Our Philosophy

SMP provides an atmosphere which enables each child to feel they are a valued and productive member of the school community. We are committed to a child-centered program of education; meeting each student at their own level, and encouraging them to reach their own potential. Our goal is to ensure that the children develop the skills and self-confidence necessary to prepare them to flourish and thrive in kindergarten and beyond.

Utilizing current research and best practices of early childhood education, St. Matthew’s Preschool recognizes that all learning is interdependent - meaning that each area of development affects the others. Therefore, our curriculum has been designed to educate the whole child and builds a strong cognitive, social, emotional, and physical foundation. Our program is focused on hands-on learning, based on a thematic approach which stimulates curiosity, discovery, and enthusiasm. All educational benchmarks (or goals) such as letter recognition and number sense are supported by interconnected themes, as opposed to being taught in isolation.

SMP provides a balance of activities: active/quiet, free/structured, and individual/group. Daily schedules include circle time, stories, songs or poems, and skill-based center activities, as well as plenty of time for playing. The SMP program also includes enrichment opportunities such as sports, music, cooking, art, stories with Mrs. Crummy, Westmoreland visitors and outside exploration in our grounds and woods.

In addition to following a carefully-developed curriculum, the spiritual lives of the children are also nurtured through a weekly chapel service led by members of the St. Matthew’s clergy. Throughout the year, the values of faith, love, hope and service to others are emphasized. Children are encouraged to share and explore their own faith and traditions and to honor those traditions in their own lives.

FAMILY - SCHOOL CONNECTION

Parents play an integral part in their child’s education, and SMP encourages parents to be active partners with the school. Communication is the cornerstone of a strong partnership between the school and parents. In addition to our daily interactions 3 separate days are set aside for special visitors. In October we welcome Grandparents/Special Visitors, In early May, Mom’s/Special Visitors and late May, Dad’s/Special Visitors. Celebrating and conecting to families is paramount to your child’s experience at SMP.