Helping Kids Cope with Seasonal Changes in Fall

As the vibrant days of summer fade into the crispness of fall, many children experience a range of emotions. Seasonal transitions, especially the shift from summer to fall, can be challenging for children. Changes in routine, weather, and daylight can affect their mental health, sometimes leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Understanding these changes and offering supportive strategies can make a significant difference in how kids adjust during this period.

The Impact of Seasonal Changes on Children’s Mental Health

As fall sets in, children return to school, adapt to new schedules, and cope with the changing weather and shorter daylight hours. These changes can significantly impact their mental health in the following ways:

1. Routine Changes and Anxiety: The transition from the relaxed pace of summer to the structured environment of school can cause anxiety in children. Adjusting to new teachers, classmates, and academic expectations can be overwhelming, especially for those prone to anxiety or other mental health disorders.
2. Weather Changes and Mood Shifts: The fall season brings cooler temperatures and less sunlight, which can influence mood and energy levels. Reduced exposure to sunlight is linked to seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression that occurs at certain times of the year. While SAD is more commonly recognized in adults, children and adolescents can also be affected.
3. Decreased Daylight and Sleep Disruptions: Shorter days can disrupt children’s sleep patterns, leading to fatigue and irritability. Lack of sufficient sleep can worsen symptoms of anxiety and depression, making it harder for kids to cope with daily stressors.
4. Social Changes and Peer Pressure: Returning to school often means navigating new social dynamics. Peer pressure, academic stress, and the fear of not fitting in can contribute to emotional distress, especially in children and adolescents who already struggle with self-esteem or social anxiety.

Learn more, here.

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Saint Francis of Assisi | What is Saint Francis of Assisi known for?

Saint Francis of Assisi, the Patron Saint of animals, merchants and ecology, is one of the patron saints of Italy and is a very popular saint in the Catholic Church. He was particularly well known for his love of animals and nature.

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The Feast Day of St. Francis of Assisi: Honoring the Patron Saint of Italy

Every year on October 4th, Catholics worldwide celebrate the Feast Day of St. Francis of Assisi, a beloved figure known for his profound connection to nature, dedication to humility and a steadfast commitment to serving the poor.

For Italian Americans, the day holds special significance, as St. Francis is not only the patron saint of animals and the environment but also of Italy itself.

Born in Assisi in 1181, St. Francis grew up in a wealthy family, yet chose to abandon a life of comfort for one of simplicity and devotion.

His transformation led him to establish the Franciscan Order, a vocation that focuses on aiding the poor. His reverence for nature inspired Pope John Paul II to name him the patron saint of ecology in 1979.

Throughout Italy and in Italian American communities, the Feast Day of St. Francis is celebrated with masses, processions, and the traditional “Blessing of the Animals.”

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Cultivating Kindness and Nurturing Youth Mental Health

In the midst of a mental health crisis among youth, characterized by rising rates of anxiety, depression, and loneliness, it has never been more important to foster supportive communities, authentic connections, and a culture of kindness. The US Surgeon General warns that loneliness has reached epidemic proportions, affecting individuals of all ages, but perhaps most alarmingly, our children and young people. Meaningful social connections have been shown to have a protective effect on both mental and physical health. The practice of kindness can also catalyze the nurturing of youth mental health, build resilient communities, and foster a sense of belonging and purpose.

These statistics underscore the urgent need to address the loneliness epidemic, particularly among the younger demographic, where the effects can be profound and enduring. Kindness, community, and purpose are part of the answer.

Read more, here.

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Pediatrician Offers Tips on Getting Kids Back into a Sleep Routine

The Importance of Sleep for Children

Brown said that sleep plays a critical role in a child’s overall health and development.

“When you’re in deep sleep, that’s when you grow the best,” he said. “In fact, you actually grow more during your sleep than when you’re awake.”

Brown said that in addition to physical growth, adequate sleep enhances attention span, mood, and overall classroom performance.

He said many teachers can trace behavioral and academic issues back to a lack of sleep.

Reestablishing a Sleep Routine

Brown said parents should start adjusting sleep schedules immediately to prepare children for the upcoming school year.

“You need to start tonight,” he said to emphasize the importance of reintroducing a consistent bedtime and wake-up time before school begins.

He said even though school starts next week, beginning the routine adjustment now will help ease the transition.

Learn more, here.

