Reading and Writing (Language Arts)
The kindergarten language arts curriculum is built on standards directed toward fostering students’ understanding and working knowledge of foundational reading and writing skills. Kindergartners will learn beginning reading skills relating to letter identification and the alphabetic principle, phonological awareness, phonics and word recognition, concepts of print, reading for meaning, exploring a variety of types of texts, and reading comprehension strategies. Kindergartners will also participate in daily writer’s workshops which will encourage students to write for pleasure, while also teaching students correct letter formation and basic conventions of the English writing system. Instruction in the kindergarten classroom will be differentiated and will strive to build upon each individual student’s strengths, learning styles and skill levels to ensure optimal student growth.
Mathematics
In Kindergarten a consciousness of numbers, number concepts, and number terms is built. An understanding of patterns, addition and subtraction, basic geometry and measurements is developed throughout the year. In addition, math skills are enhanced by a variety of hands-on experiences.
Science & Social Studies
Five and six year olds are very inquisitive. They like to look, smell, touch, and listen. Activities in kindergarten stimulate these senses. They find out what things are, why they are here, and how they operate. Students are taught about our world and the people in it in a manner which is appropriate for kindergartners. We strive to bring these subjects to life with use of engaging character teachers, such as “Dr. Science” who comes in full “mad scientist” costume to teach kids about science concepts through fun, hands-on experiments. Jesus Time Everyday begins with Jesus Time, a time to focus on God, who He is and what He has done through Jesus Christ. The Christian kindergarten helps develop an increasing love for and knowledge of God our Father and Jesus our Savior. Through stories, songs, and prayers, we strive to help your child lead a life pleasing to the Lord. In addition to classroom study, children also attend chapel services every Wednesday.
Social Skills
Proper school behavior, listening skills, following directions, and sharing are practiced daily along with other appropriate social skills essential for success in school and in life. Through play and practice your child learns to share responsibility, gain patience, and discover empathy.
Art
Lessons in art expression and appreciation are taught weekly by our highly skilled Art Coordinator. Kindergartners experiment with materials such as clay, crayons, paper, paste, and paint. Our art program teaches students about famous artists and inspires them to re-create famous works of art. These masterpieces are put on display at our annual art show at the end of the school year.
Music
Children have music class twice a week taught by our music teacher. Students learn basic music theory skills – notes, rests, and various musical terms. They also learn how to perform rhythm using instruments, read written music using student handbells, develop music appreciation by listening to several types of music appreciation by listening to several types of music and recognize music in their everyday lives.
Technology & Computer Education
St. Peter’s has a lab with 30 computers as well as iPads and computers throughout classrooms. Kindergarten visits the computer lab weekly and uses technology daily. We use technology during literacy centers and also in math stations daily. Through classroom work and free time students learn keyboard and mouse skills and technology concepts.