Director's Message
Hello everyone!
A new school year is starting and we are excited!
During the month of August Santa Inez will be getting ready for the new school year. For our returning families, you will notice that we have new classroom names.
Maple: Toddler Class with Lead Teacher Paulina
Birch: Toddler Class with Lead Teacher Ana Lucia
Cedar: Preschool Class with Lead Teacher Brenda
Willow: Preschool Class with Lead Teacher Angelica
Redwood: Pre-K/TK Class with Lead Teacher Monica
This week, you’ll receive a Welcome Letter from your child’s Lead Teacher, detailing which class your child will be in, the teaching team, and important information about Family Orientation and Back to School Night.
We look forward to a fantastic year ahead!
Program Highlights
Engagement Activities
During the month of August the children will be exploring their new classrooms and getting to know their teachers. The first few weeks of the preschool year are crucial for setting the tone and establishing a positive, nurturing environment. Here’s a general overview of what typically happens during this time:
Orientation and Introduction
Meeting New Faces: Children are introduced to their teachers, classmates, and the classroom environment. This often involves playful activities and guided tours of the space to help them become familiar with their new surroundings.
Family Orientation: Before school starts, join us for a virtual session to prepare for the new school year. We’ll cover expectations, daily routines, tips for supporting your child's transition, drop-off and pick-up procedures, communication methods, and needed supplies.
Back to School Night: In September, attend a virtual session to learn about the curriculum and yearly goals. We’ll provide an overview of our educational framework, key learning objectives, and approach to development. Meet the teaching team, ask questions, and hear about upcoming events and activities.
Establishing Routines
Daily Schedule: Teachers introduce the daily schedule, including circle time, snack time, playtime, and nap time. Consistency is key to helping children feel secure and understand what to expect each day.
Classroom Rules: Basic rules and expectations are introduced gently. Teachers use clear, simple language and visual aids to help children understand concepts like sharing, taking turns, and listening.
Social and Emotional Adjustment
Separation Anxiety: Many children may experience separation anxiety as they adjust to being away from their parents. Teachers provide extra comfort and support, offering reassuring routines and engaging activities to help children feel safe.
Building Relationships: Emphasis is placed on fostering friendships and encouraging positive social interactions. Teachers often facilitate group activities and cooperative play to help children build bonds with their peers.
Exploration and Discovery
Classroom Exploration: Children are encouraged to explore different areas of the classroom, including play centers, art stations, and reading corners. This helps them become comfortable with their new environment and discover areas of interest.
Activity Focus: Activities are designed to be engaging and allow for exploration and creativity. This could include art projects, sensory bins, and simple games that promote motor skills and problem-solving.
Assessment and Observation
Initial Observations: Teachers observe each child to understand their individual needs, strengths, and areas for growth. This helps in planning activities and providing appropriate support.
Developmental Milestones: Observations also help in identifying any developmental milestones or areas where children might need additional support, ensuring that each child’s needs are met effectively.
Communication and Feedback
Regular Updates: Teachers often provide regular updates to parents about their child’s progress, social interactions, and any concerns or highlights from the day.
Open Communication: Establishing open lines of communication between teachers and parents is crucial. Parents are encouraged to share any relevant information about their child and to discuss any concerns they might have.
Overall, the first few weeks of preschool are all about creating a warm, welcoming environment where children feel safe and excited to learn and play. It’s a time of adjustment, both for the children and their families, and setting a positive tone early on can make a significant difference in the overall preschool experience.
Professional Development
Please note that Happy Hall Santa Inez will be closed August 14th, 15th, and 16th.
We greatly appreciate your support in allowing us this time for professional growth and educational development.
These dedicated days are essential for us to stay updated on the latest educational trends and techniques, collaborate with colleagues, and share best practices. This continuous professional development helps us improve our teaching methods, increase child engagement, and ultimately enhance the overall quality of education we provide to your children.
Additionally, Staff Development Days give us the opportunity to focus on safety and training, update and refresh our classrooms, and ensure we are providing the best possible learning environment. These sessions keep us motivated and inspired, leading to a more positive and productive work environment.
Thank you for your understanding and continued support. We look forward to implementing the new strategies and ideas we gain from these valuable sessions to benefit your children.
Reminders
Arriving before circle time starts can help set your child's day off to a consistent routine. Allowing children time to ease into the day smoothly and join their classmates in engaging activities right from the beginning.
Absence days or medical appointments can be marked within the 1Core Family App > “Record Absence.” If days are missed due to illness or other needs please communicate with the school. Illnesses that can affect the school community must be reported to your child's teacher or school office.
Please refer to the Family Handbook for timeframe children may return to school after illness guidelines. Family Handbook
Looking Ahead
Monday, September 2 | Closed for Labor Day
Friday, September 13 | Minimum day school closes at 1:00pm
Friday, September 13 | Back to School Meetings (Virtual)
Saturday, September 21 | Park Day (10:00 AM)
Stay Connected
Check out our photo galleries:
Thank You!
Frank DiFede
Program Director
Happy Hall @ Santa Inez
