Children that turn 4 years old by September 1 may participate in our Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) program. The program is a three hours class, typically starting from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
*Tuition for this program is covered by state funding. http://www.vpkhelp.org/?page_id=3366 Fees apply for additional care for before and after the regularly scheduled Pre-Kindergarten time frame and for field trips.
VPK or Prekindergarten is a time when children are making connections between what they know and what they are learning.
The Creative curriculum is developmentally appropriate and designed to provide your child with a foundation in early literacy, mathematics, and developmental skills. This will ensure that he or she performs successfully in kindergarten. Our curriculum is approved by the Early Learning Coalition and the Department of Children and Families.
Each week the children concentrate on a specific theme which allows them to explore a variety of ideas and concepts. Our goal is to provide each child with the best learning opportunity while still maintaining a fun environment. The program is designed to enhance your child’s individual developmental skill level, and promote a positive learning experience. Children initiate active learning experiences, in addition to activities initiated by the teacher. All activities are hands-on and lessons are developed to foster each child’s individual needs. We encourage parental involvement as we believe it takes a village to raise each child which makes it absolutely beneficial for each child to thrive.
The class is staffed with an accredited teacher. The classroom is limited to 11 students which allows for individual attention and a more focused learning. The classroom is set up in centers: science/math, writing, blocks, computer, art, manipulatives, puzzles, dramatic play, music, as well as a library. The classroom is supplied with age appropriate materials and furniture and of course, cots for napping. Individual cubby spaces help students gain independence by taking responsibility for their own belongings. The use of computers, enhanced vocabulary and language, phonological awareness, free expression in art, letter, number, and shape recognition, a positive self-concept, and responsibility are all examples of the activities done to aid each child in reaching their full potential and preparing for kindergarten. As they leave the world of preschool and head towards kindergarten, children are learning to participate in routines, demonstrate ability to make decisions, and plan ahead. The prekindergarten curriculum helps children continue to make decisions on their own and in the classroom.
Please note that field trips are also utilized as a part of the curriculum.
Additional tutoring is provided for reading through our local partner; Mentoring for Success. This program further ensures that you child will be prepared for the next step.
The class is given ample outside time to allow children to explore nature and their outside surroundings. It also promotes exercise with the use of their large motor skills. The children play on a secure play area which allows sufficient space for all activities.
A supply list is provided each year so that each child is able to reap the full benefits of the program. See Supply List here »