Academics

Early Childhood

Bright Beginnings

Early childhood education is the key to a successful future. Our early childhood programs are developmentally appropriate, challenging and uniquely designed for young girls. 

Our expert teachers guide the girls through literacy development, number sense, social and gross motor skill development, creative movement and exploration in the outdoor classroom. Our top-notch facilities feature bright, airy, open spaces designed for how girls learn best.

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Early Childhood Highlights

List of 3 items.

  • Expert Faculty

    Early Learners and Junior Kindergarten teachers are experts in girls' education and specialize in the foundational years. They know how to spark young minds and foster joy in learning that will serve them well as they grow. 

  • Flexibility and Customization

    We have the flexibility to meet the needs of each child and each class, customizing the teaching and learning with hands-on projects that incorporate the interests and curiosities of the girls. 

  • Outdoor Classroom

    We bring learning outdoors with a special area designed to spark learning in young children. Our outdoor classroom allows for daily exploration throughout the seasons. 

Early Childhood Programs

List of 2 items.

  • Early Learners (3+)

    • Full-day (8 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday - Thursday and 8 a.m.-2:15 p.m. on Fridays) 
    • After-school care is available until 6 p.m. 
    • Students must be at least age 3 by September 30 of the entering school year
    • Students must be toilet trained

  • Junior Kindergarten (4+)

    • Full-day (8 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday - Thursday and 8 a.m.-2:15 p.m. on Fridays)
    • After-school care available until 6 p.m. through Extended Day at St. Christopher's
    • Students must be at least age 4 by September 30 of the entering school year

Meet the Team

List of 6 members.

  • Photo of Annie Kapetanis

    Annie Kapetanis 

    Head of Lower School and Early Childhood
    804-288-2804 ext. 3064
  • Photo of Gina Friend

    Gina Friend 

    Assistant Head of Lower School; Lower School AEB Coordinator
    804-288-2804 ext. 3090
  • Photo of Sara Waechter

    Sara Waechter 

    Assistant Head of Early Childhood
    804-288-2804 ext. 3116
  • Photo of Katherine Cockerham

    Katherine Cockerham 

    Lower School Office Manager
    804-288-2804 ext. 3037
  • Photo of Christina Green

    Christina Green 

    Lower School Administrative Assistant
    804-288-2804 ext. 3082
  • Photo of Adrienne Taylor

    Adrienne Taylor 

    Associate Director of Admissions, Lower School (Early Learners - Grade 4)
    804-288-2804 ext. 3078

Let's Get Started

The best way to get started is to come to St. Catherine’s for a campus tour, to catch a glimpse of School life, to meet our teachers and to see teaching and learning up close.
6001 Grove Avenue
Richmond, Virginia 23226
804-288-2804
Located in the heart of Richmond, Virginia, St. Catherine’s School is a private, all-girls pre-K, kindergarten, elementary, middle and high school. We provide a well-rounded educational experience for girls from communities across Richmond, Chesterfield, Henrico and all of central Virginia. St.Catherine’s all-girls educational experience is rooted in more than a century of history and tradition. From our revolutionary past to our dynamic present, St. Catherine’s has always focused on preparing students for a boundless future.