Happy New Year!

What’s Happening in Preschool?

This January will mark the second anniversary of  the Kansas City, Kansas Early Childhood Center.  We’ve spent two wonderful years in our new home and we’ve enjoyed every moment!  The excitement never stops as we embark upon 2012.  Most of our PLCs are kicking off the new year by learning all about winter and snow.  This time of year typically provides many opportunities for fun and authentic learning experiences around winter weather.  Observing snow fall, discussing hibernation and dressing up in snow boots and mittens might be a few activities you’d see in our classrooms.  Check out the igloo and it’s hibernating inhabitant pictured below and don’t forget to bundle up!

Shhh..He's sleeping!

Spotlight On K.C.K.: Technology and Informational Services (T.I.S.)

Technology is a huge part of our day here at K.C.K.E.C.C.  From desktop computers, to laptop computers, to SMARTboards, to digital cameras, to ipods, to document cameras—we have so much at our finger tips.  Who is responsible for keeping all of this up and running?  Our district T.I.S. department, of course!  We are so fortunate to have such a skilled team of experts on our side.  Often times, all it takes is one phone call and we’ve got someone at our door to reboot our computer or update our SMARTboard software.  Thank you, T.I.S. , for all you do!

Ms. Janelle Using the Document Camera

Thanks For Your Support: Michael Bergen and “Hands to Heart” Foundation

We want to say thank you to Michael Bergen and his “Hand to Hearts” Foundation. This foundation provided Christmas gifts for several of our students and their families.  Not only did Mr. Bergen help many of our families this Christmas, but also countless families throughout the metro area.  We were so pleased to have met Mr. Bergen.  We appreciate his giving spirit and his kind deeds.  Check out his website for more information on Mr. Bergen and his “Hands to Hearts” Foundation.  www.michaelbergen.com  

Instructional Focus: Dramatic Play

Dramatic play is a key component of our early childhood curriculum. Dramatic play provides opportunities to combine spoken language with imagination, to imitate and to pretend to be someone or something else. It stimulates all areas of a child’s growth, and can in turn effect the child’s success in school. Dramatic play has also been shown to enable children to be more flexible in new situations. Pretending allows children to transform real life, changing things from how they really are to how the child perceives them to be. All of our classrooms are equipped with dramatic play centers, which change frequently based on the theme being studied in the classroom.  Providing this unstructured opportunity for our students to create and play is an excellent way to facilitate a number of our early childhood goals.

Dramatic Play Center With A Winter Theme

Website of the Month: www.funbrain.com

Funbrain delivers a fun and safe experience for even the youngest children. The Playground page helps parents introduce their preschoolers to the Internet and teaches them how to manipulate the mouse and keyboard. Selected by FamilyFun magazine in its September 2010 issue as one of the top ten websites for kids, Funbrain is committed to providing a safe environment that bridges learning and entertainment.  Have fun!

January at KCKECC…

January 5: Students Return from Winter Break

January 13: Hat Day

January 16: No School for Students and Staff, Martin Luther King’s Birthday

January 27: Mix and Match Day                                                                                            

 

How You Can Help:

We appreciate all the donations of time and resources that we receive daily here at K.C.K.E.C.C. If you are interested in helping there are a few things we could always use.  We are strong participants in the “Box Tops for Education” program! For every box top we collect we receive money that goes straight to our students. This might be to help fund a field trip, purchase classroom supplies or bring in special visitors. Please check your grocery store items (cereal, crackers, Kleenex, plastic bags, etc.) and consider donating your General Mills box tops to K.C.K.E.C.C.  Best Choice UPC Codes: This is similar to the box top collection program, but it takes many more. For every 1,000 Best Choice UPC labels collected our school receives $30.00. The UPC label can be from any best choice product. Please remember us! We have an ongoing collection for the homeless. We can always use nonperishable food items and monetary donations to pass along to those in need.   In honor of a very special pre-k colleague, we have established the Baby Garrett and Jessica Love Fund. Baby Garrett and Jessica were two unforgettable individuals who passed on all too prematurely. To honor the memory of these individuals, K.C.K.E.C.C. has set up a LOVE FUND to be used for expenses that directly relate to our early childhood program students…eyeglasses for a child who cannot afford them, scholarships for any special events, funeral expenses if we were ever to suffer a loss. Your contribution is welcome. Contact us for further information (see the “Contact Us” link on our blog). Thank you!

Delightful December!

What’s Happening in Preschool?

December is one of the most exciting months of the year here at the Kansas City, Kansas Early Childhood Center! We are so fortunate to have the most creative staff on the planet! They use every opportunity in December to provide exciting and meaningful learning opportunities. Most of our PLCs have used the holidays an opportunity to explore the themes of family, travel and shopping/store. There are many authentic learning experiences that can be woven into the learning. For instance, while learning about the pat store, we’ve invited our friends form the Humane Society to teach us about animal care and safety. Take a look in our gallery for more December fun!

What I Want for Christmas

Spotlight On K.C.K.: Health and Wellness Department of USD #500 and the Kansas City, Kansas Board of Public Utilities

 We want to say thank you to the Wellness Department of the Kansas City, Kansas School District, headed up by Kate Foster. This department promotes healthy habits and wellness for both students and staff. They are always so generous with time and resources. In the past they’ve provided us with pedometers, water bottles, relaxation kits and much more. We’ve recently focused on promoting health and fitness through a building family night. Thank you to the Wellness Department for supplying information. Also, thank you to BPU for supplying bottled and water for staff and students at this event. You are the best!

