Austin Catholic Schools is currently accepting kindergarten registrations for the 2009-2010 school year. The school is located in the St. Augustine school building at 405 Fourth Ave. N.W.

The kindergarten offers a full-day program where students experience spiritual and intellectual growth. The program is more then just reading, writing and arithmetic. Each day begins with a prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance. Weekly Mass, daily religious instruction and integration of the FISH Philosophy, a character education program, enable our students to learn about their faith and family values. The Christian based all-day kindergarten program provides small classroom sizes and a safe learning environment for the students.

Classes are held Monday through Friday. This all-day, full-day (8 a.m. to 2:35 p.m.) program has been in place for the past five years. Having a full hour-longer school day then what is currently offered in other kindergarten programs allows the students more time for learning. This also allows the school to still hold classes on late start days and half-days.

ACS’ kindergarten program has been ahead of the times by providing Spanish in the classroom for the past five years. Their curriculum also emphasizes reading and number readiness, language development (VoWac and visual phonics), creative arts and music, health and physical education. These are essential ingredients of the kindergarten program.

Quality learning experiences are integrated in the classroom and students take part in service opportunities, where they learn the importance of caring for others. The children learn how to use the school library, where they are read to and are able to find that special book to take home. The children have weekly computer time, where they begin to learn keyboarding skills and basic computer operations. There is a nutritious, low-cost hot lunch program and also an after-school “Kidstime” day care program available.

Graduates of ACS’ kindergarten classes have an easier transition into first grade because of the comprehensive program. For a tour of our schools or for more information, call 433-8859.