As the second generation of baby boomers is coming to end with this year’s kindergarten classes, most schools are seeing a drop in kindergarten enrollment.  However just the opposite is true at Saint Mary School Buffalo Grove.  Kindergarten enrollment is up 58% over last year.  

The increase in school enrollment is being attributed to many factors.  First, the focus on curriculum that Principal Nicole Raftery, new to the school in 2011, brings to the entire school.  Raftery’s philosophy is educating the whole child. Children learn best when they are fully involved in learning activities.  Through educational programs and various teaching methods, Raftery and the faculty strive to enhance positive self-concepts in each student, incorporate aspects of values education, teach basic skills, higher level thinking skills, and self-direction necessary to function as a contributing person in today’s society.

According to Debbie Eppel, Director of Development, there are many more reasons for the increase in the kindergarten enrollment.  First, Saint Mary is one of a few schools offering both half day and all-day kindergarten. The kindergarten program is comprehensive, including core content areas such as religion, language arts (reading, writing, speaking and listening), phonics, writing, handwriting, mathematics, social studies and science concepts. Kindergarten students participate in high caliber programming in music class, Physical Education, Spanish, art, technology and library.  Additionally, kindergarteners may participate in an extended day program which appeals to working families.  The Saint Mary extended day program is unique, offering structure as well as play and snacks.  The Saint Mary community is excited to welcome all the new faces and happy to see all those returning.  The school year is off to a vibrant and strong beginning.    

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