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Happy Labor Day

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How to Create a Puppet | Come Learn with Me

Art instructors Emma and Caterina teach kids how to create paper sack hand-puppets. Our hands represent our spirit and the puppet represents our bodies. Together our spirit and our body can do things like sports and rock climbing.

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Peace Through Prayer | Growing Faith

Sophia and Miguel have some hard times and learn that they can find peace when they pray to Heavenly Father.

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ACCREDITATION

St. Mary's School and all Archdiocese of Washington Schools are Cognia Accredited Schools. The Archdiocese of Washington maintains system wide accreditation having met the requirements established by the Cognia Accreditation Commission. This distinction is the result of extensive self-study, ongoing evaluation, and continual striving for academic excellence.

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INTRODUCTION

St. Mary's School is a Catholic institution affiliated with the Catholic Schools Office of the Archdiocese of Washington and, as such, follows the Archdiocesan principles, goals and curriculum. To the parish and community, St. Mary’s represents a successful educational institution of academic excellence based in Catholicism. The pastor of St. Mary's Parish is the chief administrative officer of the school. The principal, acting in accordance with the policies of the Archdiocesan Board of Education, is the delegated administrative head of the school and is responsible for the immediate direction of the school and its instructional programs. The principal, teachers and staff form the faculty. St. Mary's School Advisory Board provides the pastor and the principal with assistance, consultation, and recommendations on matters pertaining to the administration and management of the parochial school and its physical facilities. St. Mary’s Home and School Association promotes communication to act as a bridge between the home and the school. The Home and School Association, in partnership with the faculty of St. Mary’s School, plans and facilitates social, service and cultural activities during the school year. Daily efforts are made to bring the students to a knowledge of Jesus Christ and His teachings, to develop an attitude of prayer and to foster a knowledge and an appreciation of our Catholic faith and heritage.

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175th Anniversary of St Ignatius Catholic Church in Ft Washington, MD | ...

Join Cardinal Wilton Gregory, Archbishop of Washington, as he celebrates the 175th anniversary of the founding of St. Ignatius in Ft Washington, MD

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Belief Statements

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Uniform Expectations

Uniform Expectations HERE

Uniform Vendor Info HERE

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How to increase your happiness

Dig into the benefits of practicing gratitude in your everyday life, and discover how being thankful can impact your happiness.

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Many people would say the connection between happiness and gratefulness is very simple: when you are happy, you are grateful. But think again. Is it really the happy people that are grateful? Quite a number of people have everything that it would take to be happy, and they are not happy. So, how does gratefulness work? Explore the key components to living gratefully.

Directed by Avi Ofer.

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Mission Statement

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Be it known to all...

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How to Create a Temple Craft

Art teachers Emma and Caterina cut and fold paper to resemble a temple. They also teach us how temples are a place of peace and light, comfort and happiness - where the spirit of Jesus Christ is found.

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At St. Mary’s, we believe that each student ...

At St. Mary’s, we believe that each student:

• is created in the image of God
• is unique and irreplaceable
• has a purpose according to God’s will
• is more than a mind and has spiritual and emotional needs that must be addressed
• will find his or her true identity by listening to and obeying Christ
• has the potential to bring the light of the gospel to dark places
• has a strong need for validation and affirmation
• has been blessed with valuable gifts that need to be developed
• needs to grow in awareness of his or her own potential and strength

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A PLACE FOR YOUR FAMILY

When you enroll your student in preschool at St. Mary’s School, your whole family becomes part of our community. We have monthly opportunities for our families to gather for social, service or spiritual activities. They include Parent Coffees, Family Movie Nights, Fall Festival, Grandparent’s Day, Family Lunch, St. Nicholas Festival, Multi-Cultural Celebration, May Crowing, Popsicle Social, Father Daughter Dance, Greg Gannon Food Drive and Muffins with Mom.

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The Olive Trees

A Nephite prophet Jacob likens scattered Israel to a vineyard with olive trees, branches, and fruit. Branches are removed from a dying tree and grafted to healthy trees and saved.

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SCHOOL PRIDE & LASTING FRIENDSHIPS

At St. Mary’s School, we want our littlest learners to know they are a valued and full member our school. Our prekindergarten classes participate in all developmentally appropriate, schoolwide functions including assemblies, spirit activities, field day and religious celebrations. Our prekindergarten students wear their school uniforms proudly. We know that a key part of early childhood development is social and emotional growth. We promote positive participation in our school community, respect for fellow students and teachers, and helping one another. At St. Mary’s School, we provide a positive learning environment where our students can form lasting friendships.

