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SJA Early Learner Program OverviewThe Early Learners Program at Saint John the Apostle Catholic School is a structured to be a Kindergarten Preparatory program utilizing the Diocese of Richmond Consensus Curriculum Early Learners Curriculum and Framework. Our program is focused on the development of the whole child through structured early education foundational skills to support school readiness as children transition into more structured educational settings in the future.
The Consensus Curriculum Framework, presented by teachers, is informed by the Virginia's Foundation Blocks for Early Learning Standards which articulates the skills and knowledge young children need to demonstrate success in Junior Kindergarten and later in Kindergarten. The early childhood standards areas include:
⚫ Communication⚫ Fine Motor
⚫ Gross Motor
⚫ Math
⚫ Reading
⚫ Religion
⚫ Science
⚫ Social Emotional
⚫ Social Studies
⚫ Work Habits
⚫ Writing
The following goals define the Little Rays Program at Saint John the Apostle Catholic School by:Providing age-appropriate activities in all areas of study.
Allowing each child to develop at his or her own rate and achieve readiness for the next stage of their education.
Encouraging behavior and attitudes based on Christian values.
Providing each child with a happy, congenial environment in which to develop mentally, emotionally, socially, and physically.
Assisting each child in the transition between home and school, and in the adjustment to group situations.
Nuturing each child's self-esteem.
Student Requirements
Children entering the SJA Little Rays Early Learners Program (3 yrs. old) class must be three years old by September 30 and toilet trained to attend. A health form documenting required physical and adequate immunizations, as well as a birth certificate, must be on file for a student to begin class.
Religious Exemption and Teacher Qualifications
The SJA Little Rays Early Learners Program follows the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) childcare center regulation requirements as a religiously exempt program. Our staff members meet or exceed the state requirements of the VDOE regarding education and experience. All teachers are certified in First Aid, CPR, and health observation instruction.NOTE: There will be a parent informational meeting in the late Spring 2026.
*Due to limited space in our Early Learners, priority will be given to Catholic families (first to SJA parishioners) and siblings*
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