Primary Learning Community K-2
Students in kindergarten through 2nd Grade develop reading and writing skills, and solidify their foundational math skills while developing critical thinking, creativity, and social skills. In Religion class, students learn about God’s love, moral decision making, and giving thanks to God for our blessings as they prepare to make the Sacraments of Reconciliation and First Communion in 2nd Grade. A supportive and nurturing learning environment helps students’ spiritual, academic, social, emotional, and physical development. Teachers use an array of instructional strategies and differentiate their instruction to meet the needs of all learners.
Primary Learning Highlights
Kindergarten
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Host the Volunteer Breakfast and Mass
- 8th Grade Mass Buddies
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Kindergarten Star of the Week
1st Grade
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Fall Pumpkin Farm Field Trip
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6th Grade Mass Buddies
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Classroom “pet”. Each student gets to take home for a weekend and write about their adventures
2nd Grade
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Sacramental preparation and celebration of First Reconciliation and First Communion
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7th Grade Mass Buddies
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Field Trips to the Zoo and Pumpkin Patch
Meet Our Primary Learning Team
Our team at Saint Mary School is committed to nurturing the minds and souls of our students. With a strong focus on academic excellence and spiritual growth, our educators strive to instill values of compassion, integrity, and service in each child.
Mrs. Peggy Schott
Preschool Instructional Assistant
Primary (K-2)
This is my 4th year at Saint Mary School. The teachers, students, and families are wonderful! Nothing brings me greater joy than to see all the growth in each student and the smiles on their faces.
Mrs. Suzanne Walzer
1st Grade Teacher
Primary (K-2)
I teach to inspire students to exceed their learning goals while instilling the highest level of character formation, using differentiation to ensure every learner can be successful. I want to ignite an intrinsic passion for learning with an academic focus complemented by stellar social and emotional growth. My favorite part of SMS is the supportive and values driven community.
Mrs. Ellen Laffredo
Kindergarten Teacher
Primary (K-2)
elaffredo@stmarybg.org
This is my first year teaching at Saint Mary. I am beyond excited to join the Saint Mary community, become part of a new team, and continue growing as an educator. I can’t wait to bring my enthusiasm, creativity, and love for Jesus into my classroom while continuing to teach the age group that I love so much. I love watching the students grow in their faith and in their learning!
Mrs. Susan McGready
2nd Grade Teacher
Primary (K-2)
smcgready@stmarybg.org
This is my first year teaching at Saint Mary. Second grade is the best place to be! My passion has always been preparing my students for the sacraments. I feel blessed to be a partner with our faith community in preparing children to receive Jesus for the first time!