Thanks For Your Support: Cereal Food Processors: Richard Beard, Tim S. Miller and Mary Costello

Each December our student’s receive a special visitor from the North Pole. That’s right—Santa Claus! Our “Santa” is actually Mr. Richard Beard, the father of one of our employees. Our part time Santa actually works full time at Cereal Food Processors. When his employers found out about his generous deed, they too got in the spirit. This year, Cereal Food Processors has supplied each of our students with a holiday stocking filled with goodies. Thank you so much to Cereal Food Processors, Richard Beard, Tim S. Miller and Mary Costello.

Our Santa and His Daughter, Miss Laura

Instructional Focus: Technology

 Christmas came a bit early for all of teachers here at the Kansas City, Kansas Early Childhood Center! At a recent professional learning session each of our teachers received a Mac Book Air for use in the classroom. This up-to-date technology opens all sorts of doors for staff and students. Technology enables us to bring experiences to our students that would otherwise be impossible. With just a few clicks we can visit China or the San Diego Zoo. With a few more clicks, we can read “the Gingerbread Man” in three different languages. After the students have gone home, teachers can research ideas, edit lesson plans and connect with other educators. We are fortunate to be part of a district that recognizes the importance of technology in the 21st century.

Mac Book Air Roll Out

Website of the Month: www.havefunteaching.com

This website is an excellent resource for both educators and families. There are songs, videos and activities for young children, all free of charge. You can explore activities around fitness, colors, science and more. Take a few minutes and have fun exploring www.havefunteaching.com !

December at KCKECC…

December 2: Crazy Hair Day

December 12 and 13: Holiday Parties

December 15 and 16: Visit from Santa and R.I.F. book distribution

December 15: Foster Grandparent’s Holiday Luncheon

December 16: Staff Christmas Party

December 20: Pajama Day and Last Day Before Winter Break

December 25: Merry Christmas!

December 31: Happy New Year!

                                                                                             

 

How You Can Help:

We appreciate all the donations of time and resources that we receive daily here at K.C.K.E.C.C. If you are interested in helping there are a few things we could always use:  We are strong participants in the “Box Tops for Education” program! For every box top we collect we receive money that goes straight to our students. This might be to help fund a field trip, purchase classroom supplies or bring in special visitors. Please check your grocery store items (cereal, crackers, Kleenex, plastic bags, etc.) and consider donating your General Mills box tops to K.C.K.E.C.C.  Best Choice UPC Codes: This is similar to the box top collection program, but it takes many more. For every 1,000 Best Choice UPC labels collected our school receives $30.00. The UPC label can be from any best choice product. Please remember us!  We have an ongoing collection for the homeless. We can always use nonperishable food items and monetary donations to pass along to those in need. Thank you.  In honor of a very special pre-k colleague, we have established the Baby Garrett and Jessica Love Fund. Baby Garrett and Jessica were two unforgettable individuals who passed on all too prematurely. To honor the memory of these individuals, KCKECC has set up a LOVE FUND to be used for expenses that directly relate to our early childhood program students…eyeglasses for a child who cannot afford them, scholarship events for any special events, funeral expenses if we were ever to suffer a loss. Your contribution is welcome. Contact us for further information (see the “Contact Us” link on our blog).

November to Remember!

What’s Happening in Preschool?

We are “falling” into fun as we begin November here at KCKECC!  Pumpkins and apples are everywhere as all of our PLCs continue to explore the farm , the pumpkin patch and the apple orchard.

A Pumpkin Market

The start of November also brought our third FAS Day (Family Day) for the year.  Many opportunities were provided throughout the day for families to learn abut our school and our community.  Several stations were available for families to explore, including:

-Math

-Literacy

-Social-Emotional

-Special Olympics

-Sheriff’s Department Finger Printing

-McGruff  the Crime Dog

-Family Portraits

-Health Information

-Car Seat Safety Information

-United Way Bake Sale and Raffle

McGruff!

Check out our gallery for more photos from our day!

 

Spotlight On K.C.K.:  The Kansas City, Kansas Public Libraries and Carol Levers

The week of November 13- November 19 is our annual “Kansas Reads to Preschoolers” week! The Kansas Center for the Book at the State Library of Kansas promotes the importance of reading to the very young in our state though this yearly event. The book selected this year to promote reading is “Chicka Chicka Boom Boom”. This book was written by one of Kansas’s best known and most beloved children’s book authors, the late Bill Martin, Jr., with John Archambault and illustrated by Lois Ehlert.  The Kansas City, Kansas Public Library Department has provided each and every one of our students with their own copy of “Chicka Chicka Boom Boom”.  This effort was coordinated by the head of the department, Carol Levers. Thank you to Ms. Levers and her staff.  If you have a preschooler in your life, don’t forget to read to them the week of November 13^th –and ALWAYS!

 

Thanks For Your Support: Red Lobster and Alicia Stull

KCKECC recently received a wonderful gift.  We have been “adopted” by our local Red Lobster!  As part of our “adoption” Red Lobster will provide our students with incentive certificates for free children’s meals.  They will share live lobsters with our students when we explore the aquarium theme. Workers have also volunteered to help at upcoming school functions.  A special treat was delivered to staff on FAS Day courtesy of Red Lobster- warm cheddar biscuits!  We want to thank our local Red Lobster (located in the in The Legend’s at 10700 Parallel Parkway) and their general manager, Alicia Stull.

Ms. Alicia joined us for FAS DAY!

Instructional Focus: Writing

This year the entire Kansas City, Kansas School District has made “writing” an instructional focus.  A year of study has been implemented, in which staff will learn about and experiment with many different methods of delivering instruction in the area of writing.  Pre-k has already been involved in two professional learning sessions regarding writing instruction with more to follow.  Teachers have been given the opportunity to research a writing strategy and try it out in their classroom.  Some of these strategies include; journaling, shared writing, interactive writing, writing centers and mentor text/bookmaking.  We are excited to refine our practices in this area leading to greater student success!

