Kindergarten: Curiosity and Discovery
Maryknoll's Kindergarten experience begins with a simple belief: strong readers become strong learners. From the first day of school, students are immersed in language-rich classrooms where phonics, reading, writing, storytelling, and communication are woven throughout the day. Teachers partner closely with families to ensure each child develops the confidence, skills, and love of learning that form the foundation for success in elementary school and beyond.
A love for learning starts young.
A hallmark of the Kindergarten experience is our commitment to early literacy development. Through our Phonics Plus curriculum and engaging language-rich activities, students build essential reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills that foster a lifelong love of learning. Storytelling, vocabulary development, guided reading, and hands-on literacy experiences help children become confident communicators and successful readers.
As a Catholic school, faith is woven into daily life and learning. Students learn about God's love through prayer, song, scripture, and age-appropriate religious instruction while developing values such as kindness, respect, gratitude, and service to others.
Parents of Kindergarten students may choose from two distinct instructional pathways:
- Traditional English Instruction Program: A comprehensive English-language curriculum that builds strong foundational skills in literacy, mathematics, science, religion, and social-emotional learning.
- Mandarin Immersion Program: The first Mandarin language immersion program in Hawaiʻi, offered during the regular school day. Following a 50/50 instructional model, students learn in both Mandarin and English, developing language proficiency while mastering the same core academic standards as their peers.
Across both programs, students are encouraged to explore, question, and discover the world around them. Hands-on learning experiences in science and mathematics cultivate curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Structured classroom routines, paired with opportunities for independent exploration, help children develop responsibility, confidence, and positive social skills as they transition into elementary school.
Additional highlights of the Kindergarten experience include participation in our beloved Big & Little Brothers & Sisters Program, which pairs Kindergarten students with sixth-grade mentors throughout the year; Project Lead The Way (PLTW), our nationally recognized STEM curriculum; and enrichment classes in art, music, physical education, and library studies, providing students with a well-rounded educational experience.
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Amelia '36
Read MoreKindergarten is a significant milestone, full of new opportunities for learning and uncertainty about new faces and expectations.
Contact
Mrs. Gwen Sagapolutele
Elementary Dean, Grades PK–5
Office Hours: 7:15 am – 3:30 pm
Phone: (808) 952-7100
Email: gradeschool@maryknollschool.org
