MISSION STATEMENT
NPES Preschool engages every student in a nurturing and well balanced program that focuses on the development of the whole child.
Our small, yet strong community is built upon an early childhood teaching staff of caring professionals and the active involvement of parents and families.
We are dedicated to providing an engaging environment that encourages natural curiosity and instills a love of learning through movement and the use of multiple modes of communication.
THE PROGRAM
During the 2011-2012 school year, NPES will be offering a 5-day per week, mixed-age preschool program for 3- and 4-year-old children. Families will have the option of enrolling in either the morning or afternoon session. For an extended day, students can join the Lunch Bunch.
Mornings: Monday through Friday from 8:35 a.m. to 11:20 a.m.
Lunch Bunch (optional): 11:20 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Afternoons: Monday through Friday from 12:15 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Lunch Bunch (optional): 10:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.
Students participating in Lunch Bunch will eat lunch (brought from home), enjoy fun crafts and projects, and have time for creative free play with their classmates.
THE CURRICULUM
Inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, NPES Preschool offers a child-centered program that fosters creativity and growth through hands-on learning. The curriculum engages the whole child through activities that encourage social and emotional growth, gross-motor skills, fine-motor skills, and the exploration of language and expression through art, dramatic play, and centers for inquiry. Each day the students will have ample time to learn through play, and activities will often be tailored to the individual interests of the children. Similar to North Park Elementary School (NPES), the curriculum also emphasizes and incorporates principles of respect, responsibility, and community.
THE CLASSROOM ENVIRONMENT
In line with the Reggio Emilia approach, each classroom at NPES Preschool is considered a teacher in that it is rich with highly interactive elements that engage the students with their surroundings to provide spontaneous learning opportunities. Through efforts such as using environmentally friendly cleaning supplies, and promoting responsibility in regards to waste and efficient use of our resources, NPES Preschool provides a "green" environment for the health of the students and the Earth. NPES Preschool will also ensure a healthy learning environment by maintaining a low student-teacher ratio in each class with no more than 14 students in the classroom at a time.