Saint Mary's Preschool
The preschool program at St. Mary's was established in September 2001. It is housed in the Villa on Weybridge Street in Middlebury, Vermont; the former home of the Sisters of Mercy who taught at St. Mary's School. The first floor was remodeled to accommodate an early education program for children between the ages of three and five years of age.
In 2012 the preschool was separated into two different age groups: the Fledglings (ages 3-4) and the Eaglets (ages 4-5). For more information on either of these groupings please visit:
Approach To Learning
By responding to the children's interests, needs, and levels of skills, Preschool teachers are opening the doors of learning for their students. Through purposeful planning in each domain of development and through a balance of teacher-initiated and child-initiated activities, St. Mary's Preschoolers learn, practice, and master essential skills that form the foundations of their lifelong academic journeys.
Children Learn Through Play
At St. Mary's Preschool we believe that play is a child's work. The value of child-directed play, indoors and out, cannot be overstated. Through positive play experiences with others, children strengthen self esteem and confidence. Play opportunities that are hands-on, concrete and relevant to preschoolers lives are provided throughout the day at St. Mary's Preschool. These play opportunities may be child-created and directed, teacher facilitated and/or teacher created, based on child' s interests and skills.
Practicing Traditional Catholic Values
It is the purpose of St. Mary's Preschool to provide a warm, caring environment in which students feel free to be themselves. Through modeling, practicing, and reading and discussing stories from the bible, children develop Catholic beliefs, values and attitudes. The children are encouraged to view themselves as children of God, members of loving families, and to respect and care for others as they begin to live out our school motto "Integrity for Life."
Assessment of Development
Twice each school year (in the fall and in the spring) students’ development is noted using a “Developmental Checklist of Skills.” These checklists, derived from the Vermont Early Learning Standards, are used to inform families of their child’s development and achievements and to inform teacher instruction and curriculum planning. The following eight areas of development are addressed through the use of these documents:
1. Approaches to Learning
2. Social and Emotional Development
3. Language, Literacy & Communication
6. Social Studies
7. Creative Expression
8. Physical Health & Development