Preschool Program
State of the Art Preschool Program
St. Jude Regional Catholic School offers a full-day, fully licensed PreK program for children ages 3 and 4. Rooted in Catholic faith and early childhood best practices, the program builds foundational reading, math, social, and emotional skills to prepare students for kindergarten. Our PreK classrooms blend structured learning with hands-on, play-based experiences that nurture the whole child—academically, socially, spiritually, and creatively.
Faith & Religion
Students are introduced to Catholic teachings and learn about God’s love for all children. Daily prayer, stories from Scripture, and simple religious lessons help them form a spiritual foundation. Each classroom includes a prayer table where children explore religious items.
Preschoolers attend Mass beginning in November. PreK-4 students attend every other week, and PreK-3 students attend at their teacher’s discretion. All children sit with middle school “buddies” (5th & 6th graders), who help guide them through the Mass.
Curriculum Used:Stories of God’s Love by RCL Benziger.
Academic Development
The preschool follows the Archdiocese of Washington (ADW) learning standards and incorporates The Creative Curriculum by Teaching Strategies. Students build early literacy and math skills through developmentally appropriate lessons, stories, songs, and hands-on activities that prepare them for kindergarten readiness.
PreK School Hours
Monday - Friday 8:30 am - 2:45 PM
Extended Hours Program
(Before and After Care)
7:00 AM - 8:15 AM
2:45 PM - 6:00 PM
Play-Based Learning
Play is central to learning at St. Jude. Children explore their environment through integrated, developmentally appropriate activities that promote critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving.
Theme-Based Learning
Lessons are planned around age-appropriate themes such as seasons, real-life experiences, holy days, and community events. Children participate in circle time, small-group instruction, dramatic play, free play, music, art, and story time. Through these activities they develop new ideas, build skills, and gain a deeper understanding of the world and God’s presence in it.
Social & Emotional Development
A core goal of the preschool program is to strengthen each child’s social skills, self-image, and sense of self-worth. Teachers create nurturing environments where children build positive relationships with God, peers, and adults. Class plans are flexible and differentiated to honor each child’s learning pace and individual needs.
Independence & Daily Routine
Students practice independence throughout the day, including managing personal belongings, following routines, and making choices during center time. Outdoor play on our playground and an afternoon rest period (required by OCC) are part of the daily schedule. All students must be fully potty trained.
Financial Aid
Parent Testimonials
"At St. Jude, my daughter gained confidence, friendships, and a love of learning in a caring and structured environment."
Dorcas Van der Jagt
"St. Jude gave my daughter a joyful and values-based foundation, where teachers nurture each child’s potential and make learning meaningful from the very start."
Maricon Dans
"St. Jude feels like a second home— where our children are surrounded by joy, curiosity, Catholic values, and a loving community that builds the foundation for lifelong learning."
Douglas & Jenni Gonzalez