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EXPERIENCED TEACHERS

Our goal is to use our love of teaching to foster a love of learning in our students. Our preschool teachers have an average of ten years’ experience in the classroom. They’ve seen trends in early education shift over the years but understand the need to focus on educating the whole child and how to do that. In addition to the teacher, each preschool classroom has a minimum of one teaching assistant. Our prekindergarteners also visit weekly with the librarian, technology specialist, music teacher and physical education instructor.

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Remembering Jesus | Growing Faith

Miguel and Sophia learn how to prepare for the sacrament as they talk about the meaning of the bread and water and of Jesus conquering death so we can repent and feel His spirit.

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Happy 4th of July!

Happy 4th of July! Have fun and be safe.

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THE JOY OF LEARNING

At St. Mary’s we want our preschoolers to know the joys of learning and discovery. We believe learning takes place both in and out of the classroom. Field trips allow our students to make connections between their classroom learning and their world. Our tuition at St. Mary’s School is all inclusive; there is never an additional field trip cost, technology fee or book bill. We set up our classrooms so that each student can make their own discoveries about the things that interest them. Each of our classrooms has a designated “science-space” with rotating tools, books, and opportunities to explore.

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Who Is Mary? | Stories of our Blessed Mother Mary

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EXPERIENCED TEACHERS

Our goal is to use our love of teaching to foster a love of learning in our students. Our preschool teachers have an average of ten years’ experience in the classroom. They’ve seen trends in early education shift over the years but understand the need to focus on educating the whole child and how to do that. In addition to the teacher, each preschool classroom has a minimum of one teaching assistant. Our prekindergarteners also visit weekly with the librarian, technology specialist, music teacher and physical education instructor.

600 Veirs Mill Rd., Rockville, MD 20852

Phone (301) 762-4179

Fax (301) 762-9550

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THE JOY OF LEARNING

At St. Mary’s we want our preschoolers to know the joys of learning and discovery. We believe learning takes place both in and out of the classroom. Field trips allow our students to make connections between their classroom learning and their world. Our tuition at St. Mary’s School is all inclusive; there is never an additional field trip cost, technology fee or book bill. We set up our classrooms so that each student can make their own discoveries about the things that interest them. Each of our classrooms has a designated “science-space” with rotating tools, books, and opportunities to explore.

600 Veirs Mill Rd., Rockville, MD 20852

Phone (301) 762-4179

Fax (301) 762-9550

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Saint John the Dwarf | Stories of Saints | Episode 243

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Happy Father's Day

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EDUCATING THE WHOLE CHILD

We focus on more than rigorous academics by affording our students the opportunity to learn confidence, independence, and resilience. We love seeing the smiles on our students’ faces when they master a new skill or overcome an obstacle.

Our goal is to help each child grow their sense of self-worth and well-being and always encourages the positive “I can” attitude.

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5 Myths about the Priesthood | 5 Things with Fr. Bill Byrne

5 Myths about the Priesthood | 5 Things with Fr. Bill Byrne

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HIGH ACADEMIC STANDARDS

St. Mary’s offers an early childhood program for children three, four and five years of age. The goal of the school is to promote the spiritual, social, emotional and intellectual development of each child in a nurturing atmosphere with Catholic values.

HIGH ACADEMIC STANDARDS

St. Mary’s Preschool follows the rigorous academic standards of the Archdiocese of Washington. We use
the Big Day for Pre-K Curriculum to achieve those standards. Personalized instruction is provided on a
daily basis so that each child receives a challenging and engaging education.

At St. Mary’s we fully support play-based learning. Our students leave the Prekindergarten program equipped to take on the challenges of Kindergarten.

600 Veirs Mill Rd., Rockville, MD 20852

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A GREAT PLACE TO GROW

Come find out why St. Mary’s School is

A GREAT PLACE TO GROW

St. Mary’s offers an early childhood program for children three, four and five years of age.

The goal of the school is to promote the spiritual, social, emotional and intellectual development

of each child in a nurturing atmosphere with Catholic values.

