Central to the meeting was the introduction of a new approach to preschool education that emphasizes hands-on, exploratory learning. This method aims to cultivate a scientific mindset among young learners by integrating the natural environment into everyday learning experiences. For example, educators encourage children to explore weather changes by experiencing snow and observing seasonal shifts in trees. They complement these activities with thematic book selections to maintain children’s interest and engagement. This method aligns with the “creative curriculum,” which promotes creativity and individuality without traditional assessments, focusing instead on observing and tracking progress through engagement in activities.

Educators also highlighted the importance of “choice time,” allowing preschoolers to make decisions about their activities, thereby fostering independence and responsibility. Activities such as fishing for letters and creating snow-themed projects were cited as examples of engaging children in literacy and comprehension through play. The educators stressed the importance of scaffolding children’s play based on their interests, which leads to organic learning experiences. They explained that when children have the freedom to explore and choose, they learn to read and write naturally, often before formal literacy instruction begins.

The board also addressed the significant issue of reduced state funding, which has led to program cuts across the district. The superintendent discussed ongoing advocacy efforts at the state level to secure additional funding to alleviate the financial strain on the district. The $30 million referendum passed for capital improvements was mentioned as a step towards enhancing facilities, although the funding reduction remains a concern. Despite these challenges, the board assured parents that academic learning, social development, and student safety remain top priorities.

Safety measures were a focal point of the meeting, with the board underscoring the need to fortify school entrances and classrooms. This shift in protocol aims to create a safer environment in response to evolving security concerns. The meeting covered collaborations with local police departments, which involve conducting drills and familiarizing law enforcement with school layouts for effective emergency responses. A significant change discussed was the cessation of allowing parents to accompany their children into classrooms on the first day of school due to safety concerns. This decision, though unpopular, was deemed necessary to control building access and ensure only authorized individuals enter the premises.

The logistics of the preschool program were also addressed, including the structure and operations of wraparound care, which blends childcare and educational support. This program extends school hours, allowing parents to enroll their children in before and after care from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The tuition for the wraparound care is set at $9,200 for the 2024-2025 school year, while the preschool-only program costs $4,950. The board emphasized fiscal management with the goal of maintaining a revenue-neutral operation without reallocating resources from the K-12 population.

The inclusion of individualized instruction was also discussed, particularly in multi-age classrooms. Educators adapt activities to match each child’s developmental stage, ensuring that all students, regardless of abilities or needs, can participate meaningfully. This differentiation extends to providing special seating arrangements or allowing breaks as necessary for students with specific needs. The inclusion classrooms, which have an additional certified teacher, were highlighted as a model for an inclusive learning environment that benefits all students.

Additionally, the meeting covered enrollment logistics, with a deadline set for February 3rd for preschool registration. The board urged parents to attend the registration event and provided a checklist of required documentation. Parents were also informed about the availability of slots and the importance of indicating their need for wraparound care during registration. Positive feedback from parents underscored the program’s success in fostering children’s development.