Early Learning Overview
At St. Alphonsus in Seattle, our Early Learning program provides a joyful, faith-centered preschool experience that grows with your child. From Early Preschool to Preschool to Pre-Kindergarten, students move through a thoughtful sequence designed to build confidence, independence, and kindergarten readiness.
Age Requirements
Children ages 2.5 to 5 are placed in the program that best aligns with their age and developmental stage. For students in an “in-between” stage, we carefully evaluate which classroom will provide the most beneficial learning experience.
All students must be 2.5 years old and fully potty-trained by the first day of school.
Early Preschool
Age Group: 2.5-3 years old
Half-Day or Full-Day, 5 days/week
Our Early Preschool program introduces young learners to the joy of school in a warm, nurturing environment. Through play, music, stories, and hands-on exploration, students build early language skills, social confidence, and independence while learning classroom routines. Families may choose a half-day or full-day option, five days a week, to best support their child’s growth and academic readiness.
Carissa Person
Early Preschool teacher
Preschool
Age Group: 3-4 years old
Full-Day only, 5 days/week
Our preschool classroom fosters a love of learning through play-based exploration, following the Reggio Emilia philosophy. Guided by curiosity and structured activities, students engage in hands-on projects, experiments, and discussions that build foundational academic, social, and emotional skills. Thematic units integrate learning across subjects in a joyful and supportive setting.
Erin Roussell
Preschool teacher
Pre-Kindergarten
Age Group: 4-5 years old
Full-Day only, 5 days/week
Our pre-kindergarten class follows Montessori principles, emphasizing child-led learning, independence, and self-discovery. A prepared environment with specialized materials fosters hands-on exploration, helping children develop cognitive, social, emotional, and physical skills at their own pace.
Edal Robinston
Pre-k teacher
Program Schedule
Our Early Learning Program follows the St. Alphonsus Parish School calendar.
| Time | Optional | |
| Full-Day | 8:15am – 3:05pm 2:15 pm Dismissal every Wednesday |
Hot Lunch available for purchase Extended Care (dismissal – 6pm) |
| Half-Day (Morning) | 8:15am – 12pm | Hot Lunch available for purchase |
Specialist Classes
Students participate in weekly Music, PE, and Library classes, building foundational skills in these areas. Our early learners also perform in our winter and spring concerts under the direction of our Music teacher.
Faith & Catholic Values
Our teachers partner with parents to nurture the faith development of each child. Through daily interactions, engaging activities, and a loving environment, students come to know the deep love God has for them. Our school mission applies to every student, ensuring they grow in faith, knowledge, and character.
Dedicated Staff
Our certified Early Childhood educators provide high-quality instruction in a nurturing environment. We maintain a maximum child-to-staff ratio of 10:1, ensuring personalized attention. Our team includes three full-time lead teachers and three full-time aides.