 

Writing in Preschool

 

Website of the Month: www.childfun.com

This fun and interactive site balances play and learning!  Many resources are available fro teachers and families.  Crafts, recipes, polls and quizzes,  forums, games and tips are all available on ChildFun!  There is even a special holiday page for all of the upcoming seasonal fun.  Find a child and have some fun together!

November at KCKECC… 

-November 2:  FAS Day, Welcome families!

-November 8:Pre-KSchoolBoard Presentation atWashingtonHigh School, “A Day in the Life of Pre-K”

-November 15: Health and Fitness Family Night

-November 18: Visit from Stable T Farms

-November 18: Mickey Mouse Day, dress like your favorite character

-November  23-25:  Thanksgiving Break, No school for students and staff–gobble, gobble!

How You Can Help 

We appreciate all the donations of time and resources that we receive daily here at K.C.K.E.C.C.  If you are interested in helping there are a few things we could always use: 

• We are strong participants in the “Box Tops for Education” program!  For every box top we collect we receive money that goes straight to our students.  This might be to help fund a field trip, purchase classroom supplies or bring in special visitors.  Please check your grocery store items (cereal, crackers, Kleenex, plastic bags, etc.) and consider donating your General Mills box tops to K.C.K.E.C.C.
• Best Choice UPC Codes:  This is similar to the box top collection program, but it takes many more.  For every 1,000 Best Choice UPC labels collected our school receives $30.00.  The UPC label can be from any best choice product.  Please remember us!
• We have an ongoing collection for the homeless.  We can always use nonperishable food items and monetary donations to pass along to those in need.  Thank you.
• In honor of a very special pre-k colleague, we have established the Baby Garrett and Jessica Love Fund.  Baby Garrett and Jessica were two unforgettable individuals who passed on all too prematurely.  To honor the memory of these individuals, KCKECC has set up a LOVE FUND to be used for expenses that directly relate to our early childhood program students…eyeglasses for a child who cannot afford them, scholarship events for any special events, funeral expenses if we were ever to suffer a loss.  Your contribution is welcome.  Contact us for further information (see the “Contact Us” link on our blog). 

Here Comes October!

 

What’s Happening in Preschool?

Autumn is a magical time in preschool!  This time of year provides us with many opportunities for engaging and authentic learning experiences.  We are fortunate to be located on such a beautiful campus, perfect for fall walks and exploration!

View From Our Backyard!

Because October is Fire Safety Month, most of our PLCs have chosen to explore the “Firehouse” unit.  A visit from firefighter Kelli Littlefield and the fire engine help our students to make a true connection to their learning.  Thanks for the visit Ms. Kelli!

Firefighter Kelli

Another popular fall theme is the “Farm” unit.  The seasonal connection to the pumpkin patch and the apple orchard enable teachers to provide genuine experiences for students.  We are looking forward to a visit from the traveling farm next month! Don’t forget to stop by in November for an update.

We’ve also recently welcomed a visit from Kansas City, Kansas School Superintendent, Dr. Cindy Lane.  Dr. Lane spent the morning visiting our classrooms and talking with our students.  We appreciate the strong district connection to our preschool students and staff.  The support for our preschool program extends far beyond the four walls of our building. Thanks for your visit, Dr. Lane!

Spotlight on K.C.K.:  Our School District and Community Members

Thursday, October 6 was a very special day at KCKECC.  Our students and staff helped to break the record for the world’s largest read aloud!  All over the country preschool age students read the book Llama, Llama, Red Pajama by Anna Dewdney, including all of our preschoolers here at KCKECC.  To help us break the record, many of our friends from the school district and the Kansas City, Kansas community took time out of their busy schedules to read with us.  We welcomed all of the following guest readers into our classrooms:

-Kansas City, Kansas School Board President, Gloria Willis

- Kansas City, Kansas School Board Vice President Linda Pendleton

-School Superintendent, Dr. Cindy Lane

-Assistant Superintendent, Jayson Strickland

-Communications Manager, Tammy Dodderidge,

-Special Education and Early Childhood Executive Director, Kim Shaw

-Special Education Coordinator, Claudia Shannon

-Fine Arts Coordinator, Jean Ney

-KCKECC Principal, Bev Manlove

-Kansas City Star Editorialist, Lewis Diuguid

- Kansas City, Kansas Sheriff, Don Ash

- Kansas City, Kansas Under Sheriff, Larry Roland

- Kansas City, Kansas Foster Grandparents Coordinator, Charlotte Melson

Thank you so much for joining us.  You helped make a special event unforgettable! Check out our gallery for pictures of all of our readers.   

Mr. Lewis Duigiud and Company

Thanks for your Support:  Lisa Santillan/Kaplan Books

 We want to thank Lisa Santillan of Kaplan Books for her generous donation of books.  She was able to donate six copies of Llama, Llama Red Pajama by Anna Dewdney for our “Read for the Record” event.  Because of her gift, each classroom now has it own hardback copy of the book to add to their classroom library.  Guest readers were asked to autograph the book as a memento of this special day!  Thank you Lisa and Kaplan Books!

                                                                                             

Classroom Focus: Home Visits

What is a home visit and why do we do them? A home visit is an opportunity for a teacher to visit a child and his or her family in their home. The ultimate goal of the home visit is to help strengthen relationships between parents and teachers. These visits are beneficial for many reasons. Home visits strengthen parent/teacher relationships, increase student attendance and create feelings of trust, mutual respect, empowerment and accountability by parents, students and staff.  We know that true learning begins at home and it is our responsibility to do everything we can to foster that learning.

Website of the Month: www.kaboose.com

Have you visited www.kaboose.com yet?  This website offers hundreds of fun, family-centered ideas and crafts.  Articles on health, parenting and food are also available.  This website is perfect for sparking the creative genius in all of us! Kaboose updates monthly, so check often for new and innovative ideas!

