High Scope
The Preschool Programs use the High Scope Curriculum approach to teaching and learning. Research-based and child-focused, the High Scope Curriculum uses a carefully designed process - called "active participatory learning" - to achieve powerful, positive outcomes. The High Scope Preschool Curriculum not only helps young children excel in language and cognitive learning but also promotes independence, curiosity, decision-making, cooperation, persistence, creativity, and problem solving - the fundamental skills that help determine success in adult life.
Small Group-Teachers develop intentional lessons to implement during small-group that emphasize one or more of the content areas. A group of 6-8 children engage in the lessons which are based on their interests and developmental needs. The teacher initiates and introduces the lesson and children have opportunities to make choices about how to use the materials and freely communicate their ideas. At the end of the period, children help with cleanup.
Content Areas
- Social and Emotional Development
- Language and Literacy Development
- English Language Development
- Cognition-Math & Science
- Physical Development–Health & Nutrition, Music & Movement
Large Group
Large group time builds a sense of community. Up to 20 children and two adults come together for movement and music activities, interactive storytelling, and other sharedexperiences. Children have many opportunities to make choices and play the role of leader.
Planning Time
Teachers meet with their primary group of children. Children think about what they want to do and describe their plan to the group. Teachers encourage and offer extensions for the children's chosen path.
Work Time
This is the longest portion of the day where children carry out their plans or shift to new activities that interest them. Children are encouraged to make choices, decisions and initiate their own activities. Teachers act as guides and facilitators supporting children's work.
Recall Time
The "review" portion of our day, children discuss what they have done and learned, and listen to the activities of the other children.
Sobrato Early Academic Language (SEAL)
Sobrato Early Academic Language (SEAL) is implemented at Bowers, Mayne, and Scott Lane and offers a model of intensive language development that builds a foundation for early language and literacy – beginning in preschool and continuing through the primary grades. Children use high-level, complex language to talk about what they are learning, express their feelings and thoughts, ask questions, make predictions, and think through solutions to academic and social problems and tasks. Teachers model rich, expressive language and create an environment where vocabulary and concepts come to life. Children learn through active hands-on play-based, project-based, inquiry-focused opportunities to engage their world.
