- Award Winning Preschool
- Recognized by Suburban Life Media’s readers “Best Preschool in the Western Suburbs” – Fall 2016
- Solid curriculum: “More than Core”
- Catholic faith formation in addition to a superior academic education
- Curriculum is an expanded, enhanced version of the Illinois Common Core Learning Standards
- Technology integrated throughout the curriculum
- Technology teachers work with classroom teachers to ensure computer curriculum enhances and compliments classroom learning at all levels.
- Weekly computer classes develop and build computer skills and literacy
- 1:1 Device Initiative (each child has his/her own electronic device for use during school day)
- Individualized/Differentiated Instruction & Classes
- St. Mary’s teachers develop and utilize instructional methods that guarantee personal growth and individual success for each child
- Response to Intervention (RTI) strategies
- We use RTI is used to identify learning needs of struggling students and provide intervention support.
- When applicable, we assist parents with obtaining consultation and supplementary services for their children from the Downers Grove public school system.
- Supplemental reading resource program
- Reading resource teacher works with small groups of students who need individualized attention, especially in grades 1-4.
- Periodic standardized reading tests beginning in Kindergarten, to ensure all students attain appropriate grade-level benchmarks in reading.
- Supplemental math resource program
- Math resource teacher works with small groups of students who need individualized attention, especially in grades 1-4.
- Periodic standardized reading tests beginning in Kindergarten, to ensure all students attain appropriate grade-level benchmarks in math.
- Classroom aides
- Aides available in all classrooms.
- Assist individual students, or small groups of students, who may need additional assistance, as directed by the teacher.
- Progress monitoring systems to track student growth
- AIMSweb and other tools are used to ensure students are meeting benchmarks.
- Children’s Garden and plant science programs
- In the spring and fall, our onsite Children’s Garden provides hands-on learning experiences in plant science.
- Spanish instruction beginning in Kindergarten
- Physical education: 2 days per week
- Fine arts program (art, band, choir)
- Student to student tutoring
- Faith buddies
- Student and classroom service opportunities
- Weekly visits to the library
- Student support services
- Onsite social worker