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The Early Pre-Kindergarten (EPK) program is developmentally appropriate for children who are fully toilet trained and are three years of age before September 1 of the school year. Classes are offered on a two-day, (Tuesday/Thursday), a three-day (Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday) or a five-day schedule. Classroom hours are 8:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.
Building Language for Literacy and The Letter People is our adopted program. Themes are used throughout the year to integrate developmental and academic skills of readiness. Oral language, phonological awareness,
letter knowledge and concepts of print combine to set the foundation for
lifelong literacy success.
The EPK program offers growth in physical, social, emotional and cognitive
skills through a series of thematic units with numerous activities. Basic
concepts introduced and reinforced in the classroom are:
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Acquiring language skills to prepare for literacy
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Learning to exhibit responsible behavior in social situations
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Ordering and sequencing events
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Gathering information through the five senses
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Expressing emotion with music, dance and drama
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Demonstrating healthy behaviors and personal coordination
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Developing citizenship skills
EPK students move easily from organized learning activities into independent
play areas in the classrooms of the EPK building. This creatively designed
area gives our first year students a sheltered, safe place to become accustomed
to life away from home. Physical separation from the older classes ensures
quiet rest times and safe play areas that are designed specifically for
their age level.
EPK students move to other areas of the campus for enrichment studies
and special events. Weekly visits are made to the computer lab, the gymnasium,
Spanish, music and the library. During those times, enrichment teachers
with specialized training for their particular area guide the children
through lessons appropriate for their age level.
St. John's EPK students attend Chapel located in the EPK building twice
a week. Age appropriate lessons are taught using Bible stories, activities
and songs.
Helping each child make a successful transition from home into the educational
environment is the basic goal of St. John's EPK program. We work to help
children build a healthy, positive attitude for learning.
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