Early Childhood

An early childhood education is essential for the growth and development of all children. It builds a strong and critical foundation for lifelong learning, social development and a future of educational and relational successes. Early childhood education generally begins in preschool and encompasses a student’s academic experience through kindergarten. At St. Gabriel’s Catholic School, our early childhood program begins with Pre-K 3 students, and is an integrated approach to learning, anchored by a deep understanding of child development and social emotional learning (SEL). Our teachers understand the importance of recognizing the ages and stages of development and respond by preparing a learning environment that is engaging, tactile, and fun. Our team of experts incorporates opportunities for gross and fine motor development into classroom activities. At the same time, our teachers create opportunities that ignite a child’s curiosity and cultivate an early love for learning.
 

At St. Gabriel’s, we understand that SEL is fundamental to a child's social, emotional and ethical development; citizenship; motivation to achieve; success and happiness. Understanding emotions and thoughts, and how they influence behavior, sets the stage for our engaging learning environment. We help our students develop the skills they need to take ownership of their behavior and become valuable members of their class and school community. All of our decisions, both curricular and non-curricular, are made through the lens of our Catholic identity as it flows through SEL practice.

Our students learn throughout the day in a variety of environments both in and out of the classroom. Whether tending their crops in the garden, exploring wildlife on the nature trail, or practicing coding skills in the d. Lab, our youngest Sabers have authentic opportunities to think, make, do and solve. Additionally, all of our students engage in meaningful service learning partnerships to increase their empathy and to build a strong moral foundation of confidence and courage.

Extended-day is a full-day option available at an additional cost for Pre-Kindergarten. Children enrolled in Extended-day from three to five days per week will receive additional preschool academic enrichment from their Pre-K teachers until 3:30 p.m.

After 3:30 p.m., extended-day students will join the Saber Kids, which is a multi-grade after-care program that includes outdoor play, arts and crafts, games, and snack time for our Pre-K-Fourth Grade students.

Extended-day is open for enrollment at any point during the school year.