After years of consulting with families on school options, I’ve seen what makes a difference in early education. Academic performance matters, but it’s rarely the only deciding factor. Parents want an environment that supports strong values, community involvement, and well-rounded development. That’s exactly why I recommend considering a Private Preschool like the one at St. Mary’s School. When you weigh what they offer compared to other private schools in Peoria or Dunlap, the difference is clear.
Why I Recommend St. Mary’s School
I focus on long-term outcomes. When I evaluate schools, I look for balance across academic excellence, character education, and family involvement. St. Mary’s School offers a faith-based program that goes beyond core subjects. Their 12:1 student-to-teacher ratio shows a clear commitment to individual support. That’s important because you want your child to be seen, heard, and guided at every stage.
Their curriculum isn’t just about textbooks. It includes real-world themes like agriculture, technology, and physical education. That CONNECTed approach reflects the school’s ability to keep education relevant while still holding onto traditional values. For me, that’s a strong signal that they understand how to prepare students for modern challenges without losing sight of what matters most.
Early Childhood Programs that Build Strong Foundations
If you’re looking at preschool or kindergarten options, early development is key. It’s not just about learning ABCs or basic math. Children need emotional support, confidence building, and social interaction. St. Mary’s understands this and has built their preschool and kindergarten programs to reflect those needs. Structured learning is balanced with play and faith-based teaching, which helps develop curiosity and independence without overwhelming young learners.
I’ve seen a lot of programs that either push too hard or stay too loose. St. Mary’s strikes the right balance. They focus on both structured routines and creative expression, which I believe is essential at this age. And because their program is grounded in Catholic values, the moral framework is built in from the start.
Character and Community Development
Another area where St. Mary’s stands out is their approach to building character. Honesty, compassion, respect—these aren’t just classroom posters, they’re part of the curriculum. I’ve always believed that teaching values is just as important as teaching facts. This school does both consistently.
They also foster a strong connection between school and home. Parents are encouraged to participate in school events and classroom activities. That kind of collaboration helps keep everyone on the same page and reinforces what students are learning. Plus, when families share similar values, it builds a stronger community around the child.
Academic Excellence With Real Accountability
Academic growth should always be monitored, and St. Mary’s uses tools like the NWEA/MAP assessments to do that. These tools provide detailed insights into a student’s progress, which allows teachers to make informed decisions. It shows that they aren’t relying on outdated benchmarks or assumptions. They’re actively adjusting to meet the needs of their students.
Teachers also collaborate to review and refine how they teach. That level of professional engagement is something I look for. It tells me that they’re not just following a script. They’re thinking about how to deliver the best possible education for each student.
Strong Extracurricular Opportunities
Education doesn’t end at the classroom door. I always ask about extracurriculars, because they show how much a school values the whole child. St. Mary’s offers band, art, theater, sports, and chess club. These aren’t just filler activities. They give students a chance to explore different interests, work in teams, and build confidence.
Student council is another strong option. It allows older students to develop leadership skills and learn about responsibility. These types of programs help students grow into people who can lead with integrity.
Why This Matters for Your Family
Choosing the right school is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your child. I always advise families to look for more than just academics. Consider the values. Look at the faculty. Pay attention to how they treat parents. Based on all of that, St. Mary’s consistently ranks at the top of my recommendations.
They offer a complete, structured, and thoughtful educational experience. From preschool through eighth grade, the focus is on building capable, ethical, and well-rounded students. You’ll find plenty of private schools in Peoria and Dunlap, but few combine community, faith, academics, and character the way St. Mary’s does.