Pre-Kindergarten

Director of Early Childhood:  Patricia Vacca
Coordinator:  Susan Fikes
Secretary:  Luann Hollingsworth 
2010-11 Pre-Kindergarten
registration information
is located below.

What is Pre-Kindergarten? 
Pre-Kindergarten is a quality program that provides developmentally appropriate experiences that build on the children's natural love of learning. It recognizes that young children experience the world around them using all of their senses. It uses guided play as a tool for developing those skills that lead to successful school experiences. Lessons are based on the New York StateLearning Standards and the BOCES Pre-Kindergarten Prioritized Curriculum 
Where is Pre-Kindergarten available? 
Pre-Kindergarten is available in the Canastota, Stockbridge, and Oneida districts.

Who may attend Pre-Kindergarten? 
Any child is eligible to apply who will be 4 years old on or before December 1 and who live in the district being applied for. Enrollment is limited and eligibility guidelines may apply.

What does the Pre-Kindergarten program provide?  
This early childhood class is a place where children have fun while learning to develop an interest about themselves and the world around them, and become familiar with the routines of school. Opportunities are provided for children to socialize with other youngsters in a supervised learning environment where guidance can be given and where developmentally appropriate practices are emphasized. The Pre-K program provides a rich educational opportunity for children to meet their individual needs and encourages their love of learning. Good health and nutritional habits are emphasized, as well as a strong foundation for future physical development and communication skills. This literacy and language rich environment assists all children with their future listening, speaking, reading and writing skills.

The program collaborates with each school district nurse who:

• works with the families to make sure medical records are current.
• provides hearing, vision, and dental screenings for the students.

An Assistant for Family Services:

• encourages involvement by assisting families in becoming active participants in their child's early education so as to develop a strong relationship between home and school.
• provides access to the Parent Resource Lending Library which has several books and videos to borrow on such topics as discipline,divorce,illness,death, and toilet training. They also help families connect with other agencies for services that may be needed.
• facilitates the Parent Advisory Committee which each parent is encouraged to join. The committee meets monthly to discuss fundraisers, social events, and how they can contribute to benefit the classroom.
• develops at home parent and child activities.
• plans family at school events.

What does the Pre-K classroom look like?  
An average classroom consists of 18 children with one certified teacher and paraprofessional. Classes are in session Monday through Friday. Each classroom follows the school district's calendar in which they are located. Classrooms have a warm and inviting atmosphere allowing student exploration and learning through a variety of learning centers and activities. Parents are provided with the opportunity to be involved in their child's education in the classroom, at home, and through various organized groups and activities. Transportation is provided following each districts policy.

Is there a cost for my child to attend Pre-K?  
No, the program is free to each student.



Pre-Kindergarten
applications
for the 2010-11
school year
are available.

**How Do I Enroll My Child
In Oneida Pre-K?**

 To obtain an application, you may:
·  Call 363-2190
·  Pick one up at the Willard Prior Elementary office
·  Apply in person at registration
February 4-5, 2010.

February 4, 2010 - 4:30 to 6:00 PM at Willard Prior

February 5, 2010 - 8:45 - 11:00 AM at Oneida Castle or Willard Prior

February 5, 2010 12:00 to 3:00 PM at North Broad or Wilard Prior

 
**How Do I Enroll My Child
In Canastota or Stockbridge Pre-K?**

 To obtain an application, you may:
·  Call 361-5903
·  Pick one up at your school office
·  Use our online application links below
·  Apply in person at registration
January 26, 2010 for Stockbridge
and January 28, 2010 for Canastota.
(We have a Canastota and Stockbridge registration
information link below.) 


Your child will be considered for the
program when the following
forms/documents are completed
and received by our office:
· APPLICATION
· LUNCH FORM
· COPY OF YOUR CHILD'S
BIRTH CERTIFICATE
· COPY OF YOUR CHILD'S
IMMUNIZATION RECORD
· PROOF OF RESIDENCY
(copy of utility bill or mortgage/lease)
· TRANSPORTATION FORM
· HEALTH RECORD FORM
· INFORMATION FORM


You will find:
Oneida/Canastota/Stockbridge
registration information
and
Canastota/Stockbridge application pages
linked below.