Peoria Catholic Elementary Schools

Peoria Catholic Elementary School

Enroll Your Child in a Transformative Peoria Catholic Elementary School

An elementary school gives your child the first taste of education. And sometimes, it is where your child will get their first experience in a social setting, around other people who are not family or close friends. Therefore, you want your child to have the best first experience at school. It all boils down to finding the right elementary school for your little one.

Luckily, Peoria offers a lot of elementary schools to start your child’s first education, both public and private. But you don’t want just any other elementary school—you want the best catholic school.

While there are other essential factors to consider when selecting an elementary school for your child, Catholic Elementary Schools have been a top choice for many parents.

So if you’re thinking of enrolling your child in a catholic elementary school, consider St. Mary’s School. We are committed to providing an exceptional catholic education rooted in catholic values. Visit us at 9910 W. Knox Street, Edwards, IL 61528, or contact us to learn more about our catholic elementary education.

Levels of elementary education at St. Mary’s School

Elementary education includes grades from pre-Kindergarten through Grade 8. The grade levels may vary slightly based on the school or educational system.

But generally, here is a breakdown of the levels of elementary education we offer at St. Mary’s School;

Pre-K 

This is the starting point of your child’s elementary education. It is your child’s first time to meet a preschool teacher, sit in class, learn, and interact with peers in your absence. 

Usually, Pre-K is for children aged between three and four years. 

Kindergarten

Your child is ready for kindergarten (Grade K) when they hit five or after they complete pre-K. However, the range is between 4 to 6 years. At this level, our primary focus is on developing social skills, basic literacy, and numeracy skills and fostering a love for learning through play-based activities.

First grade

After Kindergarten, your child is promoted to first Grade or Grade 1. This stage of elementary education builds upon the foundational skills acquired in kindergarten. It emphasizes reading, writing, and basic mathematical concepts.

Grade 2 to Grade 8

These levels of elementary education continue to build upon the knowledge and skills acquired in Grade K and Grade 1. Your child will develop writing skills, reading comprehension, and mathematical abilities throughout the levels.

Some schools will introduce subjects like science, social studies, and foreign languages. The curriculum becomes more structured, introducing students to a broader range of academic disciplines.

Grade 8 marks the end of elementary education for your child (although some elementary schools go beyond this level). Most students complete their elementary education between the ages of 12 to 13. After completing elementary education, your child is now ready to transition to high school.

Public or Private Elementary School?

One of the challenges parents face is choosing between a public and a private school in Peoria. And the distinction is not as straightforward as it used to be. While many parents go for public schools due to their affordability and easy access, parents who want the best for their children will often consider a private school.

But again, it’s all about choice.

A private elementary school offers numerous benefits that a public elementary school cannot match. This includes a happy environment where children can fulfill their greatest potential.

Here are some reasons to consider sending your child to a private catholic elementary school in Peoria.

More focus on your child

Most private schools try as much as possible to keep their class sizes small and sizable. This allows teachers to provide individualized attention to each student.

It also allows your child to build a solid relationship with their teacher. Moreover, small classes mean fewer distractions. Therefore your child will have a better focus while in class.

A diverse curriculum

Our children have different ways of learning. Some are good at reading and memorizing concepts, while others are excellent at hands-on learning.

Unfortunately, public schools tend to offer a single curriculum for all students. And definitely, a one-size-fits-all approach to education cannot work because every child has unique needs and abilities.

With a private school, at least most of them, your child won’t be forced to pursue a curriculum that doesn’t suit them. Instead, it allows students to focus on what they are good at. Some private schools offer a blended approach, while others specialize in unique curriculums.

Extensive extracurriculars

Students in elementary education need more extracurricular activities than in-class learning. This is because they have short attention spans. Therefore, it’s hard for a three or 5-year-old to remain seated in a class for over an hour.

Private schools offer balanced programs with equal parts in academics, sports, and extracurricular activities. And the quality of extracurricular opportunities in private elementary schools is unmatched. From art, sports, and music to foreign languages, private schools have all the resources to help your child succeed in their choice of activity.

Why choose a catholic elementary school?

Many private elementary schools in Peoria are religiously affiliated. This means they are funded by various religions, including Catholic.

However, all the elementary schools accept students regardless of their religious backgrounds. For instance, you can enroll your child in a Catholic-sponsored elementary school, even if you’re a non-catholic.  

But why should you register or transfer your child to a catholic elementary school like St. Mary’s School?

Excellent reputation

Most, if not all, catholic schools have a good name in society. This is why many parents register or transfer their kids to a Catholic-sponsored elementary school. According to statistics, approximately 36% of private school students are enrolled in Catholic schools.

Your child receives a holistic education

Catholic schools offer a holistic approach to education. They focus not only on your child’s academic excellence but also on their moral, spiritual, and social development.

At St. Mary’s, we strive to educate your whole child, nurturing their emotional, spiritual, and intellectual growth so they become future leaders.

Faith Formation

Catholic elementary schools offer a unique opportunity for your child to deepen their Catholic faith and spiritual journey. The schools allow students to develop a solid foundation in their faith and to grow in their relationship with God through religious instructions, participation in Mass and sacraments, and engagements with Catholic traditions.

Academic excellence

In addition to the spiritual and moral side, Catholic elementary schools are also committed to academic prosperity. These institutions offer rigorous educational programs designed to shape your child’s future. The schools have dedicated and qualified teachers and a supportive environment to ensure your child gains the knowledge required to succeed academically.