Kindergarten

Welcome to Kindergarten at All Saints Academy

Inclusive Learning for Every Child

In Miss Courtney Ducasse’s classroom, every student is welcomed, celebrated, and supported regardless of their abilities. With six years of early childhood experience—including work as a paraprofessional and lead teacher—Miss Ducasse creates a warm, structured environment where children build confidence, celebrate their unique backgrounds, and grow both academically and spiritually.

A Structured & Balanced Daily Routine

Our daily schedule combines active hands-on learning, independent practice, and key academic foundations:

• Morning Routine: Unpacking, morning work, daily prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, and interactive social play.

• Circle Time & Core Literacy: Focus on foundational reading skills, letter recognition, phonics sounds, and blending.

• Math & Discovery: Practice with basic number formation, early addition and subtraction concepts, and interactive graphing through daily weather tracking.

• Specials & Enrichment: Dedicated time for specials, science, social studies, and religion.

Celebrating Culture & Diversity

We place a special emphasis on helping students explore who they are as individuals and learn about the diverse backgrounds of their classmates:

• Cultural Exploration: Daily spotlights on different countries, traditions, and music representing the heritage of our students.

• Multilingual & Peer Support: Supportive environment for bilingual learners, utilizing classroom translation support and visual tools so every child feels connected.

• Fun Traditions: Special birthday celebrations featuring our classroom mascot, Hamish Jr. the Highland cow, who spends the day at the birthday student's desk!

"In my classroom, everyone is welcome regardless of their abilities. That's how I was raised to be, and that's how I want to raise these kids to learn to be in the classroom too."

— Miss Courtney Ducasse

Hands-On Learning over Screen Time

While technology like the SMART Board is used intentionally for interactive visual lessons, science platforms (like Inquisitive), and cultural music, we strongly prioritize tactile, hands-on learning:

• Mini Whiteboards: Used daily for fun, active letter and number formation practice.

• Interactive Engagement: Frequent movement and physical worksheets to help concepts stick.

• Print Literacy: Reassuring students that books remain our primary source of knowledge and discovery.

Faith & Character Development

Guided by the standards of the Archdiocese of Hartford, faith is woven naturally into our school day:

• Daily Prayer & Scripture: Daily Bible verses, grace before meals, and daily classroom prayers.

• Faith Foundations: Learning about sacred traditions, cathedrals, feast days, and exploring Christian values like kindness and compassion.

• Daily Inspiration: A reminder of God's love and presence in our daily choices, encouraging students to be good stewards of their community.