Welcome to K/1, the students’ first experience in a multi-aged classroom!
I am committed to helping children become independent thinkers. I will create an environment where children are celebrated as the unique individuals they are. We will honor and respect the differences of one another. We will laugh, cry, learn, and grow together as class (as well as independently at our own pace). The joys of childhood are cherished in the classroom!
Within the social and emotional climate of our classroom, students will authentically learn coping skills and problem-solving strategies. Problem solving plays a vital role in children’s cognitive development. Children are learning creativity, perspective taking, and negotiation while working through problems. Children will take risks, make mistakes, and learn from their peers. Kindness and inclusivity are key. Our classroom is a highly social place- full of conversations, stories, songs, and giggles!
Children are naturally curious about the world around them and I will build from that curiosity. My academic planning is guided by student interest. My child-centered K/1 curriculum is full of rich, meaningful hands-on activities. Children will engage in independent centers daily that include literacy, math, and writing activities. In K/1 there is a heavy emphasis on phonics to ensure students’ foundational skills are strong. Phonics instruction teaches children how to decode letters into their respective sounds, a skill that is essential to read unfamiliar words independently. Letter-sound knowledge allows children to link the unfamiliar print words to spoken knowledge. Projects, experiments, nature, and science are all around us at Keystone!
Creative play is honored above all! Children will have daily free-choice play centers as well as ample outdoor exploration and play time. During our time together in K/1, I will strive to promote a child-driven, hands-on, and joyful learning experience for each child.
