Kindergarten Program
Our Kindergarten program is a full-day program aligned with the guidelines established by the Florida Catholic Conference. The program fosters a love of the Church and the school through the discovery of God’s creation and the world He has given to us.
Students receive instruction in religion, reading readiness and phonics, handwriting, mathematics, science, social studies, health, art, drama, music, and physical education. Instructional materials include manipulatives, textbooks, technology, workbooks, and worksheets.
Kindergarten Readiness Assessment
Mother Teresa of Calcutta Catholic School conducts a Kindergarten Readiness Assessment to determine a child’s preparedness for entry into Kindergarten.
The assessment evaluates skills taught and practiced in VPK, including early literacy and math development, fine-motor skills, learning behaviors and independence, social-emotional growth (respect and responsibility), and the ability to follow directions. Assessments are conducted in a small-group or one-on-one setting with our Kindergarten Faculty & Staff.
Students who have not yet been introduced to or who have not demonstrated readiness in these skill areas may be asked to reapply at a later time. This ensures appropriate placement and supports each child’s opportunity for success in Kindergarten.
Kindergarten Expectations
Kindergarten students are expected to demonstrate age-appropriate learning behaviors and independence necessary for success in a full-day academic setting. This includes the ability to follow directions, participate in structured classroom routines, manage personal belongings, and transition between activities with minimal support.
Students are expected to demonstrate social-emotional growth through respectful behavior, responsible decision-making, and appropriate interactions with peers and adults. These expectations reflect our Catholic values of kindness, responsibility, and care for others.
Faith formation is integrated throughout the school day. Kindergarten students are encouraged to live out their faith by showing respect for God, self, and others, participating in prayer, and practicing Gospel values in their daily actions.
A required 30-minute rest period is scheduled each day. Rest time is a quiet period, and students remain on their mats throughout this time.
Families applying to Mother Teresa of Calcutta Catholic School are expected to support these academic, behavioral, and faith-based expectations as part of our shared commitment to the formation of the whole child.