Jr. Kindergarten & Kindergarten
A thoughtfully designed early learning program for curious young learners.
Children are guided through SAA's Junior Kindergarten and Kindergarten programs by faculty who are uniquely trained to manage the diverse interests, talents and developmental stages present amongst four-to six-year-old children.
SAA welcomes students from nearby neighborhoods and throughout the Chicagoland area, drawn to our unique approach to early learning and our warm, supportive community in Des Plaines, Illinois.
Why Families Choose SAA for Early Learning
At Science & Arts Academy, our Early Learning program is thoughtfully designed to meet bright and curious young children where they are—academically, socially, and emotionally. Families choose SAA because our teachers understand the unique learning paths of young children and provide instruction that is matched to each child’s readiness. With a curriculum that balances structure and play, children build confidence while developing essential skills across academic and creative areas. Small class sizes and a low teacher-to-student ratio ensure each child is seen, supported, and encouraged. From the very beginning, students become part of a warm, welcoming community that nurtures curiosity, fosters independence, and inspires a lifelong love of learning.
Junior Kindergarten
Our half-day and full-day Junior Kindergarten programs, designed for 4-year olds, offer enriching and engaging learning experiences designed to encourage student curiosity and exploration. Curricular highlights include:
- Building early literacy and language skills
- Developing number sense and math readiness
- Exploring the world through scientific discovery
- Learning about community and the world around us
- Expressing creativity through art, drama, and music classes
- Building gross motor skills in physical education classes
- Exploring new languages with exposure to French and Spanish
- Growing social skills and emotional awareness
Instruction is differentiated to nurture individual strengths, interests, and developmental readiness levels.
Eligibility
Children must be 4 years old by September 1 (of the application year) to be eligible for Junior Kindergarten.
IQ testing is not required for Junior Kindergarten applicants.
Admissions
Rolling admission for Junior Kindergarten continues at SAA throughout the school year as space allows. Schedule an admissions meeting or campus tour to learn more »
IQ Testing is not required for Junior Kindergarten applicants.
Junior KindergartenProgram Options
Option 1:
Full-Day Junior Kindergarten Monday-Friday
8:30 am - 3:30 pm
Option 2:
Half-Day Junior Kindergarten Monday-Friday
8:30 am - 12:00 pm
Kindergarten
Our full-day Kindergarten program for 5-year olds builds a solid academic foundation in a supportive environment alongside intellectually like-minded peers. Highlights include:
- Strengthening reading, writing, and literacy skills
- Deepening understanding of numbers, numerical patterns, and early problem-solving
- Engaging in hands-on scientific investigations and asking big questions
- Expanding knowledge of communities, cultures, and global connections
- Developing artistic techniques and creative expression in art, drama, and music classes
- Enhancing coordination, teamwork, and gross motor skills in physical education classes
- Building language skills through French and Spanish instruction
- Practicing empathy, self-regulation, and collaboration with peers
Throughout the day, students are encouraged to ask questions, think critically, and work both independently and with others — all while being appropriately challenged and supported at their own level.
Eligibility
Children must be 5 years old by September 1 (of the application year) to be eligible for Kindergarten.
IQ testing is not required, but applicants should demonstrate natural curiosity and enthusiasm for learning.
Admissions
Rolling admission for Kindergarten continues at SAA throughout the school year as space allows. Schedule an admissions meeting or campus tour to learn more »
Tuition
Half-Day Jr. Kindergarten: $1,610 per month*
Full-Day Jr. Kindergarten: $2,670 per month*
Kindergarten: $2,670 per month*
*Multiple payment plans offered with finance fees varying by plan.
Need-Based Scholarship are available. Learn more »