September at KCKECC… 

-October 6:  “Read for the Record”, Llama, Llama Red Pajama and Pajama Day!

Pajama Day!

-October 11 and 13:  Visits from the Fire Department

-October 12: Home Visits, Families welcome teachers to their homes

-October 20:KCKECC School T-Shirt Sale Begins

-October 25: School Picture Retakes

-October 28: Fall Celebration and Parade

-October 31: No School for Staff and Students

How You Can Help 

We appreciate all the donations of time and resources that we receive daily here at K.C.K.E.C.C.  If you are interested in helping there are a few things we could always use: 

• We are strong participants in the “Box Tops for Education” program!  For every box top we collect we receive money that goes straight to our students.  This might be to help fund a field trip, purchase classroom supplies or bring in special visitors.  Please check your grocery store items (cereal, crackers, Kleenex, plastic bags, etc.) and consider donating your General Mills box tops to K.C.K.E.C.C.
• Best Choice UPC Codes:  This is similar to the box top collection program, but it takes many more.  For every 1,000 Best Choice UPC labels collected our school receives $30.00.  The UPC label can be from any best choice product.  Please remember us!
• We have an ongoing collection for the homeless.  We can always use nonperishable food items and monetary donations to pass along to those in need.  Thank you.
• In honor of a very special pre-k colleague, we have established the Baby Garrett and Jessica Love Fund.  Baby Garrett and Jessica were two unforgettable individuals who passed on all too prematurely.  To honor the memory of these individuals, KCKECC has set up a LOVE FUND to be used for expenses that directly relate to our early childhood program students…eyeglasses for a child who cannot afford them, scholarship events for any special events, funeral expenses if we were ever to suffer a loss.  Your contribution is welcome.  Contact us for further information (see the “Contact Us” link on our blog). 

Welcome Back!

What’s Happening in Preschool?

We are so excited to be back at school!  The beginning of the school year is very exciting for both staff and students.  There are all sorts of new things to learn and explore.  We are glad you stopped by to join us for another year of learning and fun.  PLC I and PLC II are diving right into learning as they explore the ocean.  PLC III is helping to bridge the transition to school by learning about homes and communities.  PLC IV starts the year off with a roar as they learn about the zoo.  Check out our gallery for more preschool fun!  

School is fun!

K.C.K.E.C.C. Spotlight:  New Staff Members

Our incoming students aren’t the only ones who are new to our building.  We are welcoming 9 new staff members to our building this year!  Welcome to our new classroom teachers, Melissa Arnold, Niki Jeffers, Karen Ramsey, Erica LaBlanc, Janelle Wheeler and Megan McPherson. Welcome to our new speech language therapists, Manisha Patel-Tatum and Peggy Weins. Welcome to our new para-educator, Tammy Berry.  Our students and staff are fortunate to have each and every one of you on our team!  Check out our staff page to see all of our new editions and transitions.

Spotlight on You:  Grandparents

 September 11 is a nationally recognized holiday celebrating grandparents. Grandparents are a huge part of many of our student’s lives, in some cases even being the primary care giver.  We appreciate all of the time and effort our grandparent’s put forth to ensure that their grandchildren have a positive and successful school experience.  You all hold a very special place in our hearts.  Happy Grandparents Day!

Instructional Focus: Small Group Instruction

Research shows that the most beneficial way to deliver instruction to young children is in a small group setting.  A small group setting provides a safe environment for children to explore and learn.  Children are more likely to express themselves in a smaller group. Teachers have fewer students to focus on, making instructional time that much more effective.  Instruction can also be tailored for each individual child or group of children.  The list of benefits goes on and on.  Almost all of our instruction at KCKECC is delivered in small groups.  This includes center play, story time and all of our pre-academic activities.  Small groups are the key to engaging, interactive and purposeful learning!

Small Groups At Work!

 

Website of the Month: www.kckps.org

Please take a moment to check out the Kansas City, Kansas School District #500 website.  This website gives you access to district programs, forms and calendars.  Community maps and school contact information are also available. Be sure to check out the link to our district superintendent’s blog, as well as links to the district Facebook page and twitter account. All the information you could hope to learn about the Kansas City, Kansas School District is right at your fingertips!

September at KCKECC… 

-September 5:  Labor Day, No school

-September 11:  Grandparent’s Day

-September 21: FAS Day, Families welcome!

-September 21:ScholasticSchoolBook Fair

-September 27: School picture day, Say cheese!

-September 28: Home visits, Families welcome teachers to their homes.

How You Can Help 

We appreciate all the donations of time and resources that we receive daily here at K.C.K.E.C.C.  If you are interested in helping there are a few things we could always use: 

• We are strong participants in the “Box Tops for Education” program!  For every box top we collect we receive money that goes straight to our students.  This might be to help fund a field trip, purchase classroom supplies or bring in special visitors.  Please check your grocery store items (cereal, crackers, Kleenex, plastic bags, etc.) and consider donating your General Mills box tops to K.C.K.E.C.C.
• Best Choice UPC Codes:  This is similar to the box top collection program, but it takes many more.  For every 1,000 Best Choice UPC labels collected our school receives $30.00.  The UPC label can be from any best choice product.  Please remember us!
• We have an ongoing collection for the homeless.  We can always use nonperishable food items and monetary donations to pass along to those in need.  Thank you.
• In honor of a very special pre-k colleague, we have established the Baby Garrett and Jessica Love Fund.  Baby Garrett and Jessica were two unforgettable individuals who passed on all too prematurely.  To honor the memory of these individuals, KCKECC has set up a LOVE FUND to be used for expenses that directly relate to our early childhood program students…eyeglasses for a child who cannot afford them, scholarship events for any special events, funeral expenses if we were ever to suffer a loss.  Your contribution is welcome.  Contact us for further information (see the “Contact Us” link on our blog). 

