Nurturing Young Minds: St. Mary’s Pre-K near Peoria
At St. Mary’s School near Peoria, we’re proud to offer a Pre-K program tailored to nurture the academic and holistic development of our students. Our unique curriculum emphasizes individual attention with a 12:1 student-teacher ratio and integrates faith to promote critical thinking and compassion. Our young learners thrive in a balanced environment of structured and free play, combined with hands-on learning in our outdoor classrooms. We ensure a foundation in moral and spiritual growth, complemented by our community projects. To discover how we can partner in your child’s early education, consider exploring more about our approach and community.
Our Unique Curriculum Approach
At St. Mary’s, we’ve tailored our curriculum to foster not only academic excellence but also holistic development through hands-on learning and creative expression. We believe each child’s education should be as unique as they are, which is why individualized attention is at the heart of our teaching approach. Our small class sizes ensure that every student receives the personal guidance they need to thrive.
Faith integration is key in our educational framework, shaping young minds to think critically and live compassionately. Through our CONNECTed curriculum, students engage in real-world problems and projects that enhance their learning while embedding valuable moral lessons.
Community involvement is also a cornerstone of our curriculum. We’re committed to nurturing not just learners, but also future leaders who are actively involved in bettering their surroundings. This includes everything from local service projects to integrating community resources into our learning modules.
Our unique approach ensures that every student not only excels academically but grows into a well-rounded individual, armed with the skills and ethics to navigate and contribute to the world around them. We’re not just teaching students; we’re preparing them for life.
Key Benefits for Early Learners
We understand that the foundation of a child’s educational journey begins in their early years, which is why St. Mary’s School focuses intently on providing key benefits tailored for early learners. At the heart of our Pre-K program is the commitment to individualized attention. With a 12:1 student-teacher ratio, each child receives the personalized support they need to thrive both academically and personally.
Hands-on learning is another pillar of our approach. Utilizing our outdoor classroom and the CONNECTed curriculum, children engage with the natural world and real-life scenarios that enhance their intellectual and physical growth. This method not only makes learning enjoyable but also deeply impactful.
Social development is fostered through structured and free play, encouraging children to build relationships and develop empathy. This is complemented by our faith integration, where we weave moral and spiritual growth into daily activities, helping each child to develop a sense of purpose and community.
Moreover, we actively encourage family involvement. We believe that education is a partnership between the school and home, strengthening the bond and reinforcing the learning environment. Together, we create a supportive framework that nurtures early learners into confident, curious, and caring individuals

Daily Schedule and Activities
Building on our commitment to a supportive and enriching environment, our daily schedule and activities are thoughtfully designed to nurture every aspect of a child’s development. We’ve crafted each day to balance structured learning with ample opportunities for student creativity and hands-on learning.
Our mornings kick off with circle time, an integral part of our day where we integrate faith through stories and songs, setting a positive tone. Following this, our outdoor classroom plays a pivotal role. Here, kids engage with nature, explore their curiosities, and learn through physical activity, which is vital for their motor skills development.
Post-lunch, we dedicate time to art and music, encouraging children to express themselves creatively while subtly reinforcing academic concepts. These activities not only foster artistic skills but also enhance cognitive abilities.
We also prioritize community involvement; our little ones participate in local service projects, instilling a sense of responsibility and connection to their community. This hands-on approach extends beyond the classroom walls, making learning lively and meaningful.
Enrollment Process Explained
Understanding the enrollment process at St. Mary’s School is crucial for ensuring a smooth transition for your child into our nurturing educational environment. We’re here to guide you through each step, ensuring you understand all the requirements and timelines.
Firstly, prospective families should be aware of our application deadlines, which are pivotal for planning your enrollment process. Missing these dates can delay your child’s entry, so we always recommend early submissions. We offer school tours that allow you and your child to experience our vibrant community firsthand, see our facilities, and meet some of our dedicated educators.
Enrollment requirements include completion of an application form, submission of previous school records, and health documentation as per state regulations. We encourage parent involvement from the start because it significantly enhances the educational experience and eases student integration.
For families needing financial support, we provide tuition assistance. It’s important to apply early for assistance, as funds are limited and distributed based on assessed needs. Our goal is to make St. Mary’s accessible to all passionate learners, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder a child’s educational journey with us.
Meet Our Dedicated Staff
Although you may have learned about our programs and facilities, it’s our passionate educators who truly define the experience at St. Mary’s School. Each teacher holds advanced qualifications and is continuously involved in professional development to enhance their expertise. This commitment ensures that our classroom environments are innovative and supportive, enabling each child to thrive academically and socially.
Our staff training programs are rigorous and tailored, focusing on the latest educational strategies and technologies. We believe in nurturing our educators as much as our students, which is why we’ve established comprehensive mentoring programs. These initiatives not only foster skill enhancement but also encourage a culture of mutual support and knowledge sharing among our staff.
Community involvement is another cornerstone of our teaching philosophy. Our educators lead by example, actively participating in local events and projects, which helps knit a tight community fabric, enriching our students’ learning experiences outside the traditional classroom setting.
At St. Mary’s, we’re more than just a school; we’re a community of learners, educators, and leaders dedicated to creating an environment where everyone can excel. Join us to witness firsthand the dedication and passion that set our staff apart.
Building a Strong Community of Learners: St. Mary’s Pre-K
At St. Mary’s, we understand the importance of a holistic education. Our unique programs ensure each child not only excels academically but grows morally and spiritually within our supportive community. By choosing us, you’re not just enrolling your child in a school; you’re joining a family committed to nurturing their potential. Let’s embark on this educational journey together, fostering a bright future for every student. Join our St. Mary’s family today and witness your child’s transformation.