BE A ST. MARY’S PRESCHOOL ANGEL

* For more information or to schedule a tour, please call Caroline Conwayat 301-762-4179, ext. 3111 or email cconway@smsrockville.org

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Saint Paula | Stories of Saints | Episode 242

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EXTRACURRICULAR – ARCHODIOCESAN MUSIC PROGRAM

Philosophy

The music program seeks to play an equal part with the rest of the educational process in the development of the students so that they will grow into mature, Christian adults. It is not a vocationally oriented program, although many of our students have gone on to become professional musicians and music educators. Our primary position is not that of a “feeder” program for the secondary schools. Rather, we try to impart to as many children as possible the unique experience which can be attained only through an instrumental program; to teach the techniques of performance and the fundamentals of music and music making. The program strives to serve the needs of the schools, the parents, and the students.

This program is a diocesan program. We are as concerned with the schools whose music programs are not successful as with those which are. Schools whose band enrollments have dropped to as low as 8 to 10 students were not abandoned because they were not carrying their own weight or because they were difficult to schedule. The program operates the same way in each school and is committed to making instrumental music available to every student in the Archdiocese.

CLICK HERE for details and registration.

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Happy Memorial Day

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5 Pieces of Advice for Guys | 5 Things with Fr. Bill Byrne

5 Pieces of Advice for Guys | 5 Things with Fr. Bill Byrne

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Academics : Seventh and Eighth Grades

Our curriculum focuses on the development of the whole child. Departmentalization begins in the fourth grade and continues through eighth grade.

Classes are taught in a loving, supportive, Christian environment. There is a strong emphasis on faith development, and Catholic identity is visible throughout the school. Students are encouraged to learn about and practice the Catholic faith and to live this faith through community service and outreach programs.

Teachers use formal and informal assessments at all grade levels. Scantron Performance Standardized Assessment is used from Kindergarten through Eighth grade and is administered in at the beginning of the year, mid year, and at the end of the year..

Writing portfolios are integrated into the language arts curriculum at all grade levels, allowing students to monitor their progress in writing each year.

Seventh and Eighth Grades

Religion:

The religion program is a two-year preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation. It is based on the doctrines of the Catholic Church as found in Scripture and Tradition. There is an emphasis on the Ten Commandments and the Creed. The students are led to understand how to make moral choices based on the Catholic faith and to establish a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Students attend school Mass one day a week. They participate in the Sacrament of Reconciliation during Advent and Lent.

Language Arts:

The language arts curriculum is an integrated program of literature, grammar, vocabulary, and writing. The students write poems, personal narratives, short stories, and persuasive letters to add to their writing portfolios.

Mathematics:

Math instruction is designed to develop techniques and strategies to integrate math into daily life. The students learn and use formulae and algebraic expressions. They are introduced to the use of graphing calculators and computer spreadsheets. There are grade-level and accelerated classes.

Science:

The science program is designed to teach students to understand the universe around them. They develop problem solving strategies and effective methods of rational thinking. The focus in seventh grade is life science -- biology and human health, and in eighth grade physical science -- chemistry and physics.

Social Studies:

The social studies program focuses on history, civics, current events and geography. The students learn how to write a research paper.

600 Veirs Mill Rd., Rockville, MD 20852

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Academics : Fifth and Sixth Grades

Our curriculum focuses on the development of the whole child. Departmentalization begins in the fourth grade and continues through eighth grade.

Classes are taught in a loving, supportive, Christian environment. There is a strong emphasis on faith development, and Catholic identity is visible throughout the school. Students are encouraged to learn about and practice the Catholic faith and to live this faith through community service and outreach programs.

Teachers use formal and informal assessments at all grade levels. Scantron Performance Standardized Assessment is used from Kindergarten through Eighth grade and is administered in at the beginning of the year, mid year, and at the end of the year..

Writing portfolios are integrated into the language arts curriculum at all grade levels, allowing students to monitor their progress in writing each year.

Fifth and Sixth Grades

Religion: In the middle grades, the religion curriculum emphasizes Catholic teaching through a foundation in the Mass and Old and New Testaments with support from The Catechism of the Catholic Church. Students attend mass weekly with the parish community. They participate in school-wide masses and the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Students continue to memorize Catholic prayers. The Family Life program is introduced at this level.

Language Arts: The language arts program is a literature-based program with a focus on vocabulary development and reading comprehension. Grammar, spelling, and mechanics are an integral part of the writing program. The students continue to maintain the portfolio begun in kindergarten.

Mathematics: The math curriculum stresses operations with fractions and decimals. As students progress they learn pre-algebraic concepts.

