Tiered Approach makes St. Catherine's Pre-School Stand Out

TIERED APPROACH MAKES ST CATHERINE OF SIENA PRE- SCHOOL STAND OUT

“I want to do things the right way with my child, and beginning here in pre-school, with the added benefit of a Catholic school environment, is starting things off just right!” This is one of the many comments parents make when choosing Saint Catherine of Siena School for their pre-school age child. This Catholic elementary school, located in Norwood began its full-day pre-school program in 2014 with one classroom and now boasts four, including a class for 2.9 year olds.

At Saint Catherine of Siena School, children not only get a good education, but they also develop their faith, and learn and understand the value of respect, love, forgiveness, service, and compassion at a very young age. Pre-school at Saint Catherine School is unique because it offers a tiered approach with instruction geared to each child’s individual development regardless of chronological age. All children learn to standards based on guidelines from the state Department of Early Childhood Education. Teachers, who have the unique privilege of being able to educate the whole child – academically and spiritually - have Bachelor’s, Masters degrees and state certification. Each class has an aide and is limited to 12 students to insure children get extra attention.

Research has long documented the fact that children who attend pre-school are more likely to succeed in kindergarten and that participation in early childhood education provides academic and social benefits that last well beyond the early years. At Saint Catherine of Siena School, the pre-school classes are not just add-ons, but an integral part of the school community. These younger students have the opportunity of a “big school experience” with all of the advantages it offers including weekly periods in Music, Art, Gym, and 2 languages - Spanish and Chinese - to complement their academic activities. Parents have the added convenience of a Before and After-School program onsite.

Teacher Diane Moore, who joined St. Catherine School faculty in September and is the parent of twin boys in the Pre-K program said, “I see dedicated and talented teachers who engage children in their learning and make it fun! Teachers are warm and nurturing, and classrooms are bright and cheerful. As a parent, I love that the school enhances the values we teach at home. Children learn to follow Jesus and show kindness and love for others. They learn about virtues through studying the lives of the Saints. Beginning each morning and ending each day with prayer, children learn to love God and each other. My boys are excited to show me their projects and explain their activities each day. They love the school and talk about their teachers with enthusiasm and affection. The School Principal’s involvement is another important and unique aspect of the school. Even though there are 382 students, Mrs. Russo knows each child’s name and is able to make a personal connection with each child.”

As an experienced Catholic School teacher, Mrs. Moore, applauds the fact that Saint Catherine School helps individual children achieve at their own pace. Children are carefully screened before they enter so their special talents and characteristics are known and recognized.

Saint Catherine of Siena School is a Pre-School through Grade 8 elementary school. There will be an Open House for prospective families for 2018-2019 on Sunday, January 28th from 12 noon - 1:00 p.m. and Wednesday, January 31st from 6:00 -7:00 p.m. Individual tours can also be arranged at any time during the day and school year by contacting Linda Canniff, Director of Admissions, at (781) 769-5354 ext. 262 or admissions@scsnorwood.org. Learn more about our school, including available financial aid options. You are invited to come in and see the school in action!