Philosophy:
Our Pre-Kindergarten program seeks to:
- Provide a high quality Pre-K education that is based on the principles of child development and the mission of Vermont Day
School - Support the cognitive and social-emotional growth of students
- Foster a caring community of learners
- Offer an environment that promotes problem-solving and exploration through hands on activities and play
- Provide opportunities for students to explore their interests and curiosities
- Integrate art, music, STEM, and creativity into everyday learning
- Document student learning and growth through assessment and observation
Curriculum:
- Emergent curriculum based on observation of children’s interests and theories; highly focused on play rather than direct
instruction - Literacy and math teaching and learning will happen within the social context of authentic experiences and the
children’s play. - Environment as the “third” teacher. The classroom environment will offer engaging “set-ups” that provoke children to ask questions, problem-solve, build theories, and work collaboratively with their peers.
- Teachers act on the perspective that each person’s challenges and strengths are the strengths and challenges of the group. Teachers talk openly in order to problem solve with the whole group (teachers, parents & children), soliciting ideas about how to handle sticky situations and offering positive feedback.