See You Later, Alligator!

After while, Crocodile!  We’ve wrapped up another year here at KCKECC.  Staff and students will be off for the summer to relax and enjoy family and friends!  We’ll be back next August with more new friends and more new adventures!  Have a great summer!

May Is On The Way In KCK!

What’s Happening in Preschool? 

Both students and teachers alike have an extra “spring” in their step this time of year.  May is a time for us to reflect on all of the hard work and fun that has occurred over the past nine months.  Each year seems to go by faster and faster.  It was only yesterday that our little ones timidly entered our doors to embark on their first school experience.  Now, we watch with lumps in our throats as our big boys and girls bound out the door on their way to kindergarten. Though we will miss all of our preschoolers, we know that May is a time to celebrate! We will send all of our graduates out with a bang as we hold graduation ceremonies the week of May 16.  Thank you to Price Chopper, Sunfresh Market, Connie’s Cookies and the Donut Factory for your donations of graduation goodies!

Congratulations Graduates!

Though things are starting to wrap up, we will continue learning and growing down to the last minute!  All of our PLCs are currently exploring the “Garden” theme.  This theme allows our students the opportunity for some “hands on” planting and growing experiences.  We are so grateful to “Family Tree Nursery” for generously donating many dragon wing begonias and vinca vines for our students to plant and care for.

Spring Planting!

As always-stroll through our gallery for updated spring photos!

 K.C.K.E.C.C. Spotlight:  Star Teacher, Kerri Schreiber

Each year all staff members are given the opportunity to nominate a star teacher candidate.  Each candidate then submits information regarding their educational philosophy, career history and future vision which is reviewed buy a panel for final selection.  Congratulations to Kerri for receiving this year’s honor.  Kerri serves K.C.K.E.C.C. as a speech language pathologist.  She is instrumental in classroom planning and lesson delivery.  Kerri also serves as an S.L.C. leader and is our building IDP representative.  Thank you to Kerri for all she does to support both students and staff.  You are awesome! 

Miss Kerri With Her Students

 

Spotlight on You:  International Visitors Council of Kansas City

Our school recently had the privilege of hosting an international group of travelers.  Arranged through the International Visitors Council of Kansas City, the tour brought the Ukrainian visitors to KCK to meet with government and county administrators, as well as  visits to several district #500 schools.  KCKECC was fortunate enough to be one of those schools.  The group enjoyed a tour through the building and a brief question and answer session.  We were honored to be a part of their visit to America.  Come back anytime!

Our Ukrainian Friends!

 

Instructional Focus: Picture Word Induction Model (PWIM)

The Picture Word Inductive Model, or PWIM, is an often used strategy here at KCKECC.  PWIM uses  large pictures containing familiar objects, actions and scenes to expand the listening and speaking vocabularies of our students. This model helps students add words to their vocabulary while also discovering phonetic and structural elements in words and phrases. First, the pictures are closely examined by students.  The teacher and students then list and post words or phrases that represent the picture. The pictures and words are revisited as a class over and over again. This effective pre-reading activity puts our students on the road to becoming successful readers and writers!

Classroom Example of PWIM

 

Website of the Month:

Our website this month is http://www.storyplace.org.  This fun and interactive website features stories for children of all ages in both English and Spanish.  You can browse stories by theme or age level.  There is even a whole library dedicated just to preschool!  Check it out!

May at KCKECC… 

-National Teacher Appreciation Week, May 2-May 6:  We love our teachers!!!!

Teachers Hard At Work

-Multi-cultural Night, May 10, 5:00 P.M., K.C.K.E.C.C.:  Get your passport stamped for fun as we take part in a trip around the world.  Families of both staff and students have been invited to share stories, customs, games, music and toys from their culture.  Join us for a fun and informative evening! 

-School Wide Bake Sale, May 10, 5:00 P.M., K.C.K.E.C.C.:  We are holding a bake sale in conjunction with our multi-cultural night.  Staff will donate cakes, cookies, brownies and pies to be sold to benefit our school. Come and purchase a sweet treat to benefit K.C.K.E.C.C. 

-Graduation: All graduations will be held the week of May 16^th.  Congratulations graduates!

-Memorial Day, May 30:  School will not be in session.  Staff and students will observe the holiday among friends and family.

-Last Day for Students, May 31:  Have a great summer!

How You Can Help 

We appreciate all the donations of time and resources that we receive daily here at K.C.K.E.C.C.  If you are interested in helping there are a few things we could always use: 

• We are strong participants in the “Box Tops for Education” program!  For every box top we collect we receive money that goes straight to our students.  This might be to help fund a field trip, purchase classroom supplies or bring in special visitors.  Please check your grocery store items (cereal, crackers, Kleenex, plastic bags, etc.) and consider donating your General Mills box tops to K.C.K.E.C.C.  Please continue to collect over the summer months for our school.
• Best Choice UPC Codes:  This is similar to the box top collection program, but it takes many more.  For every 1,000 Best Choice UPC labels collected our school receives $30.00.  The UPC label can be from any best choice product.  Please remember us! Please continue to collect over the summer months for our school.
• We have an ongoing collection for the homeless.  We can always use nonperishable food items and monetary donations to pass along to those in need.  Thank you.
• In honor of a very special pre-k colleague, we have established the Baby Garrett and Jessica Love Fund.  Baby Garrett and Jessica were two unforgettable individuals who passed on all too prematurely.  To honor the memory of these individuals, KCKECC has set up a LOVE FUND to be used for expenses that directly relate to our early childhood program students…eyeglasses for a child who cannot afford them, scholarship events for any special events, funeral expenses if we were ever to suffer a loss.  Your contribution is welcome.  Contact us for further information (see the “Contact Us” link on our blog).  

