Pre-K4 Program
The Pre-K4 Language Arts curriculum is designed so that each child can build an early literacy learning foundation for success in becoming a lifelong reader and writer.
Early literacy areas include the following:
Reading – concepts about print, phonological awareness, decoding and word fluency, vocabulary and concept development, structural features of information and technical materials, analysis of grade-level appropriate narratives.
Writing – writing process and application, handwriting, spelling.
Listening and Speaking – comprehension, oral communication, speaking applications.
Early literacy experiences serve as a foundation for learning across all subject areas. At Holy Cross, we take a cross-curricular approach that integrates Social Studies, Science, Math, Catholic Faith, Social Development, Work Habits, and Motor Skills into daily instruction.
Our program includes rich children’s literature, center-based learning, hands-on activities and manipulatives, experiments, and age-appropriate technology to engage young learners. Catholic Faith formation is guided by the Archdiocese of Washington curriculum and brought to life through our daily faith-filled classroom environment. Children are encouraged to explore, observe, ask questions, and engage with the world around them; fostering both curiosity and confidence in their learning journey.
In addition, Pre-K4 students enjoy an enriched curriculum that includes Music, Physical Education, Library, Technology, Spanish, and Art throughout their school week.
Our flexible program offers parents the choice of full-day from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm or half-day from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm, Monday through Friday. Full-day students are offered an afternoon rest period and after school care is available. We accept a maximum of 20 students with three experienced and dedicated full-time teachers. Students must be 4 years of age by August 31st of their incoming year and are required to be proficient in their bathroom skills.
Teacher: Teresa Overly
Teresa Overly earned her degree from the University of Maryland and later received a Master of Education from Marymount University. She began her career at Holy Cross in 2002 as a Pre-K assistant and soon became the lead teacher for the four-year-old program.
Mrs. Overly considers her years at Holy Cross a true blessing and is committed to fostering a faith-filled early childhood environment. She was honored as Teacher of the Year by the Knights of Columbus Rock Creek Council in 2007–2008 and currently serves on the school’s Leadership Team and as the faculty representative on the School Advisory Board.
Teacher: Mary Simmonds
Mary Simmonds earned her Bachelor of Arts in English Writing from Marist College, with minors in Creative Writing and Music (Vocal Performance). She joined the Holy Cross staff in 2021.
While in college, Miss Simmonds volunteered with local Catholic schools and programs like Book Buddies, supporting early literacy. A product of Catholic education herself, she is excited to be part of the Holy Cross community and is passionate about fostering a love of learning and literacy in the classroom.
Teaching Assistant: Sandra Palacios
Mrs. Sandra Palacios joined the staff of Holy Cross in 2025. Mrs. Palacios holds a BA and MS from Universidad Politecnico Grancolombiano, Bogota, Colombia. She grew up attending Catholic schools from elementary school through college. She taught PreK and substitute taught at Holy Redeemer, Kensington. Mrs. Palacios enjoys family time and walks with her dog. She loves working with our students and being part of a supportive community.