Mission Statement:

Our mission at St. James Preschool is to help each child discover and develop their unique gifts and talents. We will do this by providing a playful and nurturing early education experience which promotes each child's unique social/emotional, physical and cognitive development. We offer support to all families on their early childhood journey.

Philosophy Statement:

The philosophy of St. James Preschool is to instill in each child a confident desire to learn more about the world in which we live and provide children with a balanced routine to develop emotional, intellectual, physical and social skills through natural play in a loving environment. St. James Preschool does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, national origin, disability, or age in admission, treatment, or participation in its programs, services and activities.

Classrooms use a play-based philosophy with emphasis on one-on-one, small group and large group instruction that is age/ability appropriate. Centers will focus on colors, shapes, letter and number recognition as well as activities that stretch the mind, express feelings and encourage cognitive development. Social interaction will also be a focus as the children learn to relate to peers and adults. Children will be encouraged to verbally express needs and desires. Classes will have the opportunities for free play, music, art, science, early math and literacy concepts, stories, role-playing and more. The staff will promote Kindergarten readiness through pre-reading and math activities. Classes may be multi-age.

This schedule is what our school days typically look like.

All classes have a schedule that are similar but might change the order of activities.

8:30-8:50 Arrival & Welcome Activities
8:55-9:10 Hello Circle Time (Hello Song, Community Building, Large Group)
9:15-9:40 Small Group Work (Handwriting, Math, Literacy, Choice Time)
9:40-10:00 Hand washing, Songs, and Stories
10:05-10:20 Snack
10:25-10:55 Centers (Choice time & projects)
11:05-11:10 Closing Circle
11:15-11:40 Outdoor Play/Recess

"St. James Preschool has been an incredible 1st school experience for both of my children, one a current 4K student and one thriving in 1st grade right now. They both attended the 3K and 4K programs. The staff is very knowledgeable and caring. They appreciate each child's individuality and work hard to support a young learner's needs. I saw so much growth, not only academically, but in social-emotional skills as well. My kids looked forward to going to school each day and met some wonderful friends. They love their teachers! They were excited to share what they learned each day, and I think their time at St. James has helped develop their love for learning. I would recommend St. James to anyone looking for an amazing preschool experience for their child."     -Jeanne

"I cannot say enough great things about St. James Preschool! The staff are incredibly attentive and communicative, always keeping parents in the loop and truly caring about the needs of each child.

In our experience, the learning environment is fantastic- kids are able to grow and develop through a mix of play, singing, dancing, art, and just plain fun. It's clear to me that St. James focuses on well-rounded learning experiences that nature not just academic growth but also creativity and social development.

The staff is absolutely wonderful, and you can tell they genuinely love what they do. It's a place where children are not just cared for but thrive."     -Sarah

"It is bittersweet that our kids are growing up and moving beyond St. James. It has been a wonderful place for our two boys to learn, grow, and have a lot of fun. The teachers there really care. I love seeing the daily updates with the kids about things like learning about the shapes and sizes of buildings, making puppet shows, and controlling their emotions. And that was just in the last week. Ms. Heather brings it all together and has set the bar for what I think a great preschool can be."     -Erika