Jr.K Program
The Junior Kindergarten Language Arts curriculum is designed so that each child can build an early literacy learning foundation for success in becoming a lifelong reader and writer. All parts of early literacy learning are explored. The curriculum includes daily exploration of children’s literature with a follow-up experience, literacy-related center time, Scholastic Weekly Reader, nightly children’s books to encourage a shared literacy experience with a parent or guardian, access to appropriate technology, and ample access to writing materials.
Early literacy areas include the following:
Reading – concepts about print, phonological awareness, decoding and word fluency, vocabulary and concept development, structural features of information and technical materials, analysis of grade-level appropriate narratives.
Writing – writing process and application, handwriting, spelling.
Listening and Speaking – comprehension, oral communication, speaking applications.
Many early literacy experiences are used to catapult other areas of study. A cross-curricular approach is used to focus on Social Studies, Science, Math, Catholic Faith, Social Development, Work Habits, and Motor Skills. Instruction includes use of children’s literature, Weekly Reader, center time, hands on activities/manipulatives, experiments, and technology. The Catholic Faith study is centered on the key elements included in the Archdiocese of Washington guide. It is supported by our daily faith filled classroom environment, the Loyola Press God Loves Us series, attending Mass with the school community, participation in school-wide social concern projects and our 4th grade buddy program. Throughout our school day the children are encouraged to explore, observe, ask questions and interact!
In addition, Jr.K students enjoy an enriched curriculum that includes Music, Physical Education, Library, Technology, Spanish and Art throughout their school week.
Our flexible program offers parents the choice of full-day from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm or half-day from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm, Monday through Friday. Full-day students are offered an afternoon rest period and after school care is available. We accept a maximum of 20 students with two experienced and dedicated full-time teachers. Students must be 4 years of age by August 31st of their incoming year and are required to be proficient in their bathroom skills.
Teacher: Teresa Overly
Teresa Overly graduated from the University of Maryland and several years later received a Masters of Education (PK-6) from Marymount University. Her career at Holy Cross School began in 2002 as the Teacher’s Assistant in the Pre-Kindergarten classroom. The following school year she was selected to become the lead Pre-Kindergarten teacher for the four year-olds program at Holy Cross School. Mrs. Overly feels that her years here at Holy Cross have truly been a blessing in her life and she looks forward to continuing to provide an early childhood classroom environment rooted within the Catholic faith. Mrs. Overly was recognized as the Teacher of the Year for the 2007-2008 school year by the Rock Creek Council of The Knights of Columbus.
Mrs. Overly currently serves on the school Leadership Team and is the faculty representative on the School Advisory Board.
Teaching Assistant: Mary Simmonds
Mary Simmonds graduated from Marist College in Poughkeepsie, NY with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English Writing along with a double minor in Creative Writing and Music (Vocal Performance). In 2021 Miss Simmonds joined the staff of Holy Cross School. Previously, she volunteered through Marist College’s Campus Ministry club, assisting in the classroom and during recess time at local catholic schools. During her junior year of college, she volunteered with Book Buddies where she worked with Kindergarten students to improve their reading skills.
Miss Simmonds grew up attending Catholic schools in the area, so she is thrilled to be a part of another wonderful, supportive community. She is passionate about promoting a love of learning and literacy in the classroom.