Is St. James Preschool a licensed facility?
Our facility is fully licensed by the State of New Jersey. The Preschool has been operating at St. James Church for 25 years with the addition of the Pre-K program in 1995.
How many certified teachers are on staff?
The teaching staff at St. James Preschool comprises 6 certified teachers and 5 trained assistant teachers. Teachers are certified by either the State of New Jersey or NAEYC’s Child Development Associate’s certification. Our staff participates in ongoing training and development by attending educational conferences and workshops throughout the year. Teachers are also certified in basic First Aid and CPR.
I am interested in the St. James Preschool program. How do I enroll?
We offer several Open House dates in January so that you may visit the preschool. Priority Applications are generally accepted during the third week in January, followed by New Applications. Please visit the Enrollment page for detailed information.
When does the school year begin and end?
The St. James Preschool calendar roughly follows the Montclair Public School calendar. The Preschool begins on Wednesday after Labor Day and ends on the first Friday in June. The Preschool follows the public school calendar for February and April vacations.
Does St. James Preschool offer any other programs?
Children who attend the preschool participate in a Creative Movement class directed by a professional movement instructor on Mondays, Wednesdays or Fridays. Music is offered as part of the preschool curriculum and instruction is given by a trained professional once per week during Circle Time.
Does my child need to be completely toilet trained to attend St. James Preschool?
Children do not have to be completely toilet trained upon entrance, but we ask that you be in the process at home.
My child has severe food allergies. What measures does St. James Preschool have in place to address allergies?
Once enrolled, parents are asked to complete a Food Allergy Action plan describing the particular allergy. Teachers are trained to administer EPI pens if needed. Special attention is given to providing safe snacks and creating an allergy-friendly lunchroom. Parents are welcome and encouraged to address specific concerns with our Director.
How can parents become involved in the school?
We welcome participation through our parent volunteer program. Parents actively participate in classroom activities by sharing their cultural backgrounds and by helping plan field trips, our Family Brunch and year-end picnic. Parents are also responsible for providing the school snack for one week during the course of the school year.
Does St. James Preschool celebrate holidays?
The St. James Preschool curriculum does not include the celebration of holidays, but we do invite all families to share their cultural heritages and holiday traditions with us in the classroom.
Besides the Director and the Staff, is there a group who governs St. James Preschool?
A Board of Trustees composed of parents, church members and early childhood educators govern St. James Preschool.
Does St. James Preschool offer a summer camp?
St. James Church offers a summer camp during the last weeks in June and 4 weeks in July. Preschool families and church members receive priority registration for the camp, staffed by St. James Preschool.
