Early Childhood Program

The Primary Goal - The primary goal of the St. Joseph Early Childhood Program is to provide a safe, comforting atmosphere in which children can develop and grow according to their abilities. Our focus is on the development of the whole child. The physical, intellectual, emotional and spiritual aspects of each child are nurtured and guided by their teachers.

This goal is grounded in the school community's belief that, "All education is for life, a better quality life, and this goal is a lifetime process." The foundation of lifelong learning at St. Joseph begins with the developmentally appropriate curriculum of the Early Childhood Program which spans Pre-kindergarten through First Grade.

Instruction is based on the child-centered High Scope curriculum which has been in use for 20 years. This approach has been proven effective for creating a base of learning techniques which help children succeed in school.

Guidelines for the National Association for the Education of Young Children are also followed.

Philosophy - We believe that children are capable of becoming self-reliant problem solvers by experiencing situations which require them to exercise their power of creative thinking. Teachers structure the learning environment to excite children to create, discover, and explore. We believe in structuring the environment - not the child. Each child has many opportunities for making decisions and choices daily.

Progress Reports - Pre-kindergarten and Kindergarten Progress Reports are sent home twice during the school year in the months of January and May. First Grade Progress Reports are sent home every nine weeks.

Parent/Teacher Conferences - Parent/Teacher conferences are held at Progress Report time. Conference appointments are arranged by the teacher at the convenience of the parents. Parents are encouraged to schedule conferences any time during the year, if there is a need.

Discipline Policy - Discipline in an early childhood program should have a positive focus. Behavior expectations are age appropriate. They are consistently reinforced to help children remember them. Children are invited to think about the consequences of their actions. When it is necessary, children are placed in time-out. This is done in a positive manner.