. Play is also important; centers encourage creativity, self-expression, discovery play, and they reinforce what is taught in the core academic areas.
Recess/Lunch
Every day, Kindergartners enjoy 25 minutes of outdoor recess time followed by a 25 minute lunch period. Recess and lunch are supervised by parent helpers. Teacher supervised recess in the morning.