PreSchool - PreK

About

The PreSchool and PreKindergarten program at highland is all about discovery. Our youngest students are full of curiosity about the world around them, and our classrooms are created to foster that playful discovery through multi-sensory experiences. These students are full of movement and love to sing, dance, climb, and run. They are sensory seekers, so they explore their world, intent upon finding colors, shapes, patterns, textures, sounds, and smells, learning best from play.

PreSchool and PreK teachers plan themes and special days incorporating academics through play and relevant, hands-on experiences. The emphasis of these themes is to build early literacy, social development, and independence while engaging the student’s imagination and natural sense of wonder. Each class is a building block for the next age class in skillsets with the ultimate goal of Kindergarten readiness after PreK.

The squeals of laughter and delight heard throughout the day in the classrooms are a sign of engaged students enjoying the learning happening within.

Goals of the PreSchool - PreK Program

• Instill a love of Christ within each child and help them gain awareness of how loved they are by their Savior

• Value each child as an individual

• Provide opportunities for children to gain confidence

• Understand and meet the developmental needs of each child socially, emotionally, physically, and academically

• Foster a love of learning

• Encourage children to become active participants in their learning through play and discovery

• Teach critical thinking skills, decision-making, and conflict resolution

• Encourage risk-taking in a nurturing environment

• Provide an environment in which each child can develop to his or her fullest potential

• Encourage parental involvement through a variety of activities

• Encourage in children an acceptance of others through the establishment of a classroom community

• Engage in frequent parent communication and encourage a feeling of community within the school

• Continually develop teacher expertise through observation, research, and professional development opportunities

Objectives

Days are planned so that children will:

• Be Safe

• Feel loved and secure

• Receive individual attention and affection

• Develop fulfilling relationships with other children and adults

• Develop self-discipline and respect for others

• Experience Success

• Be Kind

• Embrace the mission work of shepherding their hearts, empowering their minds, and celebrating their childhood