St. Mary's School Early Childhood Program Philosophy of Education St. Mary's School, a Catholic Education Community, is an integral part of St. Mary Parish Community embracing the values and traditions of the Catholic Faith. St. Mary’s Early Childhood Program strives to nurture young children in Christian love and to foster an awareness of being a child of God. We work to create a happy and positive environment for each child to explore and experience their surroundings in order to achieve a positive self-concept. We believe that the teachers, in partnership with the parents, who are the primary educators, recognize the uniqueness of each child. We seek to provide an atmosphere where students develop a wholesome self-image so that they may reach their full potential. Goals of Education Help children realize the special people they are through participation in activities centered on love for God and others. Develop self-expression through language skills. Develop math concepts based on experiences. Develop social skills through group interaction with emphasis on thoughtful, courteous behavior. Develop fine and gross motor skills. Develop independent problem solving skills. Our Typical Day Morning Circle which may include the following: * Morning Greeting * Morning Prayer * Days of the Week * Selection of Classroom Helper Play Time Snack Time * Classroom helper handing out napkins * Prayer * Sharing a snack * Clean-up Story Time * Quiet reading until everyone is done with snack End of Day Options (selected on a rotating basis): * Gym Time (Gross Motor Skills) * Music Time * Special projects (Fine Motor Skills)