St. John Bosco Academy

     CGS originated in Rome in the 1950’s by two Catholic lay women, one, a biblical scholar, and the other, a trained Montessori teacher.  Their method is now being used in 37 countries world wide.  It has been approved by the Diocese of Boise and is enthusiastically encouraged by our Bishop, Peter Christiansen, for catechesis at the preschool level.

     Combining Montessori principals and Catholic doctrine, CGS enables children to experience the Gospel in a way that is sensitive to their developmental needs and their inherent desire for discovery through the senses.   Through hands-on activities, the young child learns about the person of Jesus: His life, death, and resurrection.  They hear his teachings by pondering the parables, and experience how the Church lives out those teachings within the liturgy and the sacraments.  

     In lieu of a classroom, CGS uses a space called an Atrium.  The Atrium is a place of learning, but more importantly, a place of prayer and reflection for the young child.       The space is filled with beautiful, real, child-sized items made by members of the community.  Within the atrium the young child learns to slow down their movements; to practice stillness and silence.   These activities prepare their young hearts, minds, and bodies for sustained concentration and ultimately contemplation as they come to know and love Jesus, the Good Shepherd.  

     St. John Bosco Academy students in Preschool through 2nd grade spend time weekly in the atrium.  CGS is also offered to the community for those children not enrolled at Summit Academy.  Catechesis of the Good Shepherd began at St. John Bosco Academy in 2016 and training and setup is currently ongoing for Level II, which will serve children up to 9 years old.

     Mrs. Julie Sonnen serves as the lead teacher for atrium sessions.   St. John Bosco Academy also has several trained parents who are able to serve as assistants in the atrium.

     Please contact the office at 208-962-5650 to register your child for Catechesis of the Good Shepherd.  Sessions are offered several times per week.