In the “home environment” setting, Immaculate Conception Pre-Kindergarten in Irvington prepares children for formal education using Montessori materials, according to Director Victor Presto. “We don’t consider ourselves a Montessori school,” said Presto. “We let the children explore with the materials.” Presto said that the children use things like counting sticks and other materials to explore and move at their own pace. They can explore and use whatever they’d like. The children also use dramatic play to dress up and assume different roles. “For the children to explore and be creative is so important,” explained Presto.
They also have the opportunity to dive into their musical talents. Joyce Ottinger, a teacher at Immaculate Conception, helps with music class. Joyce has worked with the Zurich Opera Company and performed concerts throughout Europe with I Solisti Veneti Orchestra.
The School has been transformed from a former rectory and residence into a pre-kindergarten. Presto added that this gives children a unique educational advantage when transitioning to a more formal school setting.
Although it is a faith-based Catholic school, students from any background are welcome. “We teach the basic concepts of kindness, respect and responsibility,” noted Presto.
The exit goal of Immaculate Conception is for children to become “happy readers and happy learners,” according to Kathy Bencivenga, the office manager. Presto summed it up by saying that at Immaculate Conception children receive a “caring, balanced introduction to formal education…play is integrated into learning and they leave well prepared [for future studies] .”
For more information about Immaculate Conception Pre-Kindergarten, call or visit online at 914-5917480 or http://home.catholicweb.com/iccirvington/
