WELCOME TO OUR SCHOOL FAMILY

We welcome you and your child to our program. The following is information you will find helpful.

PHILOSOPHY

A child’s education is a journey. On their journey, they travel at a different pace according to their individual development. Our goal is to gently assist the development of the whole child: spiritually, physically, emotionally and intellectually, by providing a loving and nurturing environment that reflects our Catholic beliefs, values and attitudes. We strive to guide your child’s growth in language, imagination, social awareness, creativity, self-esteem and self-reliance.

CURRICULUM

The children will learn through an array of fun experiences and play. Special attention is paid to fostering independence, confidence, cooperation and compassion. Developing social skills, being a good friend and having positive feelings about learning and school is an important part of our class. Kindergarten readiness will be developed through many interesting and motivating activities.

OUR DAYS WILL INCLUDE:

Circle Time
Artistic Expression
Fine & Gross Motor Development
Story Time
Music
Language Arts
Math
Social Studies
Science
Field Trips
Knowledge of our Faith
And Traditions
Snack
Interaction with our upper-class buddies
Silliness & Fun

FIELD TRIPS

We will be taking the children on Field Trips and we encourage parent/grandparent participation. Your child’s experience and fun is greatly enhanced by sharing and discussions with you. There may be additional fees for adults. You will also need to sign a permission slip before your child is allowed to go on the field trip.
CALENDAR

We will follow the St. John the Baptist School calendar. A copy is included in this packet of information. SJB is part of Palisades school district and follows emergency closings and delays according to that district. In the event of delays, we will follow a modified schedule. A one hour delay will mean that morning preschool will begin at 9:30am and end at 11:30am. Afternoon preschool will begin at 12:30pm and end at 3:00pm. A two hour delay will mean NO morning program. The afternoon program will begin at 12:30pm and end at 3:00pm. When there is an unexpected early dismissal, The school will call parents to pick up children.

Please be sure phone and cell numbers are up to date and someone is always available to pick up your child. Preschool calendars will come home each month with listings of parent helpers, birthdays and special events.

COMING & GOING

School opens at 8:55AM and 12:25PM. Please do not come earlier as we use this time to prepare for the incoming class. At dismissal, 11:30AM or 3:00PM, please line up along the back driveway and your child will be sent individually to their car. There is no need to park. Please drive very carefully around the building. The speed limit is a SLOW 5 MPH. A pick-up permission form must be completed for your child’s safety. Any changes must be given to the school in writing.

CLOTHING

Your child’s preschool journey can often be a messy one. Save all your good outfits for the days they are at home. Older play cloths are perfectly acceptable and appropriate. Sneakers or other running shoes are a must. Also, their clothing should promote a feeling of independence. Buttons, zippers, belts, tights and bib overalls, although they work well at home, often cause frustration here at school. Good, old elastic waist pants work best! Please label all your children’s removable clothing. We will try to go outside most days, so please dress for the weather.

COMMUNICATION

Parent conferences will be scheduled during the school year. We will always be happy to meet with you at any time to discuss any concerns or questions you might have. Communication is an essential ingredient for a great year. Each child will receive a folder. Please check it each day for school information. If possible, please purchase a backpack for your child. There will always be lots of things coming home.

OUR SCHOOL FAMILY

As a part of St. John the Baptist School we will join in many of the school activities. Information concerning Book Fairs, assemblies, Catholic Schools Week and various events and interactions with children in other classes will come home in the communication folders. SJB has a Home and School Association which meets throughout the school year. Everyone is invited to attend.

PARENT HELPER

We welcome and appreciate our parent/grandparent helpers. Our helpers take an active roll in the classroom. Reading to the children, playing inside and out, providing healthy snack and beverage and clean-up are just some of the things you will do that day. It will be your child’s special day too. Birthdays will be celebrated in the classroom. Summer birthdays will be celebrated in the spring. You will be scheduled as a Parent Helper that day. A special treat, prepared by you and your child, will always be welcome. Monthly schedules will be sent home in the children’s folders. Let us know if a particular day each week is not convenient for you. Switching with other parents is fine, please let us know when you switch.