Science: Science instruction builds on concepts and techniques introduced in the earlier grades. The scientific process is used for student hands-on investigations. The students are taught critical reading strategies which apply to more technical material.

Social Studies: Social studies programs include topics of history, civics, current events and geography with a strong emphasis on appreciation and respect for the various cultures that comprise the world population.

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5 Things I Learned from My Dog | 5 Things with Fr. Bill Byrne

5 Things I Learned from My Dog | 5 Things with Fr. Bill Byrne

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Happy Mother's Day!

Happy Mother's Day to YOU!

600 Veirs Mill Rd., Rockville, MD 20852

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Academics : Second Through Fourth Grades

Saint Mary's School offers a curriculum of academic and enrichment programs at every grade level. Additional teachers are employed to provide academic support as well as to teach Spanish, art, music, physical education, computer technology, and library skills.

Second Through Fourth Grades

The religion curriculum emphasizes the growth of students' Catholic Identity. The Catechism of the Catholic Church is the basis for Catholic teaching. The students participate in a weekly Mass, special liturgical services, and charitable outreach programs. The students are prepared for and receive the Sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist, in the second grade. There is an emphasis on memorization of Catholic prayers.

Language arts instruction is a literature-based reading program with a focus on phonics, vocabulary building, and reading comprehension. The students continue to build their writing portfolio with original, creative, and factual writing. English grammar and usage rules are taught through the writing process.

Math instruction makes use of manipulatives and technology for conceptual learning and the development of problem-solving skills. Students acquire skills in addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, measurement, and geometry, probability, and statistics.

Science instruction uses investigation through a hands-on approach to develop critical thinking skills. Each grade has topics appropriate to that level. Students investigate topics such as the solar system, light and sound, the human body, and health.

The social studies curriculum assists students in becoming responsible citizens. The students learn about their community, state, and country. There is a strong emphasis on geography skills and history. Students learn to respect cultural differences.

600 Veirs Mill Rd., Rockville, MD 20852

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Smiles are Contagious | Giovanni Maroki | TEDxKids@ElCajon

When you smile at someone, they smile back...smiles are contagious! 1st grade student at Vista Grande Elementary School This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community.

600 Veirs Mill Rd., Rockville, MD 20852

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Academics : Kindergarten and First Grade

Saint Mary's School offers a curriculum of academic and enrichment programs at every grade level. Additional teachers are employed to provide academic support as well as to teach Spanish, art, music, physical education, computer technology, and library skills.

Kindergarten and First Grade

The religion curriculum emphasizes God's special love for His children. The foundation for the practice of the Catholic faith is established through simple prayers, Bible stories, songs, attendance at Mass, and daily instruction.

Language arts instruction is centered on the correlation between spoken and written language. The reading readiness program develops phonemic awareness and introduces a basic sight vocabulary. Students read from decodable books and supplemental trade books. Students' writing portfolios are initiated as a cumulative collection of the children's creative work.

Basic skills and concepts in mathematics are developed through the manipulative approach. Number competency, cognitive skills, and problem solving are stressed, encouraging students to become competent problem solvers.

Science instruction begins with basic observation of the children's environment. Students learn about and use their five senses in observations. Simple experiments using the scientific approach help students make informed conclusions.

The social studies program fosters growth in simple geography skills and the awareness of a child's neighborhood and local community. The program stresses the importance of good citizenship and multicultural awareness.

600 Veirs Mill Rd., Rockville, MD 20852

Phone (301) 762-4179

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Our Academics

Saint Mary's School academic curriculum follows the guidelines and academic standards provided by the Archdiocese of Washington Catholic Schools Office. The school is designed for students from Preschool through eighth grade. Since students enter school with a wide range of skills, each student is motivated to explore and develop his/her skills and talents in a variety of academic and extracurricular programs.

Our curriculum focuses on the development of the whole child. The classes are self-contained in kindergarten through third grade. Departmentalization begins in the fourth grade and continues through eighth grade.

Classes are taught in a loving, supportive, Christian environment. There is a strong emphasis on faith development, and Catholic identity is visible throughout the school. Students are encouraged to learn about and practice the Catholic faith and to live this faith through community service and outreach programs.

Teachers use formal and informal assessments at all grade levels. The Scantron Performance Standardized Assessment is used in Kindergarten through Eighth grade and is administered three times a year (beginning of the year, midyear, and end of the year).

