Our art education program in the preschool classes focuses on the process of imagining, designing and creating. In the lower school classes, the students focus on the elements and the design principles.
“Episcopal schools are created to be communities that honor, celebrate, and worship God as the center of Life” (from the National Association of Episcopal Schools). The chapel program is the symbol of what makes an Episcopal school unique. We pray, we sing, and we say the Lord’s Prayer. The traditions of other denominations and faith groups are respected, and the school welcomes families of all religious faith groups and Christian denominations. Episcopal school worship embraces the full breadth of the human family!
Music education consists of a program that contributes to the physical, social and intellectual development of children. Class activities include speech, singing, creative movement, organized dance, drama, reading, writing, listening, performance, instrumental experiences, and instrumental technique. Value is placed on the process of learning and the importance of imitation, exploration, play, practice, demonstration, and improvisation. The program is framed by Orff-Schulwerk Music for Children and the First Steps in Music program.
The Early Childhood program develops readiness for more formal instruction in singing, instrumental music, learning to play an instrument, and dance in the later grades. The music program is about developing the Body, Mind, and Spirit of each child and instilling a love and appreciation of music that will last a lifetime.
Kindergarten, first grade, and second grade students are introduced to four main areas: movement, ball skills, rhythmic skills and games, locomotor and non-locomotor skills, and eye hand coordination. In all activities, students are taught to apply the values of teamwork and sportsmanship.
Studies show that children who learn a second language may improve their mental agility, memory, and attention, as well as their ability to concentrate. Bilingual students show increased creativity, greater ability to solve complex problems, and generally score higher on standardized tests.
At St. James, our Spanish curriculum is developed specifically for young children, and all lessons are designed for young learners.
We introduce yoga at an early age to encourage self-esteem and body awareness with a physical activity that is non- competitive. Yoga practice encourages balance, supports mental and physical strength, peace, relaxation and connection to oneself. Yoga brings that marvelous inner light that all children have to the surface. Our Yoga class is led by a certified yoga instructor.
