St. Matthew’s Expands ​​Early Childhood Program to Age 2

St. Matthew’s is excited to announce a significant milestone in its evolution, writing a new chapter in its rich 75-year history. Beginning in fall 2026, Little Falcons – the 2-year-old program – will become the official enrollment entry point to St. Matthew’s Parish School, creating a seamless educational journey from age 2 through 8th grade. What began as an auxiliary program has now evolved into an integral part of our School community. 

What makes this new entry grade expansion particularly meaningful is the continuity it provides. Families who join in Little Falcons become part of one consistent community; a community that knows their child, challenges them, and celebrates every milestone from their first steps in learning through middle school success. “Children in Little Falcons have always embodied the spirit of St. Matthew’s—curious, joyful, and ready to soar. Making it the official beginning means those children and families will build the strong foundation, friendships, and sense of belonging that make our community so special, right from the start,” says Kristin Sigala, Director of Early Childhood.

Little Falcons is a five-day-per-week program for children who are two years old by August 1 of the year they will apply. This addition to the Early Childhood division provides a safe and positive transition from parent-toddler activities to the greater independence of preschool. In addition to the three-hour morning program, families can choose an extended afternoon experience filled with enriching activities including Spanish, Music, Yoga and Mindfulness, Art, and Cooking.

“Little Falcons has experienced remarkable growth over the past five years. The addition of a second classroom and enrollment numbers now on par with our other Early Childhood programs reflect both the program’s success and the community’s trust. Our academic data consistently shows that students who start with us in Little Falcons rank among the top performers in their class,” shares Head of School, Alley Michelson, an alum–Class of 2002.

This new entry grade aligns beautifully with St. Matthew’s return to its Pacific Palisades campus in fall 2026, allowing the School to welcome its youngest Falcons into their permanent home from the very beginning of their educational journey. The Early Childhood program, encompassing Little Falcons, Preschool, and PreKindergarten, will occupy new temporary classrooms with age-appropriate playgrounds seamlessly integrated into the campus until new permanent structures are built. These future facilities will honor the School’s history while creating cutting-edge learning environments for generations to come. For more about our return to the Palisades, visit here.

From age two through 8th grade, the St. Matthew’s experience represents educational excellence at its finest. Ready to begin your future Falcon’s journey? St. Matthew’s Parish School is now accepting applications for the 2026-2027 school year. We invite you to visit St. Matthew’s today by clicking here.