There is a saying that “the early bird gets the worm.” Although that is not what John Ray meant when he wrote it in a book of English proverbs in the 1600s, it can also apply toward the field of education. Research shows that high-quality early childhood education will not only make children better communicators at an early age, but will also give them better learning skills that can help them throughout their lives.
Studies have found that children who attended high-quality early childhood programs were less likely to be placed in special education, less likely to be retained in a grade, and more likely to graduate from high school than peers who did not attend such programs. The early years are critical in laying the groundwork for literacy learning.
Pre-Kindergarten: Purposeful, Planned, Playful
Pre-Kindergarten classes are offered both full day and half day at many of our campuses. Those qualifying for free Pre-Kindergarten are encouraged to register now to ensure space availability. To register, go to https://www.nisd.net/schools/registration.
To qualify, a child must be four-years-old on or before Sept. 1. They also must be one of the following: educationally disadvantaged (income eligible), limited English speaker, homeless, under the care of DPS/Foster Care, a child of an active duty member of the U.S. Armed Forces, the child of a family member that was killed or injured during active military duty, or the child of a person eligible for the Star of Texas award.
The Northside ISD Pre-K program focuses on meeting the needs of the whole child academically, socially, and emotionally including essential foundational skills in early literacy, math, and science.
“Northside is committed to providing an environment that is purposeful, planned, and playful, meeting the diverse needs of our youngest students,” says Misty Gann, a PreKindergarten Collaborative teacher at Boone Elementary School.
Registration is open now. For questions, contact your neighborhood campus or call 210-397-8780.
For additional details go to https://www.nisd.net/schools/pre-k.
Kindergarten: Building Blocks to Success
To be eligible for Kindergarten, children must be five years old on or before Sept. 1.
Kindergarten students are taught concepts to develop skills in reading, writing, math, science, and social studies. They also are exposed to and grow in the areas of computer, art, music, and physical education.
“Through hands-on and purposefully planned learning opportunities, our kindergarten students develop the foundations of mathematics and literacy,” says Barbara Triplett, PreK and Kindergarten Specialist. “Students explore science and social studies through an integrated approach that builds on their unique interests and experiences.”