What some may call “extracurriculars,” the enrichment activities at St. James Preschool are part of the curricular program. Thanks to the fundraising efforts of our generous community, these are offered to all, at no extra charge.
Nature Connections
Lauryn grew up in a lemon grove in Southern California and, since childhood, has felt that all trees are friends. This kinship with Nature (and love of wildflowers and stars) guided her to both play and teach in the outdoors. Lauryn has worked in the field of outdoor education since 2005, with children of all ages. She studied Education and Art at CSU Monterey Bay, she holds a Child Development Master Teacher permit, is a Wilderness First Responder, and has trained in yoga instruction for children and adults. Lauryn creates and leads programs for young learners in the Marin Headlands and beyond. She has garnered experience from multiple outdoor schools, preschool classrooms, and lots of adventures. Lauryn enjoys arts and crafts, reading, sauntering on trails, cuddling with her pup, and sharing her love of Nature with children (and everyone else!)
Music with Teacher Barb
Barbara Murphy, better known as Teacher Barb, is a highly respected and sought after music teacher of young children. Many years ago, we invited her to teach music to St. James Preschool children in our classrooms, and we couldn’t imagine our days without her infectious energy. In addition to weekly classes, she produces our delightful holiday sing-along and graduation concerts. Learn more about Teacher Barb here.
Great Books Project
SJP’s Great Books Project supports families in their efforts to spark an interest in books and the motivation to read. This home-lending library sends each child home every two weeks with a tote bag of books. By the end of the school year, children and their parents are exposed to approximately 50 exemplary picture books, with a focus on hidden gems and worthy titles from the last decade or so.
Playball
St. James Preschool has long aimed to provide high-quality and age-appropriate “movement” education to our children by bringing in outside specialists. While playing games, children develop balance and coordination, build confidence, and improve their social skills. We are pleased to have Coach Steve handling this important role. Learn more about Playball here.
"I love that my son gets to go on hikes with naturalists, work on his coordination with a physEd specialist, and shake, rattle and roll with the best music teacher in town — all without me having to enroll him in extra afternoon and weekend classes. It’s just part of a regular school week at St. James."
St. James Parent