April Adventures!

What’s Happening in Preschool? 

Spring has sprung at KCKECC!  With spring comes the opportunity for new learning.  All of our SLCs are exploring the Zoo theme this month.  Wild animals and jungle adventures are all a part of the fun as we learn.  As you can see, we are even learning to read and write about animals! 

We started April by welcoming our families to our building with Family Advocacy Day on April 6.  This was an excellent opportunity for families to conference with teachers, prepare for the upcoming transition to kindergarten, check out our Preschool Art Fair and stop by our book fair.  What a busy day!  Stroll through our gallery for more April fun!

Art Fair!

Book Fair!

Getting Ready for Kindergarten!

Round Up is coming!  We will soon be enrolling for the 2011-2012 school year. The Kansas City, Kansas Early Childhood Program provides high quality, free, early education for four year olds (as of August 31) in the Kansas City, Kansas area.  Our students attend preschool four (Mon.-Fri. No Wed,) ½ day sessions each week, following the Kansas City, Kansas School district calendar. Students will be eligible if they meet one or more of the following criteria:

-Single parent (Custodial parent is unmarried)

-Limited English determined by KSDE guidelines

-Family Income approved for free meals

-SRS letter of referral

-Either parent without a high school diploma or GED

-Teen Parent (when child was born)

-Family enrolled in a Migrant Program Certificate on file with KSDE

-Child is developmentally/academically delayed based on assessments. (not on a current IEP)

Enrollment for 2011-2012 school year will be Tuesday April 19, 1:00-2:30 and 4:00-6:00 if the child’s last name begins with A-M or Thursday April 21, 1:00-2:30 and 4:00-6:00 if the child’s last name begins with N-Z.  You will need to bring proof of residence, child’s birth certificate, current physical and vaccination records.

 K.C.K.E.C.C. Spotlight:  Administrative Professionals

April 27 is administrative professional’s day.  We are so fortunate to have two of the best administrative professionals around at KCKECC!  Our full time secretary, Renee Madden, has been with us for 7 years.  Just this year, Jan Huston has joined us for our afternoon session.  If we were to try and list all the ways these ladies support us it would stretch to the moon and back.  These women truly are the unsung heroes of our preschool. There are no words to express our gratitude.  Thank you–we love you!

Ms. Renee

 

 

Ms. Jan

 

Spotlight on You:  Kimberly-Clark Paper Products

We never cease to be amazed by the giving spirit of our community!  This month we’d like to thank Kimberly-Clark paper products and our contact, Scott Spicer, for donations of diapers and other paper products.  As anyone can well imagine, a building which houses 500 three, four and five year olds could not function without diapers, paper towels and napkins.  When we buy these items by the truckload the cost adds up quickly!  Thank you so much to Kimberly-Clark for your help in this area.

Instructional Focus: Readable Text

“My cat’s name is Monster.”

“My cat’s name is Midnight.”

“My cat’s name is Fluffy.”

  We often think of reading as just sounding out letters and putting words together. In reality, there is much more that goes into teaching a child how to read.  Children must learn language patterns, text organization and punctuation, among other things.  Our teachers have begun exposing students to these elements to prepare them to be successful readers and writers in the future.  By sharing familiar words and phrases with our students and allowing them to “read” these back, we are building important foundational literacy skills. We hope that by making these initial experiences successful and positive we are creating confident and capable readers.

Classroom Example of Readable Text

Website of the Month:

Our website this month is www.eric-carle.com.   Eric Carle is the very talented author of many beautiful picture books.  Brown Bear, Brown Bear What Do You See? and The Very Hungry Caterpillar are two of Carle’s most popular books. This website has many features, including a museum of his artwork, games and stories, short videos of Carle creating his art and his own personal blog.  Take a few minutes and explore this site with a child! 

April at KCKECC… 

-JoHo Storyteller, April 1 and 4: Our classrooms will welcome local storyteller JoHo to share stories of fun and adventure with our students and staff.

-Family Advocacy Day, April 6:  Join us for a fun and informative day!  We will offer information about transitions to kindergarten, as well as preschool art fair and a preschool book fair.

-Nelson Atkins Museum of Fine Art Field Trip, April 5 and 7: SLC II will make a real life connection to the Museum Unit by visiting the Nelson Art Gallery.

-Happy Bear Presented by Sunflower House, April 5 and 7:  Happy Bear is a safe and non-threatening character used to teach our students about welcome and unwelcome touches.  By empowering our students with this knowledge we hope to prevent potentially harmful situations from occurring. 

Happy Bear!

-Fitness Thursday/Muscular Dystrophy Hop-A-Thon, April 14:  Our fitness Thursday this month is a fundraiser for muscular dystrophy.  Our students will collect money and then jump rope to support the cause.  Be sure and watch for us on the Jerry Lewis Telethon in August.  

-Crazy Hair Day, April 15: Braids, beads, blue—anything goes!  Our students will show school spirit with wild hair.  Watch for pictures next month!

-Preschool Round Up, April 19 and 21:  We will hold Preschool Round Up two days this year. Enrollment for 2011-2012 school year will be Tuesday April 19, 1:00-2:30 and 4:00-6:00 if the child’s last name begins with A-M or Thursday April 21, 1:00-2:30 and 4:00-6:00 if the child’s last name begins with N-Z. 

-R.I.F. Book Distribution, April 21 and 22: Each student will receive a high quality children’s book provided by the ‘Reading Is Fun” program.  We will welcome the Red Cross to join us for our event with a fun and informative read aloud of “The very Hungry Caterpillar”.

-Administrative Professional’s Day, April 27: Hooray for Ms. Renee and Ms. Jan!

-KCKECC Field Day, April 29:  Lace up your tennis shoes!  It’s time for fun and games on our annual field day!

