In August of 2012, we launched our first Transitional Kindergarten Program at Opals Cliffs School in the Soquel Union Elementary School District. Building a new school was the perfect setting for the dynamic Transitional Kindergarten (TK) program that was developed by our teacher Ms. Michelle McBride, and our instructional aide Ms. Kay Johnson. These two individuals have created an exciting setting that nurtures our children in a learning environment of exploration.
Transitional Kindergarten is a developmentally appropriate, activity-based class that serves to build a foundation for early learners and prepare them for what lies ahead. Every activity is carefully chosen with great intention to improve the students’ abilities. No matter how much it looks like “only play,” it is actually a motor skill, academic concept, or interpersonal skill. The simplest activity can be used to teach any number of skills. Having confidence in the students and the patience to let them grow at their own pace are two hallmarks of our program. The systematic scaffolding of every subject, always planned with an eye towards what’s expected next year and a deep understanding of child development, allows every child to be confident in their abilities and be challenged.
Michelle McBride often met with district personnel during the construction planning meetings of the new school. She offered insight regarding the interior design of her classroom for the TK students. Her vast experience working with children in the area of early childhood development was a tremendous asset as we created a classroom that lends itself to group activities. TK students have an exciting day. They are constantly dancing, playing and engaging in fun curriculum. Music plays a big part of the TK program.
We are very fortunate to have a gifted musician, Mr. Mike Jones, who volunteers his time every other Friday to provide interactive music for our children. Mr. Jones is a recent retired teacher of our district who knows many of the parents in our TK class. There is a tremendous sense of community that exists at Opal Cliffs School. Parents are highly involved in classroom activities and in assisting Ms. McBride and Ms. Johnson with their lessons.
Having a school site dedicated for the TK program has enabled our children to have the time to develop their skills in preparation for traditional kindergarten. Our TK program provides the needed support as our children develop their skills at various levels.
We want children to be highly successful at school and we want children to have a rich learning environment that include the arts, music, physical education, fun academia and a sense of community service.
Two community service projects that our TK program completed this year was a bake sale, “Cookies for Cancer” and a beach clean-up in conjunction with Save Our Shores.
As the school year comes to a close, we all are very proud of the wonderful cultivating program that has been created by Ms. McBride and Ms. Johnson and the wonderful parents and volunteers that have been actively involved throughout this year at Opal Cliffs School. The sense of community is truly the backbone to this wonderful program. I strongly encourage any parent who is interested in visiting our TK program to call Janet Lindenbaum at (831) 464-5639 to arrange for a visitation.
Our TK program at Opal Cliffs School has been so successful that we already have one full class for next year and have started a waiting list for a possible second class. Children who are not ready for a traditional kindergarten academic program should consider placement in a TK program. A very special thank you goes out to all of you who made our new school a wonderful place for our transitional kindergarten students.
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To contact Henry Castaniada Email: [email protected] • www.soqueldo.santacruz.k12.ca.us