Writing portfolios are integrated into the language arts curriculum at all grade levels, allowing students to monitor their progress in writing each year.

600 Veirs Mill Rd., Rockville, MD 20852

Phone (301) 762-4179

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The Battle for Your Time: Exposing the Costs of Social Media | Dino Ambr...

Do we truly comprehend how much of our time and attention is given to technology? In his talk, Dino Ambrosi reframes how we think about our relationships to devices, and shares his ideas on how to create healthy digital habits. 

 Dino Ambrosi, the founder of Project Reboot, is an expert at guiding teens and young adults to relationships with technology that empower them. While studying at UC Berkeley, he created a popular course called Becoming Tech Intentional which he taught to over 60 of his fellow students who reduced their screen time by an average of over 3 hours per day. After graduating in May, he embarked on a mission to spread the contents of his course to a broader audience. Through school assemblies, workshops, and consulting, he has worked with over 500 students and parents to raise awareness about the addictive potential of our devices, drive conversations around digital wellness, and deliver practical strategies to build healthy digital habits. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community.

600 Veirs Mill Rd., Rockville, MD 20852

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Junie B. Jones, The Musical

St. Mary's School presents

Junie B. Jones

The Musical!

Join us in supporting our annual Spring Musical.

The event will be held in the school's auditorium on:

Friday April 26th @ 7pm

Saturday April 27th @ 7pm

Sunday April 28th @ 2pm

Purchase tickets and refreshments now!

 

Thank you for attending!

Please consider donations or sponsorships for the musical!

600 Veirs Mill Rd., Rockville, MD 20852

Phone (301) 762-4179

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Pillar 5 - Facilities

St. Mary’s School will update the current school facilities in order to provide a more modern and competitive look for current and prospective families.

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The best way to apologize (according to science)

Explore what to do— and not to do— in order to deliver an authentic apology and make amends in a variety of situations.

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Over the years, people have come up with some truly awful apologies. From classic non-apologies, to evasive excuses, and flimsy corporate promises, it’s all too easy to give a bad apology. Good apologies generally share certain elements, and considering these factors can help you make amends in a variety of situations. Explore what to do— and not to do— in order to deliver an authentic apology.

Directed by Vitalii Nebelskyi, and action agency.

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Pillar 4 - Governance

St. Mary’s School will have dedicated, proactive, and expert administrators, faculty, and parents planning and working for the current and future spiritual, instructional, and managerial success of the school.

600 Veirs Mill Rd., Rockville, MD 20852

Phone (301) 762-4179

Fax (301) 762-9550

Website

Pillar 3 - Enrollment

St. Mary’s School will establish, maintain, and improve upon approaches to increase enrollment with an emphasis on affordability and accessibility.

600 Veirs Mill Rd., Rockville, MD 20852

Phone (301) 762-4179

Fax (301) 762-9550

Website

Easter Vigil Mass 2024 | Holy Saturday | Cardinal Gregory | Washington, ...

As we near the culmination of Holy Week 2024 and begin the celebration of Easter, The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Washington invites you to join us via Livestream on Saturday, March 30, at 8:00 PM EDT as Wilton Cardinal Gregory, Archbishop of Washington, celebrates Holy Saturday's Easter Vigil in the Holy Night of Easter Mass from The Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle in Washington, DC, United States of America. This Vigil Mass will be celebrated in English and Spanish.

600 Veirs Mill Rd., Rockville, MD 20852

Phone (301) 762-4179

Fax (301) 762-9550

Website

Pillar 2 - Academic Excellence

Pillar 2 - Academic Excellence

St. Mary’s School will offer an effective curriculum program (both academic and extracurricular) in line with Archdiocese of Washington’s requirements that addresses the students’ needs for personal growth, fulfillment, and preparedness for life.

600 Veirs Mill Rd., Rockville, MD 20852

Phone (301) 762-4179

Fax (301) 762-9550

Website

Pillar 1 - Catholic Identity

Pillar 1 - Catholic Identity

St. Mary’s School provides a Christ-centered learning environment that provides the opportunity for spiritual growth, strengthens the bonds with our Catholic community, and produces students who realize their full potential as children of God.

600 Veirs Mill Rd., Rockville, MD 20852

Phone (301) 762-4179

Fax (301) 762-9550

Website

Happy Easter

Happy Easter To You.