How You Can Help 

We appreciate all the donations of time and resources that we receive daily here at K.C.K.E.C.C.  If you are interested in helping there are a few things we could always use: 

• We are strong participants in the “Box Tops for Education” program!  For every box top we collect we receive money that goes straight to our students.  This might be to help fund a field trip, purchase classroom supplies or bring in special visitors.  Please check your grocery store items (cereal, crackers, Kleenex, plastic bags, etc.) and consider donating your General Mills box tops to K.C.K.E.C.C.
• Best Choice UPC Codes:  This is similar to the box top collection program, but it takes many more.  For every 1,000 Best Choice UPC labels collected our school receives $30.00.  The UPC label can be from any best choice product.  Please remember us!
• We have an ongoing collection for the homeless.  We can always use nonperishable food items and monetary donations to pass along to those in need.  Thank you.
• In honor of a very special pre-k colleague, we have established the Baby Garrett and Jessica Love Fund.  Baby Garrett and Jessica were two unforgettable individuals who passed on all too prematurely.  To honor the memory of these individuals, KCKECC has set up a LOVE FUND to be used for expenses that directly relate to our early childhood program students…eyeglasses for a child who cannot afford them, scholarship events for any special events, funeral expenses if we were ever to suffer a loss.  Your contribution is welcome.  Contact us for further information (see the “Contact Us” link on our blog).  

“March”ing Through Preschool!

What’s Happening in Preschool?

 

 

In like a lamb-we welcome March! It has been a long, cold winter and we here at the Kansas City, Kansas Early Childhood Center are ready for spring. This is evidenced through SLC I’s exploration of camping and the great outdoors! SLC III and SLC IV hammer out fun as they learn all about construction! Stop by SLC II to view priceless works of art as they discover the museum.

Dinaosaurs in our Museum

Setting Up Camp!

Watch Us Build!

March 3 marked what would have been the 107th birthday of famed children’s author Dr. Seuss. Dr. Seuss is one of our most popular authors among staff and students alike. We will participate in a school wide “read in” and a Dr. Seuss character dress up day in recognition of his special day. Check out our wonderful, funderful Dr. Seuss activities! Stroll through our gallery for even more March excitement!

2 Cat in the Hats Equal Double the Fun!

 

Thing 1, Thing 2 and Their Star Bellied Sneeches!

K.C.K.E.C.C. Spotlight: Para-Professionals

It takes a village to raise a child. We have so many wonderful people working in our “village” to ensure that our students receive the best possible school experience. Among the most valuable of these individuals are our para-professionals. Our paras work shoulder to shoulder with our classroom teachers throughout all aspects of the school day. Assisting with planning and preparation, supporting classroom instruction and aiding our little ones in their daily routines are just a few of the many responsibilities our paras take on. It is no exaggeration to say that our school could not function without them. Thank you to our paras, Debbie Reid, Tamika Buycks, Carolyn Delgado, Jenise Hattley, Maralyn Robinson, Theresa Smith, Evette Ozkan, Laura Beard, Janae Newman, Denise Shatto, Bobbie Malone, LaShawn Alberty, Shawna Brizendine, Irene Ordanez and Roxanne Richerson. You are loved!

Miss Debbie Helping at Meal Time

 

 

Thank You Ms. LaShawn!

 

Miss Theresa Helps Out!

Spotlight on You: Kappa Gamma Chapter of Phi Tau Omega Sorority

We’d once again like to recognize the Kappa Gamma Chapter of the Phi Tau Omega Sorority. Your continued generosity with your time and resources truly makes a difference in the lives of our students and their families. Your donations of box tops, arts and crafts materials and party supplies are more than appreciated! The representatives of the Kappa Gamma Chapter include: president Susan Barker, vice president Alice Bright, recording secretary Kathy Anselmi, social secretary Theresa Collins, scribe Rose Brinker, treasurer Barbara Dahmer, sergeant-at-arms Darcy Keefe and historian Laura Castillo. Thank you ladies!

Instructional Focus: “I Can” Statements

I can write my name. I can count to 30. I can move to the music. These are all examples of statements you might find posted around our school building. All teachers in our building have recently started providing “ I can” statements for activities in the classroom. These statements serve a number of purposes. They aid the student in understanding the focus of the lesson, they create a more concrete meaning for the student through literally spelling out the objective and they provide an explanation of the lesson to anyone who might be visiting the classroom. You can find these statements written in “kid friendly” language created specifically for each lesson. Because our students are pre-readers in preschool, our teachers also provide a visual with each statement. These “I can” statements are a practical and effective strategy to raise the quality of instruction for our students.

One of our "I Can" Activities

Website of the Month: www.starfall.com 

We are starting a new monthly blog feature here at KCKECC-What’s the Buzz. Our literacy committee has researched many highly effective and motivating educational websites for children. We want to share these with you. We’ll introduce a new website each month and provide you with a link to that site.

Our website this month is www.starfall.com. Starfall supports a number of concepts of literacy, including letter and letter sound recognition. There are also several stories and games available for children. Check it out!

March at KCKECC:

-“Go for the Green” Food Drive: We will be collecting nonperishables through March 10, 2011 for donation to Harvesters. Please feel free to stop by, drop off and help us out!

-Dr. Seuss’s Birthday: March 2, Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss!

Miss Evette Gets in the Spirit!

-School Wide “Read In” : March 4, All students and staff will drop what they are doing and read for 20 minutes each session. Our “Read In” will be from 10:40 to 11:00 in the AM session and from 2:40-3:00 in the PM session. See lots more pictures in gallery!

Reading with Ms. Kelly's Class

-Fitness Thursday: We here at KCKECC know that it is just as important to have a healthy body as it is to have a healthy mind. Every other Thursday we use our recess time to target a specific fitness area. Our fitness Thursday falls on March 3rd this month.

