The Caterpillar College has a long tradition of preparing children to be successful in school and in life. Our unique program provides a cobblestone trail for children to delicately transition from a protected toddler at home to a confident independent leader in school.
Caterpillar College preschool students tend to read at the first, second, or even third grade level by graduation. In fact, the school’s alumni typically become class leaders at their local schools. For example, the 2017 co-valedictorians at St. Joseph’s middle school were among seven Caterpillar College alumni.
The Caterpillar College has so many one-of-a-kind features that we suggest you schedule a tour with the director, who will walk you through some of the details. In the meantime, here are some brief examples of what makes our family-oriented school exceptional.
Academics
What sets Caterpillar College apart from most schools is that we are private. We are not mandated by the state to use a play-based curriculum like all other preschools that accept state funds or vouchers. Our students also transition between different specialty rooms (art, science, play, etc.) throughout the day. The Caterpillar College program is structured and disciplined, but also more fun than your child can imagine. We take advantage of every teachable moment, whether it be academic, social, physical, emotional or artistic. Repetition of concepts in group and one-on-one settings provide a solid foundation for learning. Two parent teacher conferences each year evaluate progress across six developmental areas: work habits, social/emotional, language, music & art, physical, and intellectual. Our teachers are patient and exceptional. We focus on each individual student and their strengths and weaknesses to bring them to the next level.
Summer Camp
The Caterpillar College Camp is an integral part of our cobblestone trail in that we continue to review and expand upon age appropriate academics over the summer months. We also expand upon the fun with exclusive water equipment, remarkable field trips and extraordinary experiences.
Co-Oping
Parents and other family members have the opportunity to assist, or co-op, at the school. Whether it be preparing materials for upcoming classes, experimental walking on eggs, or bringing a book to life, these experiences are mutually fun and educational. Grandparents are also highly valued for the cross-generational perspectives they bring into the classroom. Families who co-op for at least two sessions per month can also receive a small tuition discount.
Curbside Pickup
Many of our students have younger siblings who tend to dose off on the ride to school. While you should never leave unattended children alone in a vehicle, you may arrange to have a staff member escort your child to and from a designated drop off area at the curb. This allows you and your other children to remain comfortable, dry, and happy in your vehicle.
Campus
The campus is located on a quiet cul-de-sac, with the school situated far back from the road. Outside on our five-acre campus, play equipment has been specially chosen to develop large motor skills like climbing, skipping, throwing and running. Our spacious classrooms feature abundant natural light and large open areas for the children to play.
