Watching my girl Learn

The end of the school year is coming to a close.  Nea has had a great year at her new school and overall we have been very pleased with her progress.  She has met several of her goals and on track for others.  Her new IEP reflects progress and even more growth.  In short, a successful school year!

Nea's school teaches 3, 4 and 5 year olds and is accredited by The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).  You can imagine the standards they have to meet to achieve this accreditation and as I've said over and over again....we are so blessed to have them in our community.

The school celebrated The Week of The Young Child this week by having daily special events.  And when I say special, I mean special!  A petting zoo came to the school with chickens, goats, a pony, lambs, etc.  and there was also a trackless train giving rides that day.  For Nea, it doesn't get more special then this!  She loves animals and the train was certainly icing on the cake!  The school sing along included the principal with guitar in hand and teachers leading kids in this fun event!  Think pep rally, Pre-K style!  Parents are encouraged to attend and be a part of all the activities.  I think this is one of the many beautiful things about this school.

My schedule allowed me to attend the pinnacle of the week.....Big Truck Day!!  First I just have to say that our city leaders and businesses that participated get much MUCH love from me.  Volunteers are sent with their big trucks and spend all day at the school.

  For a young child, this open exploration is about the coolest thing since....well ever in their short little lives.  Not only are the trucks there but the kids are encouraged to get in, talk to the driver, learn what it does, etc.    Can you imagine the sort of learning that takes place in this type of environment?

I cannot rave enough about this week of events and the teachers/helpers/volunteers that make this happen for the youngsters in our community.   I watched in pure awe as teachers moved kids from one truck to another in a happy, energetic way.  I was tired after 2 trucks!  Nea's class is small (there were 9) and we had several adult hands.

Let's hope she doesn't  get comfy here

 Much like Nea, the kids in Nea's class tend to bolt and run so everyone needs a hand.  But the other classes with 20 students had 2 adults.  It's a good ratio, but it requires adult brain power like I've never seen.  These teachers are dynamic and exciting and the students will follow them like ducklings anywhere!

Back of the limousine!

Our first year at the school has been full of changes and full of exciting growth.  I've been so impressed that I volunteered to be the PTO President for the next school year, starting in August.  I think I will learn so much and I'm looking forward to being a part of something so exciting.  These teachers have a passion, and I can see it when I'm there.  It's nothing short of phenomenal.