Description: The philosophy of Chilmark Preschool is grounded in a strong commitment to providing a high quality learning environment for preschoolers and their families. We believe that it is essential to create a physical and social environment that promotes respect for all, a positive learning atmosphere and a safe place where children are valued as individuals. Children are viewed as competent, curious and creative. It is their genuine enthusiasm for learning about the world around them that drives our curriculum.
The daily activities at Chilmark Preschool reflect these values and visions. The teachers have a strong knowledge of child development and recognize the value of predictability and consistency. They are program planners, guides, careful observers and listeners. The curriculum is not set in stone at the beginning of the year, but rather emerges from the interests and needs of the children and teachers. In all cases our curriculum honors the Massachusetts Department of Education’s Guidelines for Preschool Learning Experiences. These guidelines “structure learning through play and meaningful activities.” At the beginning of the school year teachers outline the daily schedule, but the curriculum is flexible and emerges from the teachers’ careful observations of the children and their interests.
Our classroom materials invite children to investigate, make new discoveries and construct their own knowledge. Through their natural curiosity and spontaneous play, children create opportunities to explore number concepts, build early literacy skills, understand their natural world and express themselves in a wide variety of ways. Throughout the school day, teachers help children to express their emotions as well as understand those of their peers, fostering social relationships that are built on mutual respect and cooperation. These meaningful and enriching experiences build a sense of confidence, competence and a love of learning.
We strive to foster parental growth and education through community events and educational opportunities and encourage and support the continued professional development of our staff. Teachers and parents work as partners to facilitate and nurture each child’s development in all areas.
Collaboration and cooperation between teachers, parents, children and the larger community is central to the success of our inclusive early childhood program. Children will explore the island through rich experiences such as walking field trips, nature studies and community visitors. It is important that children feel a part of their own classroom community as well as a part of the larger community. Experiences such as these will encourage children to become enthusiastic participants in the world in which they live.
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