Kindergarten Curriculum 2007/08
Gretchen Eichberger-Kudlack, Teacher |
Language Students will practice pre-reading skills by representing ideas through pictures, forming letters, writing, and associating letters with their sounds. Listening to stories, demonstrating appropriate listening behavior, and communicating experiences and ideas will be part of the child’s daily routine. High quality children’s literature will be the center in our language development. Mathematics Algebraic concepts such as patterning will be practiced throughout the year. Geometry and measurement will also be introduced. Number concepts such as recognizing, writing, and counting will also be introduced and practiced. Our World Good citizenship will be modeled and praised upon throughout the year. Positive and meaningful interaction with peers and role models will be a focus. Rules of personal safety will be demonstrated and identified. Sciences Health, hygiene and the care of our human body will be integral parts of our classroom. The four seasons and their distinct characteristics will be highlighted as well as the many plant and animal species that we share our planet with us. Fine Arts Dramatic play, music, visual art, and dance will be incorporated in lessons throughout our school day. Acting out favorite stories, singing, playing percussion instruments, painting, and sculpting will be some of the many expressive moments of our day. Student Work Kindergarten students are actively engaged in the learning process. Their papers and written work are part of this process and as such, are teaching and learning tools. Some work products are produced cooperatively and will be retained in the classroom for all students. Some individual work may be kept for analysis and student files. Non-written work (block play, dramatic play, and dialoguing) is assessed through observation. Mistakes are part of the learning process, and should not become a focus. Learning is a process and one should also focus on the positive. Parents in the Classroom All are welcome in our classroom. If you wish to observe a lesson or the entire day, you will be assigned to a designated area. You are encouraged to share your time and talents with students as a classroom volunteer. Due to safety concerns small children will not be permitted during volunteer time. All classroom volunteers are expected to observe confidentiality when working with children. You can notify me if you wish to volunteer in the classroom for the following:
Clothing Please assist us by keeping our lost and found basket empty by writing your child’s name on their clothing tags. Children on occasion have accidents, therefore I advise that your child have a spare outfit at school. This outfit can be sent with your child in a plastic bag labeled with their name. I will keep it in our bathroom closet. Shoes Please practice the skill of tying shoelaces at home. Snacks Please send a healthy snack with your child. We will snack throughout the day. Health and Hygiene It is suggested that you do not send your child to school if they are experiencing the following:
Toys Children play more cooperatively if they do not bring their own toys to school. Please keep your child’s personal toys at home. Responsibility of the Child Classroom Expectations All students are expected to observe courteous and respectful behavior at all times. Good manners will be focused on through the school year. If a child is behaving in a way which impedes a healthy classroom environment, the following steps will be taken.
Personal Hygiene We have a bathroom in our classroom. All students will be allowed to use the bathroom at all times of the day. Before they use the bathroom they must inform me. All students are expected to wash their hands following bathroom use. |
Sample Day - 3 Days a Week Kindergarten
Communication between Parents and Teacher Open lines of communication are essential when educating children. If you have a question or a concern, please address it directly to me. During the school day is is advised that you leave a message with our school office. School Phone –
231-889-5521 ext. 435 Weekly Thursday Folders Each Thursday your child will bring home a Tyvek envelope containing completed work and correspondence from our office and myself. Please make sure you check your child’s backpack nightly in case pertinent information is sent home. Monthly Calender and Newsletter I will publish a monthly calendar and newsletter the first Thursday of each month. This newsletter will contain an overview of the skills, activities and objectives for the upcoming weeks. Conferences and Report Cards Report Cards are completed at the end of each quarter - November, January, April and June. We have two scheduled conferences – November and April. Additional conferences may be scheduled depending on the needs of your child. Parents may also request conferences. Field Trips Local trips will be scheduled through the year, beach, forest, farm, etc… Parents are encouraged to participate.
School Supplies Most of your child’s school supplies will be provided for by our classroom budget. Classroom donations of large beginner pencils, colored pencils, non-toxic paints, construction paper, safety scissors, modeling clay, and books are always appreciated. Rest and Nap Time Your child may wish to have a blanket or small pillow from home. Please send these articles in zipped plastic bag (large Ziploc or comforter bag). They will go home each Friday for laundering. About your Child’s Teacher I have taught elementary and fine art classes for eight years. I teach because I believe that education is the sole foundation of society. I received a Bachelor of Arts in Music from Western Michigan University. Music has always been a part of my life since I was able to reach the piano keys. I also serve as Artistic Director for the Manistee – Benzie Area Children’s Chorus. The ‘way things used to be’ intrigue me and therefore I am in the process of completing a Masters of Arts in Historic Preservation. I live just outside of Elberta with my husband James, and daughter, Gwendolyn. |