Mission StatementOur mission is to inspire creativity while fostering social and emotional, physical, cognitive and language development of preschool aged children. Within a developmentally appropriate framework, our program strives to continuously provide an academically rich environment that prepares students for their kindergarten experience and meets the unique developmental needs of each student.
Early Childhood PhilosophyWe believe that each child is a unique individual and that all children can learn. Our preschool programs provide inclusive settings that recognize children's varied abilities, interests, needs, and learning styles.
We believe children learn best through meaningful play. Our play-based, child centered program reflects the integration of physical, cognitive, social, emotional, language, self-help and aesthetic areas for the total development of the child. Meaningful play encourages curiosity, discovery and problem solving which allows individual growth and development of a positive self-image.
We recognize that parents are the child's first teachers. Children learn best when parents are involved in their educational program. The primary bridge between home and school is the involvement of family and community.
Preschool CurriculumThe Ohio Early Learning and Development Standards establish a framework for instruction that meets the needs of young children. In developing our preschool curriculum we support the development of the whole child: spiritual, cognitive, social, emotional, and physical. Through the implementation of our curriculum we prepare each child to:
- Master and understand himself/herself
- Organize and recreate experiences and knowledge
- Relate to others
- Learn problem solving skills
- Learn to communicate
- Develop self-control
- Develop positive self-esteem
Ohio Early Learning and Development Standards
Every aspect of the preschool classroom’s day is designed to meet the these State standards:
- Daily routines
- Investigations/units of study that are designed intentionally from student interest as well as skill and concept development
- Learning centers where children may move about freely and at their own pace to practice skills, explore, and experiment
- Large and small group experiences including puzzles, games, finger plays, songs, stories, poems, circle time and discussions.
Flexible Scheduling
In a loving, Catholic, family environment, St. James Early Childhood Center serves children ages three to five. Morning classes begin at 9:00 a.m. with dismissal at 11:30 a.m. Afternoon classes begin at 12:30 p.m. with dismissal at 3:00 p.m. Preschool classes for three year olds are held on Tuesday and Thursday, while the four and five year old classes are on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Flexible scheduling allows parents to choose two, three, four or five sessions per week.
Enrollment Process
Parents are invited to make an appointment to tour the school, observe in the classroom, and ask questions about the pre-school and pre-kindergarten programs. Parents may call the school office for enrollment information. Registration papers will be given to the parent. The child will be enrolled when the registration papers are received in the school office.
Total Preschool Enrollment: 40