The focus of the PK2 program is to foster a love of learning through discovery and play. Children are engaged in stimulating, age-appropriate activities that help them make connections and develop an awareness of the world around them. The classroom environment is warm and welcoming, and thematic units provide a framework for learning. Opportunities for choice and creative expression abound through flexible, relevant learning experiences. Social and emotional development is nurtured through language-rich interactions and playful engagement in group activities. Special area classes that provide enrichment experiences include music, Christian education, and library storytime.

The PK3 program is designed to allow children to develop their individual talents and abilities and to experience success in their academic and social situations. It focuses on the development of skills in motor, language, and concepts while building a foundation for effective social interaction and decision-making skills. Children work in both large and small groups and learn through teacher-directed activities and self-selected experiences. Interest centers are located throughout the classroom and allow the children to choose from a variety of learning materials. Themes incorporated into the curriculum provide unique opportunities for discovery and learning. Children attend special area classes throughout the week. These classes include physical education, library, Spanish, and music. Chapel is held every week for PK3.

Language Arts
The language arts program is designed to develop beginning literacy skills and provide the basis for a solid reading and writing foundation. Rich language experiences include a student-created picture dictionary, individual and collaborative books, dramatic play, puppets, finger plays, rhymes, journals, and experience stories. Letter names and sounds are introduced and reinforced throughout the year. Book and print awareness are developed through a printrich classroom environment and children are read to often from a variety of high quality literature.

Mathematics
Exploration of mathematical relationships and the development of thinking and reasoning skills are the principle goals of the PK4 math program. Math readiness skills are developed primarily through hands-on activities and the use of manipulative materials. Teacher-directed activities and self-selected experiences provide opportunities for children to develop skills in numeral identification, counting, shape identification, spatial relationships, sorting, patterning, graphing, and estimating.

Science
The PK4 science program is designed to build a foundation for developing curiosity about the world in which we live. Hands-on learning opportunities are provided through teacher-directed experiences, as well as through learning center activities. Themes such as life cycles, seasons, and weather are explored throughout the year and supported by relevant activities.

Spanish
Children in PK4 are introduced to basic Spanish vocabulary through age-appropriate activities, games, and songs in a weekly Spanish class.

Social Studies
The social studies program focuses on developing an awareness of self and others. Thematic units supported by the social studies curriculum include self-awareness, Native Americans, the farm, community helpers, transportation, and holidays. Special events that allow children to engage in interactive learning through relevant experiences include the Native American Pow wow, Thanksgiving Feast, Donuts With Daddy, and the Mother’s Day Tea.

Music
Music and movement are integrated with other curriculum areas in the classroom. Musical games and rhythm instruments enhance learning and contribute to the children’s musical enjoyment. PK4 children attend music class once a week.

Art
Art is used to support other areas of the curriculum while providing a variety of creative experiences. Children are exposed to many tools and materials. Teacher-planned, as well as self-selected activities, invite children to express themselves creatively while developing essential motor skills.

Physical Education
Physical education classes three times a week and daily playground time provide opportunities for children to develop gross motor skills through planned activities and free play.

Christian Education
The Christian education program encourages appreciation for God’s gifts as well as the development of a positive self-image and appropriate social skills. PK4 children attend a weekly chapel service led by the Chaplain.

Technology
Children are introduced to basic computer skills in a weekly computer lab class. Software focusing on prereading and premath activities allows children to practice skills introduced in the classroom.