Saint Charles
Early Childhood Education Center
"Sharing in the Wonder of God's Creation"
Meet the Specials Teachers
CGS
Music
MR.HARRISON
Music Teacher
With a rich background in music and education, Justin Harrison brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to our preschool community. Holding a Bachelor’s degree from Morgan State University and a Master’s in Opera from the University of Maryland, College Park, Justin has performed internationally in diverse locations including Cuba, Italy, Argentina, Spain, and Portugal.
For the past five years, Justin has dedicated himself to teaching music, currently serving as a music educator at Northwestern High School and St. John Evangelist Catholic School. Additionally, he contributes his expertise as a Choral Assistant at Grace Episcopal Church in Silver Spring.
Outside of teaching, Justin enjoys staying active through powerlifting and experimenting with new hairstyles. His passion for music and commitment to nurturing young minds make him a valuable asset to our preschool team.
MRS. SIMKOVSKY
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd
Margaret Simkovsky – Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS) Raised in Colorado, Margaret received her undergraduate degree from the University of Notre Dame, and graduate degrees from Washington University in St. Louis. Margaret is certified as a CGS catechist and has taught at three levels (ages 3-6, 6-9, and 9-12) and is a certified Montessori teaching assistant. She became a volunteer catechist at St. Charles when her daughter was three, 22 years ago. After her own children completed the program, she worked as a catechist at Our Lady of Good Counsel parish in Vienna, later returning to St. Charles Preschool. Margaret is committed to the CGS philosophy which recognizes that “there is (already) a deep bond between God and the child which produces in the child the desire to draw nearer to God.” The Atrium provides a special space and hands-on learning in the Montessori tradition to help children fall in love with God for a lifetime.
CGS
P.E.
COACH MICHAEL
P.E.
Coach Michael has been the PE Teacher since 2018 and is going into his 7th year as an Arlington Diocese employee. He has also been a Professional Multi-Sport Coach for over 5 years. His unique, age-specific curriculum is designed to promote student health, foster socialization skills, build self-confidence, and provide multiple fun activities by creating a conducive learning environment that encourages expression and a love for physical activities. Coach Michael strives to provide positive and high-quality multi-sports opportunities for students of all skill levels.
Chapel
Lead Teachers
Chapel Class
Each preschool class has the opportunity to visit the school chapel once a week with their classroom teacher during the school year. In this consecrated space the children become comfortable with some of the facets of going to church and attending Mass. The children can easily see the altar and candles, the tabernacle and statues, and they learn to sit quietly and respectfully. Teachers usually read child-friendly Bible stories or other books about the wonder of God’s creation. During the seasons of Advent and Lent, Mrs. Baney meets with each class for prayer and lessons about how we prepare ourselves for Christmas and Easter, respectively.