Curriculum

The core curriculum consists of language, humanities, mathematics, and science.  In addition, children experience an array of opportunities designed to compliment the core curriculum.  These include Art, Music, Drama, Information and Computer Technology (computers), and Physical Education (children enrolled in the program participate in the “Gymnastics Express” program --real gymnastics in a school bus--weekly).

In the 2008-2009 academic year, two programs will be offered:

The Preschool Program is designed for children ages 3 to 5 (children must be 3 by December 31 2008).  The class meets daily from 9am until 12pm.  The children are taught in an academically challenging environment; yet, they have unstructured play time both indoor and outdoor every day.

The Half Day Pre-Kindergarten & Kindergarten Program is designed for children ages 4 to 6 (children must be 4 by August 1 2008).  The class meets daily from 1 to 4pm.  Although the program is academically challenging, the work is tailored to each individual child’s current level of ability.  This half day program is open for enrollment to all students (new and returning); no previous French exposure required.

Preschool and PreK/K is offered only five days a week because...

It is important that children attend school daily for immersion to work well.  This ensures a high quality linguistic program for all.  It also allows the children to have a sense of routine and limits some frustration they may otherwise encounter if going to school two or three times per week.

At school, the teachers provide a structured environment with rites and routines.  This allows the children to quickly become familiar with the expectations and have a sense of ownership of the program.  Everyday, the children have opportunities for free play (both indoor and outdoor) and structured activities (circle time, art, snack time, work time).  This provides them with the necessary opportunities to grow in all aspects of their development: social, emotional, maturational, physical, and cognitive.

 

Parental Involvement

Because children and adults benefit from being a part of a community, families are encouraged to take ownership of the school.  In fact, the school operates as a non-for-profit corporation and is overseen by a Board of Directors.  This provides families with opportunities to participate in making this school an asset to our community.  Parents are invited to help in any way that suits their schedules and other commitments.  For example, some parents serve on the Board of Directors, others will pick up books from the library to support a topic discussed in class, yet others will come and volunteer in class with special projects or holidays.  The key is to be involved and take part in making the school a success.

 

Opportunities for La Petite Ecole families and parents to meet are frequent:

Let’s do Lunch (every quarter)

A back to school picnic in the fall

An international dinner in the winter

A children’s program and graduation picnic at the end of the year

Program