The Preschool at St. Mary’s Early Childhood Center is Reggio-inspired, nationally accredited, state licensed and Level 4 on Indiana’s quality rating scale. Our work facilitates cognitive, social, emotional, physical and creative development. The children are ready for school when they complete the program and move on to kindergarten.
For over 60 years, St. Mary’s has been focused on serving children from all backgrounds with the highest-quality preschool experiences that will transition into a foundation for lifelong success. Our mission statement is based on the premise that the children we serve are inherently competent, capable, and strong.
General Info:
Address: Downtown – 901 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. St Indianapolis, IN 46202, Lawrence – 9230 Hawkins Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46216, Mid-North – 4186 Broadway St., Indianapolis, IN 46205
Phone: 317-635-1491
Website: www.stmarysecc.org
Q&A with St. Mary’s Early Childhood Center:
What makes St. Mary’s Early Childhood Center unique?
We provide a high-quality education and serve all socioeconomic backgrounds. We use a sliding fee scale based on income. Our approach within the classrooms and the focus of our educators makes us unique.
What is St. Mary’s Early Childhood Center’s educational philosophy?
Reggio Emilia
What is St. Mary’s Early Childhood Center’s age/grade range?
We accept children ages 3 to 5.
What is your enrollment policy? Are there any key dates parents should be aware of?
Enrollment at St. Mary’s Early Childhood Center is based on current availability and occurs year-round. If there are no current openings, children will be placed on a waitlist.
What are the standard school day hours? Does St. Mary’s Early Childhood Center offer flexible day/hour options? Is before/after school care available?
School year: July 31, 2024 – May 28, 2025
Program hours: Monday – Friday, 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM
Before and after care services are available.
How many children are in each class? How are children divided up?
Class sizes are based on the size of the room. We have a 7:1 ratio of child to adult in each room with an average of 14 children. Students are not separated based on age to allow for a diverse learning experience.
What is the teacher/child ratio?
1:7
What are the teacher’s credentials?
St. Mary’s teaching team is second to none, highly-skilled in meeting the diverse needs of children, including those experiencing trauma or who have difficulties in structured learning programs. Our team has been trained in the Reggio Emilia philosophy and multiple staff members are certified in Applied Educational Neuroscience, including calming strategies based on research related to adversity and brain development.
Is parental participation required?
Children, teachers, families and community are interactive and work together. Programs are family centered and focus on each child’s relation to others. Engagement and relationships with families are considered to be essential.
How do teachers communicate with parents? How often do parents receive updates?
Teachers communicate with families through see-saw, our blogs and newsletters. Families receive daily communication and are always welcome to contact for additional.
Does St. Mary’s Early Childhood Center offer support for students with special needs?
We provide access to community and social services.
How much time do the children spend outside?
As weather allows, the children go outside. We value outside experiences and make it a priority to be outside as often as possible.
Are meals and/or snacks provided?
Both meals and snacks are provided.
Does my child need to be potty-trained?
Preferred but we can assist.
What enrichment programs/activities are offered?
All activities are offered within our programs. We do not offer any additional activities at this time.
Who should parents contact for more information about St. Mary’s Early Childhood Center?
For more information, email [email protected] or call 317.635.1491.
