Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the most important criterion for acceptance into kindergarten?
The development and social readiness of the child is the key criterion for acceptance into kindergarten. By California law, kindergarteners must be five years old by September 1st.
Q: How is the developmental and social readiness of my kindergartener evaluated?
Children participate in a school readiness assessment during the application process prior to the start of the year in which they will be entering kindergarten. The kindergarten teacher and principal evaluate each child through observation, preschool recommendation and the assessment to determine their preparedness to begin school.
Q: What are enrichment classes and which grades take them?
All grades participate in the following enrichment classes: art, music, and PE. Grades TK-5 also participate in garden science and library, while grades 6-8 choose from a range of elective courses.
Q: What are Student Learning Expectations?
Student Learning Expectations, which were developed together by SPN parents, faculty and staff, are the essential character qualities we want our students to master by the time they graduate. They include being Respectful, Responsible, Reverent, and Life Long Learners.
Q: How does the school prepare students for the requirements of high school curriculum?
Curriculum at SPN is aligned to state standards and our middle school teachers are in contact with local high schools to ensure vertical integration of our curriculum. Additionally, the teachers promote responsibility and strong study skills
Q: What is the average class size?
Class sizes in Grades Kindergarten-Eight average 26 students per class and should not exceed 32 students. The Preschool has a maximum of #12 students, and TK has a maximum number of #16 students. Preschool through Grade 3 have full time Instructional Assistants, Grades 4-5 share an Instructional Assistant, and Middle School (Grades 6-8) has an additional specialized teacher for Science in addition to a Drama instructor for Electives.
Q: What electives are offered?
Middle School students take core classes which include religion, mathematics, science, social studies and language arts as well as enrichment classes in music, art, and PE. Students also choose from a selection of elective courses including: Robotics, Broadcasting, Drama, Art, Music, Public Speaking, Coding/Programming, and Academic Competition teams.
Q: How is technology used?
At SPN, technology enhances instruction. Technology is used to drive personalization, to enable connection to the broader world, and to give students voice and choice in how they learn and demonstrate their learning.