Saint Hilary School

As part of our two-year Kindergarten program we offer a Transitional Kindergarten classroom also known as Junior Kindergarten.  One teacher and a full time aide lead our 16 youngest students in their Junior Kindergarten year. Aged five by December 1, these youngsters experience social and academic growth as part of a loving and gentle community.  The Junior Kindergarten curriculum mimics that of Kindergarten but with more transition time between tasks as well as a more flexible daily schedule.  Sometimes referred to as “the gift of a year”, Junior Kindergarten offers many opportunities to be challenged on a daily basis through Language Arts, math, Art and play time and exposure to Spanish, Computers and Music.

Kindergarten

Students five years old by September 1 may enter Kindergarten. Guided by two teachers and a full time aide, our Kindergarteners thrive in a hands-on curriculum that focuses on individual development. Stories, poetry, songs and class discussions are a part of a Language Arts Curriculum that includes the introduction to writing centers, letter books, dictation, and journal writing.

Small group instruction ensures successful development of math skills: numeration, patterns and functions, time, money, and measurement. Science is explored through field trips and class projects, including growing vegetables in Saint Hilary’s Secret Garden. Kindergarteners begin Spanish classes, are introduced to computers, and participate in a strong physical education program. Children study rudimentary music with a focus on rhythm and movement, and participate in school concerts and assemblies. This early exposure to performing in front of a supportive school-wide audience is an introduction to the public speaking core curriculum encouraging poise and self-confidence.