Preschool: Building Skills for an Academic Life
MISSION STATEMENT
Saint Mel Catholic Preschool, rooted in the Mercy tradition of service to others, is dedicated to partnering with parents in nurturing the spiritual, physical, emotional, social, and academic growth of young children.
We strive to provide a safe, loving environment where children can grow in their understanding of God’s love and the beauty of His creation through meaningful interactions with caring adults and peers.
Our preschool honors the whole child by offering rich opportunities for exploration, creativity, and discovery. Together with our families, Saint Mel Preschool prepares children to share God’s love, grow in confidence, and become compassionate and capable members of their community.
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE AND EXPECTATIONS
Saint Mel Catholic Preschool is committed to offering a safe, stable, and joyful environment filled with love, friendship, curiosity, and security for children ages three through four years old.
Our staff members are thoughtfully chosen for their training in Early Childhood Development and for their ability to meet the individual needs of each child with sensitivity, professionalism, and genuine care. The preschool staff is accountable to the Director, and the Director is accountable to the Principal of Ƶ.
We believe children learn best through play by exploring, interacting, and discovering the world around them. Through these experiences, children develop independence, problem-solving skills, healthy social interactions, and a strong sense of self. Our program emphasizes moral values, self-esteem, academic readiness, and lifelong learning skills, all grounded in a loving and faith-filled environment.
Saint Mel Catholic Preschool will accomplish this mission by:
● Offering developmentally appropriate activities that encourage children to plan, explore, create, discover, express, listen, and learn.
● Supporting spiritual growth through Bible stories, religious songs, art projects, celebration of religious holidays, first-Friday Mass, and daily opportunities to share God’s love.
● Honoring each child’s unique developmental path and providing meaningful challenges that help strengthen their abilities.
● Encouraging sharing, turn-taking, cooperation, friendship-building, conflict resolution, safety practices, and appreciation of others.
● Supporting children in expressing their thoughts and feelings, while learning to recognize and respect the emotions of those around them.
● Promoting healthy development through large-motor play, fine-motor activities, and awareness of personal health and well-being.