Our goal in Pre-Kindergarten is to teach the whole child by providing a nurturing, secure environment in which learning can take place.  In the Pre-Kindergarten program, we seek to educate the mind, the heart, and the will. We recognize that each child is made in the image and likeness of God; so our teachers focus on giving personal attention to each child by using developmentally appropriate methods, and implementing high academic standards.  These early learning years are important; a time when good habits are developed and character formation begins.

Early character formation occurs through young students forming habits like self-control, generosity, and respect of others. Our Pre-Kindergarten programs provide structure, academic foundation, study of the Catholic faith, and leadership opportunities. Children learn to lead by example, and experience: a part in the Christmas program, apostle of the day, show and tell, line leaders, poetry recitation - are just a few of the many opportunities our young students are given to build self confidence. Strength lies in virtue as well as in academic performance.  At Pinecrest Academy, our students are taught the value of faith, virtue and service to others, as a compliment to a strong academic curriculum.

All of our classes are taught by qualified teachers. Each class has a lead teacher and a full-time assistant. Small class sizes of 15 students in Pre-Kindergarten enable teachers to provide personalized education for each child. A personal formation program is prepared for each child by the teachers with the assistance of parents. The personal formation program includes objectives for academic, spiritual, apostolic and character formation. In Pre-Kindergarten, students are assessed on basic skills.

The following information provides examples of a day in Pre-Kindergarten followed by an overview of the skills attained and mastered in our Pre-Kindergarten (3 and 4 year-old) programs. Finally, there is an overview of programs to help families experience Pinecrest Academy as a community.

Sample Half Day Pre-Kindergarten Schedule:

8:00 - 8:05     Morning Prayer

8:05 - 8:30     Circle Time

8:30 - 10:00    Students work in learning centers

10:00 - 10:30  Snack time

10:30 - 11:00  Outside Play

11:00 - 11:30  Spanish

11:30 - 11:50  Show and Tell

11:50 - 12:00  Announcements, dismissal

Each day begins with prayer. Students are then gathered into circle time to receive large group instruction through whole group interaction. Next, they move into small groups and work in learning centers either independently or with a teacher. Students are then given a snack and go outside to play.  Students receive Spanish instruction daily from a qualified Spanish teacher.  There is also an opportunity for show and tell.