600 Veirs Mill Rd., Rockville, MD 20852

Phone (301) 762-4179

Fax (301) 762-9550

Website

How to Make Learning as Addictive as Social Media | Luis Von Ahn | TED

When technologist Luis von Ahn was building the popular language-learning platform Duolingo, he faced a big problem: Could an app designed to teach you something ever compete with addictive platforms like Instagram and TikTok? He explains how Duolingo harnesses the psychological techniques of social media and mobile games to get you excited to learn — all while spreading access to education across the world.

600 Veirs Mill Rd., Rockville, MD 20852

Phone (301) 762-4179

Fax (301) 762-9550

Website

St. Mary's Strategic Plan

The current St. Mary's Strategic five year strategic plan was created in the 2017-2018 school year.  It is the result of feedback, research and hard work of school administration, parents, staff, students and parishioners.  This is a living plan that will be updated as goals are accomplished and new goals added.  The plan aligns with the Archdiocese of Washington Plan.

600 Veirs Mill Rd., Rockville, MD 20852

Phone (301) 762-4179

Fax (301) 762-9550

Website

About Us

St. Mary’s Catholic School is an educational institution affiliated with the Archdiocese of Washington. The school was founded in 1951 by the Sisters of Mercy and is an integral part of St. Mary’s Parish. As a parochial school, our aim has been to educate the whole child through a rigorous program that focuses on faith, academics, and service. The school is coeducational and serves approximately 175 students from preschool through grade 8.

The focus of our school is to provide a nurturing Christ-centered academic environment striving to meet the individual needs of our students. Our faith in Jesus Christ and His Church is expressed in formal religion classes, in the integration of that faith commitment in all subject areas, and in the embodiment of Christian living in our daily lives. Students are encouraged to spread the Gospel message of Jesus Christ through service to others within the school community, the parish, and the local and global communities through various outreach programs.

St. Mary’s School strives to build a strong foundation of academic skills and knowledge in our students and to enkindle a lifelong love of learning. Emphasis is placed on the importance of student development in spiritual, personal, and social growth. The students are encouraged to cultivate a sense of personal responsibility and self-discipline. Positive self-esteem is fostered through the personal achievement of objectives that are suitable for each unique student. St. Mary’s goal is to graduate well-educated young men and women imbued with Christian values and high moral standards.

Conveniently located in the heart of the City of Rockville, St. Mary’s School is a community of families that value the teachings of the Catholic Church and a strong academic curriculum. St. Mary’s School is a great place to grow!

600 Veirs Mill Rd., Rockville, MD 20852

Phone (301) 762-4179

Fax (301) 762-9550

Website

Improving early child development with words: Dr. Brenda Fitzgerald at T...

Dr. Brenda Fitzgerald is leveraging the simple practice of talking to babies and toddlers to nourish their brains and set them up for better performance in school and life.

600 Veirs Mill Rd., Rockville, MD 20852

Phone (301) 762-4179

Fax (301) 762-9550

Website

Volunteer Information

Find More Information, HERE.

600 Veirs Mill Rd., Rockville, MD 20852

Phone (301) 762-4179

Fax (301) 762-9550

Website

For Inquiries Please Contact Us

600 Veirs Mill Rd., Rockville, MD 20852

Phone (301) 762-4179

Fax (301) 762-9550

Website

Planting the Seeds of Success in Your Kids (Part 1) - Dr. Kevin Leman

Parents often have misplaced dreams for their kids – focusing on things and achievements instead of focusing on building their character. In his new book, 8 Secrets to Raising Successful Kids, Dr. Leman helps parents place emphasis on WHO their children will become instead of WHAT they become. He offers time-tested solutions for parenting that will help moms and dads plant the seeds of patience, kindness, humility, thankfulness, and respect in their children, as they prepare them for adulthood. 

His strategies include starting with the end in mind, expecting the best from your children, modeling a disciplined life, minimizing friction, while optimizing solutions, and keeping the relationship first. The broadcast, recorded with a live audience, encourages parents to examine their parenting style and transform their thinking to get successful results with their kids.

600 Veirs Mill Rd., Rockville, MD 20852

Phone (301) 762-4179

Fax (301) 762-9550

Website

Alumni, See What is Happening

See Whats Happening

600 Veirs Mill Rd., Rockville, MD 20852

Phone (301) 762-4179

Fax (301) 762-9550

Website