Learning Goals
By the end of kindergarten, children…

Personal and Social Development:
-Respect and work cooperatively with other students;
-Demonstrate increasing independence with self-help and organizational skills;
-Maintain a positive self-image;
-Manage interpersonal conflict appropriately;
-Become excited about learning and an active member of the school community;
-Be able to listen and follow directions.

Language Arts:
-Develop reading skills and habits that help children understand the print-sound code and make meaning from text;
-Develop writing skills and habits that enable children to write often and fluently and understand written language use and conventions;
-Demonstrate listening comprehension and ability to articulate feelings and ideas.

Math:
-Understand number concepts;
-Recognize and use multidimensional shapes;
-Use counting to collect data, sort and classify objects;
-Recognize, describe, create and extend patterns;
-Represent quantities with objects, pictures, graphs, and words.

Our Curriculum Principles
All children can learn. There are tremendous differences in terms of where children are on the developmental continuum as they enter kindergarten. We work with each child as an individual, and accommodate a variety of learning styles to meet the needs of all children. Our curriculum is thematic-based and hands-on; it integrates all content areas, with a strong emphasis on writing, reading and math. In addition, it is equally important to help children develop the social skills that help them be caring, creative, cooperative, confident individuals!

Our Thoughts on Learning
Young children learn best when they are actively engaged with materials and experiences which have meaning and relevance in their lives. Children learn best when learning is kept whole, meaningful, interesting and functional, involves choices and allows for creativity.

Play is the most important way by which kindergartners learn. Through play children learn concepts, practice roles, construct meaning and test ideas. Classroom materials provide a hands-on approach to investigation, problem solving, critical thinking, sharing, and creating.

Children learn best as a community of learners in a noncompetitive environment. Reading and writing skills develop simultaneously, support one and other, and begin long before a child enters kindergarten. Families play an important role in a child’s education, and the partnership between teachers and parents working as a team is important for child's social and academic growth.

More Helpful Information
Kindergartners currently rotate through specialty classes: Science with Mr. Brad Levenhagen, physical education with Ms. Jennifer Dobson and music with Ms. Jennifer Thomas. The classes are 50 minutes a day on a rotating basis.