St. Thomas More Preschool is a safe, loving, and nurturing preschool for children two, three, four, and five years old. In addition to placing a strong emphasis on emergent literacy and numeracy, our curriculum includes music and movement, art, field trips, parent conferences, and outdoor activities. These embedded academics are all incorporated into our activities and playtime! Our curriculum is age, individually, and developmentally appropriate within an atmosphere of love and encouragement. We embrace all religions and cultures; all children are welcome.

 

Our Philosophy & Vision

We believe that all children should have a safe, loving, nurturing environment where they will learn at their own developmental levels.

We are dedicated to the ideal that each child is unique, and through our encouragement, will grow socially, emotionally, physically and intellectually. As role models to the children, the teachers reinforce the positive goals, values, and attitudes of the home. In addition to a strong emphasis on emergent literacy and numeracy, our curriculum includes music, art, gym, field trips, parent conferences, and outdoor play. these embedded academics are all incorporated into our PLAY! The preschool years are a time for exploring our world and ourselves, fostering creativity and wonder, and developing a strong love and desire for learning.

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Preschool Programs 

2-Year-Old Program
Each child is nurtured in a loving environment that provides opportunities for socialization, sharing, fine and gross motor skill development, while encouraging emergent foundational communication skills. Art, music, story time and outdoor play are incorporated into the learning experience. This program is a two hour class offered one and two days a week. Please see program class schedule and pricing insert for more information.

3-Year-Old, 4-Year-Old, and Pre-K Programs
Teachers developed curriculum to provide developmentally appropriate learning experiences for each child to build friendship skills, develop problem-solving and creative thinking, and strengthen self regulation and attention span. Each child experiences hands-on learning through play focusing on the following developmental domains: social-emotional, physical, language and literacy, math, science, social studies, and creative development. We offer a variety of half and full day class options.

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Age Requirements​

• 2-Year-Old Program: Children two years of age by September 1 are eligible for enrollment. Toilet training is not required.

• 3-Year-Old Program: Children three years of age by October 15 and toilet trained, are eligible for enrollment.

• 4-Year-Old Program: Children four years of age by October 15or those who have attended a 3-Year-Old program are eligible
  for enrollment.

• Pre-K Program: Children who have previous nursery school experience and have a teacher recommendation are eligible
  for enrollment. It is important for all full day students to be completely independent with regard to toileting practices.
  You will be asked to provide a contact person to return to school in case of a toileting accident.

 

​Screening Process 

​A questionnaire with pertinent information about your family and your child will be completed with the registration form via Sapphire.

A short screening will take place to observe specific behaviors, motor skills, etc. When all necessary paperwork is submitted, registration fee is paid, and the screening process is completed, you will receive notification of acceptance into the program.

 

How to Apply — The Registration Process

2-Year-Old Program Fee: $35.00
3, 4, and Pre-K Programs’ Fee: $100.00
Extended Care Fee: $10.00

(The application fee must be submitted when the application form is completed online. All application fees are non-refundable.)

 

Current Students:
Children currently attending St. Thomas More Preschool may register at conferences. 

 

New  Students:
Registration for new students will begin in person in the spring at the Preschool Open House. You and your child will have an opportunity to tour classrooms and meet with teachers to discuss placement for your child. At this time, we will discuss the age-appropriate classroom options. To secure your child’s registration, the following items will need to be received:
•    Completed registration form
•    Registration fee

We also require a completed Child Health Assessment from your doctor and on immunization record prior to the first day of school.

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Tuition Policy 

All payments will be made via STS. Each family will need to create an account when your child is accepted into the program. You will receive the informational steps on how to complete that process via Sapphire. Your total tuition will need to be received within a 10 month period. You will have the option to pay monthly or in full via STS. The first payment will begin in August and the last payment will be received in May. No credit is given for absence or prolonged vacation during the year or for conditions beyond our control, such as a power failure, snow or ice storm, or other inclement weather. Should it be necessary to withdraw your child from the program, notice must be given to the school at least 30 days prior to your child’s last day of classes. Tuition is due for this 30 day period.

 

Extended Care Program

The Before Care program begins at 6:30am and the After Care program ends at 5:30pm. Please indicate on the registration form what days/times your child will need Extended Care. Extended Care is available to students enrolled in our 3, 4, and Pre-K Programs. Parents may use extended care as needed.

Cost: $6.50 per hour/per child billed to the quarter hour. Payments are due biweekly.

Details such as beginning and ending dates, specific class schedule, etc. will be provided at the Orientation. Each family will receive a
St. Thomas More Preschool Handbook via Sapphire.

 

Hot Lunch Program
(Full Day Programs) Your child will have the opportunity to purchase a hot lunch each day. The monthly lunch calendar will be
available on Sapphire. Lunches will be delivered to the classroom at their designated lunch time. 

 

Preschool FAQs

Does the STM Preschool Program incorporate faith into the curriculum?

Teachers provide a faith-based environment where they model respect, kindness and empathy for themselves and others.

We show gratitude through prayer for special gifts we receive throughout the year. We welcome children of all faiths.

Our students have opportunities to work with older students on activities and special events during the school year.

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What kind of technology is used to enhance the learning experience?

Our Preschool Program provides an introduction into technology through the use of iPads in our full day PreK Program. Each classroom includes a projector board and Apple TV to assist the teacher in sharing videos, songs, pictures and more to support the topic theme for the week. The Flexible Learning Room is available to supplement classroom learning and play. Included in this room is the Play Smart Table and the Teach Smart Display allowing for participation in the learning program IGNITE.

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How will I know that my child is progressing in his/her learning?

Communication between the teacher and parent is essential. The teacher observes and documents your child’s skill abilities throughout the year. These skill assessments are shared with you and discussed at a scheduled conference. Teachers are available to discuss concerns after classroom hours.

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Special Events

•    Fire Safety Prevention Program presented by The Western Salisbury Fire Department

•    Pumpkin Patch Field Trip

•    Thanksgiving Celebration

•    4-Year-Old and Pre-K Christmas Program

•    Santa’s Workshop by STM 8th Grade

•    3-Year-Old Parent Sing-along and Family Fun Day

•    Spring Field Trips

•    End of Year Programs

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For more information, please contact Maggi Fink, Director of Advancement & Development at 610-432-0396.