Early Education (EL 3 – First Grade)
Jesus said, “Let the children come to me, and do not prevent them; for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” ~ Matthew 19:14
Early learning lays the groundwork for a child’s growth and future success. A child’s first school experience is a wonderful adventure, full of new discoveries and opportunities to build confidence. Saint Mary’s Early Education program nurtures this important stage with care and purpose, guided by the Diocese Consensus Curriculum of the Catholic Diocese of Richmond.
Early Learners – 3-Year-Olds (EL-3)
Our EL-3 program blends Montessori and traditional methods, allowing children to learn at their own pace while exploring the world through all their senses. The curriculum supports growth in academics, faith, and social skills through daily core subjects as well as enrichment classes in Art, Music, Library, Physical Education and Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. Weekly chapel visits and special events like the Christmas Program foster both community and faith development.
Junior Kindergarten – 4-Year-Olds (JK-4)
The JK-4 program provides a structured environment that prepares students for Kindergarten and beyond. With a focus on reading readiness, number sense, and social-emotional growth, students participate in daily core subjects, as well as enrichment classes in Art, Music, Physical Education, and Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. Weekly themes connect learning across subjects, while chapel visits and school events deepen their faith and sense of community.
Kindergarten
Kindergarten builds a strong foundation in Religion, Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies, supported by enrichment in Art, Music, Spanish, Physical Education, Technology, Library and Catechesis of the Good Shepheard. Using the Superkids Reading Program and Guided Math, students develop essential literacy and numeracy skills. Weekly Mass, virtues education, and chapel visits foster spiritual growth, while hands-on science, social studies projects, and use of the outdoor classroom spark curiosity and exploration.
First Grade
First Grade continues to expand core skills in Religion, Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies, with enrichment in Art, Music, Spanish, Physical Education, and Library/Technology. The Superkids Reading Program and Guided Math ensure a solid academic foundation, while marine science, outdoor learning, and faith-based instruction encourage both intellectual curiosity and spiritual development. Weekly Mass, virtues education, and chapel visits keep Christ at the center of learning.
Meet the Faculty