By: Hillary Cook-Harris
As we close out Week of the Young Child, we are going to focus on the collaboration with Circles of Learning Child Care Center. Seven classrooms provide a preschool experience for students ages 3-5 whose families also need additional childcare.
RPS early childhood teachers team up with Circles of Learning staff to provide a unique and dynamic learning experience for students in these classrooms. Including families in their child’s education is key to future success. Family members are encouraged to visit and learn about what their children are experiencing while they are in the classroom and at the center.
RPS Early Childhood Administrator for Circles of Learning, Vicci Gartner, understands the importance of the school-family partnership. “An effective preschool meets student needs by looking at family needs, as well. We ask ourselves, how do we support the family members and family structure? Do you have needs outside of your work hours? We share community resources and help parents get what they need for their children.”
There are many ways that families can engage in their child’s educational experience at Circles Of Learning including Trunk-or-Treat, a family gingerbread house decorating event, trips to and a family night at the Discovery Center, and the annual Breakfast Buddies day where families enjoy a breakfast together. The staff continually develops new ways for families to engage and be a part of the learning community. The collaboration also meets with families to discuss their child’s progress through family conferences, newsletters, SeeSaw communication and informal conversations.
Understanding that families are a child’s first and most important teacher, the partnership with families is an important piece of the child's educational journey.
Interested in learning more about the RPS205 Early Childhood opportunities for families with children Birth-age 5? Visit https://www.rps205.com/o/rps/page/early-childhood or call the Early Childhood Screening and Placement Office at 815-229-2103.
About the author: Hillary Cook-Harris is the Director of Early Childhood Curriculum and Assessment. Hillary joined RPS 205 in November 2019. She has been an Early Childhood educator and director for more than 30 years.