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Preschool - Kindergarten Frequently Asked Questions

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

*When is enrollment?

Applications are generally accepted during the annual celebration of Catholic Schools Week in late January.  Open registration is continual; please call the office at 815 478-3951 or check the school website at sjsmanhattan.org.

 

*What factors determine enrollment eligibility?

The priority of accepting new students to the school is: siblings of existing students, registered active St. Joseph parishioners, Catholics where no school is available, other Catholic families, non-Catholics.

*What is the average class size?

Average class size is 15 students.  There is a teacher Assistant in our preschool classroom everyday.  

*What is the Tuition?

A tuition sheet is included in the information packet.  Tuition may be paid in ten installments throughout the school year.  The cost of tuition is discounted for families with multiple students. Facility and Technology fees are separate.  There is a $200 registration fee for all families. Current Families paying the registration fee prior to February 20, receive a 50% discount.

*Is there a choice of half-day or full-day Kindergarten?

Both half–day and full-day kindergarten programs are offered. *Students can switch

programs once, from half to full day or full to half day based on student need.

 

*What Pre-School programs are offered?

3 Year-old Pre-school– 2-or 3 half Days 8:30-11:40 

4 Year-old Pre-school – Full (8:30 – 3:00) or Half Day (8:30 – 11:40)
3 or 5 days per week.

 

Is there a before and after care program available to students?

The St. Joseph Before and After Care Program was implemented to support the parents of working families.  Before/After Care Program provides professional care, supervision, recreation, and enrichment activities. This professionally operated program allows children to experience a safe environment beyond the regular school hours.  In addition, there is ample time set aside for a start on homework. Before care is open to all students, including preschoolers.  After care is open to all full day students.  There is no aftercare for half-day students.

 Hours of Operation: Mon. – Fri. morning: 7:00 am to 8:20 am

Monday through Friday afternoon: 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm

Registration Fee of $30 per family

1 Child $7.00 per hour

2 Children $10.00 per hour

3 or More Children $13.00 per hour

 

*What technology is available to Preschool and kindergarten students?

Our school is equipped with a computer lab and computers in every classroom.  All classrooms have wireless Internet access. Classrooms are also equipped with Smart boards and projectors. 2 Carts of new Chrome books and I-pads are available for student use.  Kindergarten and preschool students go to the lab and work in centers with I-Pads.

 

*Does St. Joseph offer support services?

It is our goal to meet the individual needs of all students.  The Principal works with parents, teachers, and students who are in need of support services.  A part-time School Counselor and Speech Pathologist are also on site.

Two resource teachers are on hand part-time for reinforcement and enrichment. 

 

*What enrichment classes are included in the curriculum?

Art, Music and P.E. classes are all an integral part of the curriculum.  Library classes are provided for grades k-4. Aimsweb Math and Reading Progress Monitoring is offered for students in grades K-8.  Wilson Reading Program is offered to qualifying students.We are currently piloting I-Ready for the upcoming fall.

  

*Is hot lunch available?

Hot Lunch is available to all full-time students. Parent volunteers help run a hot lunch program 3 days a week utilizing food from local restaurants.  The meals must be pre-ordered, and are available on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.  Pizza is offered twice a month sponsored by PT Joe.  All hot lunch is preordered by the month.

*How can parents be involved?

Parents are encouraged to be involved.  Some examples of volunteering include our lunch program, Room Parents, and as classroom helpers. In kindergarten and preschool, parents are invited to help with centers and even with special projects like baking Fridays and assistance in the computer lab.  We love parent involvement.

 

*What are the fundraising expectations?

Fundraising is mandatory for families with students in grades pre K-8.  Mandatory fundraising includes selling Lucky Sunday Raffle tickets and 8-10  hours of volunteering annually.  Various other events are held but are not mandatory. 

*Are Preschool parents required to participate in fundraisers?

Preschool parents are required to sell $300 in Lucky Sunday Raffle tickets.  Any extra fundraising can be applied toward school tuition.

 

*How does St. Joseph rank academically?

Our students rank in the top 10% of the nation in mathematics and reading scores.  

 

*How is religious education incorporated into the curriculum?

The programs of religious instruction include daily prayer, daily religion classes, a weekly child focused liturgy, classroom prayer services, observances of special feasts, opportunities for Reconciliation during Advent and Lent, and preparation for the sacraments.  Together we pray the Rosary on the first Friday each month and every Friday in October and May. 

 

*How does St. Joseph School help others?

Service is important to becoming a Christian adult.  St. Joseph students serve others many ways, supporting Manhattan Food Pantry,  Operation Care Package, Operation Christmas Child,  Shepherd’s Table, and many other personal and world-wide charities as well.  Even our youngest students learn the importance of giving to others in need. 

We also write to and make cards and gifts to homebound friends in our Parish.

*Is bus service available?

Bus transportation is provided by Manhattan

School District 114 for eligible students.  Students must live within the District boundaries and be in a full day program.  Bus service is for K-8 students only.


St. Joseph School

275 W. North Street

Manhattan, IL 60442

815 478-3951

www.sjsmanhattan.org