5s (Kindergarten)
Ages 5-6 years old
Overview
Our 5s program focuses all of the elements of our younger year’s programs through a lens of preparing for their children’s ongoing education. Teachers weave their understanding of first grade readiness skills, both academic and social/emotional, into project work and daily interactions. Children are encouraged to explore leadership roles within the classroom and the school as a whole, and an emphasis is placed on investigating their roles as individuals within a larger community. This year is designed for children who are 5 years old who may go on to either Kindergarten or 1st grade the following year. For this reason, we have designed our 5s program to ensure that children are prepared academically and socially for 1st grade. Our goal is for children to leave our 5s program confident in their abilities as a capable, well-rounded, curious learner and a thoughtful, reflective member of their community.
Enrollment Options
For ages 4–6, we offer 3 or 5 day schedules (and the choice between full or half days). As children reach this stage, their learning becomes more collaborative, sustained, and connected across days. These schedules support deeper engagement in ongoing work, the development of strong relationships, and a growing sense of belonging within the group.
Daily Schedule Elements
Teachers are cognizant of what will be expected of the children as they leave for first grade, and work to find natural and thoughtful entry points for integrating academic concepts into project work, ensuring instruction is aligned with Connecticut State Standards for Kindergarten. Children are challenged to reflect on their learning and represent their thinking in multiple ways, and are encouraged to take ownership over their contributions to work in the classroom, school, and the greater community. Morning and reflection meetings have evolved to include time for children to present their work to the group, describing both their work and thought processes as well as fielding questions from their classmates.