-Spring Break: All students and staff will be off March 14-March 18 for a well deserved break. We are hoping for lots of sun!

 -Block Fest/Health Fair Family Night: March 23, 5:00-6:30, Families of preschool students are encouraged to attend this fun and informative evening. Families will have a choice of two sessions. Our block fest explores block play and informs families how to make the most of this simple but fun activity (limited space available). Our health fair will provide families with helpful information around health, exercise and nutrition.

 -JoHo Storyteller: March 28 and 29, Our classrooms will welcome local storyteller JoHo to share stories of fun and adventure with our students and staff.

How You Can Help:

We appreciate all the donations of time and resources that we receive daily here at K.C.K.E.C.C. If you are interested in helping there are a few things we could always use:

• We are strong participants in the “Box Tops for Education” program! For every box top we collect we receive money that goes straight to our students. This might be to help fund a field trip, purchase classroom supplies or bring in special visitors. Please check your grocery store items (cereal, crackers, Kleenex, plastic bags, etc.) and consider donating your General Mills box tops to K.C.K.E.C.C.

• Best Choice UPC Codes: This is similar to the box top collection program, but it takes many more. For every 1,000 Best Choice UPC labels collected our school receives $30.00. The UPC label can be from any best choice product. Please remember us!

• We have an ongoing collection for the homeless. We can always use nonperishable food items and monetary donations to pass along to those in need. Thank you.

• In honor of a very special pre-k colleague, we have established the Baby Garrett and Jessica Love Fund. Baby Garrett and Jessica were two unforgettable individuals who passed on all too prematurely. To honor the memory of these individuals, KCKECC has set up a LOVE FUND to be used for expenses that directly relate to our early childhood program students…eyeglasses for a child who cannot afford them, scholarships for any special events, funeral expenses if we were ever to suffer a loss. Your contribution is welcome. Contact us for further information (see the “Contact Us” link on our blog).

Delightful December!

What’s Happening in Preschool?

Welcome December and Happy Holidays! As we wrap up our second quarter at the Kansas City, Kansas Early Childhood Center, we had many exciting activities and visitors during the month of December.  Thanks for dropping by to check out what is going on with the students, staff, and families of KCKECC.

Although each SLC had a different theme this month, all revolved around family and the holidays.  No matter if you were shopping for presents at different stores, chasing after the Gingerbread Man, or traveling from one location to another using different types of transportation, the focus was on fun learning!  Check out our gallery for all of these fun events.

We had many events from Thanksgiving to Winter break including a Thanksgiving feast of homemade vegetable soup where children and parents both participated, 



Children from SLC III made homemade vegetable soup and shared it "Feast-style"!

 a family night explaining what Dialogic Reading is all about,

Students were able to choose a book from our RIF (Reading is Fundamental) distribution and practice reading with their parents using Dialogic Reading strategies to promote language.

  a visit from Santa Claus,

Santa Claus visited with the students, asked them what they wanted, and gave them a bag full of goodies to take home.

 pajama day, and holiday parties to name a few…

Children wore their pajamas to school, and made edible holiday trees during their holiday party.

 

K.C.K.E.C.C. Spotlight:  Jackie Hostetler, Teacher Leader

Teacher leader, Jackie Hostetler, is a valued member of the KCKECC staff.  She helps organize the distribution of our Reading is Fundamental books (RIF), conducts observations of classrooms and provides feedback to the teachers of ways to reach students in different ways, started this school website,  provides assistance to teachers when they need extra support in the classroom, and much more. 

Ms. Jackie was a spider for her costume.

Recently, Ms. Jackie was blessed with the birth of her first child, son Hayden.  Although she is currently enjoying her little one at home, she is greatly missed at this time, and the staff and children will be happy for her return.

Ms. Jackie's baby, Hayden.

  

Upcoming Events at KCKECC….

-Classes resume on January 6^th: Winter break will come to an end, and classes will resume on Thursday, January 6^th 2011.

 -No school on Monday, January 17^th: In honor of Martin Luther King Jr., school will be closed on Monday, January 17^th.

-Fitness Thursday: We here at KCKECC know that it is just as important to have a healthy body as it is to have a healthy mind.  Every other Thursday we use our recess time to target a specific fitness area.  Our fitness Thursday falls on January 20th this month. 

 -Family Advocacy Day: Our building is hosting a Family Advocacy Day on Wednesday, February 2nd.  Our day will include family conferences and more…. (look for more information in the near future).

 

How You Can Help 

We appreciate all the donations of time and resources that we receive daily here at K.C.K.E.C.C.  If you are interested in helping there are a few things we could always use: 

• We are strong participants in the “Box Tops for Education” program!  For every box top we collect we receive money that goes straight to our students.  This might be to help fund a field trip, purchase classroom supplies or bring in special visitors.  Please check your grocery store items (cereal, crackers, Kleenex, plastic bags, etc.) and consider donating your General Mills box tops to K.C.K.E.C.C.
• Best Choice UPC Codes:  This is similar to the box top collection program, but it takes many more.  For every 1,000 Best Choice UPC labels collected our school receives $30.00.  The UPC label can be from any best choice product.  Please remember us!
• We have an ongoing collection for the homeless.  We can always use nonperishable food items and monetary donations to pass along to those in need.  Thank you.
• In honor of a very special pre-k colleague, we have established the Baby Garrett and Jessica Love Fund.  Baby Garrett and Jessica were two unforgettable individuals who passed on all too prematurely.  To honor the memory of these individuals, KCKECC has set up a LOVE FUND to be used for expenses that directly relate to our early childhood program students…eyeglasses for a child who cannot afford them, scholarship events for any special events, funeral expenses if we were ever to suffer a loss.  Your contribution is welcome.  Contact us for further information (see the “Contact Us” link on our blog).