I would like to welcome all of our new families as well as our alumni families to the Bethpage Cooperative Nursery School. I am certain that your experience at our school will be memorable. The teachers and I strive to provide your children with an education that nurtures the growth and development of the "whole child." Our curriculum is based on the "Creative Curriculum." We utilize developmentally appropriate practices that encourage the development of social, emotional, physical and cognitive abilities.
This year I have asked the teachers to individualize instruction by planning activities that address the multiple intelligences as described by Howard Gardner. The multiple intelligences are: linguistic/verbal, logical/mathematical, musical/rhythmic, spatial/visual, bodily/kinesthetic, interpersonal, intrapersonal and naturalist. Many children are able to learn using all of the intelligences, however there are some children who learn best through one or two. We want to be certain that our students are given the opportunity to "exercise" their intelligences, therefore the teachers will be planning activities that encourage: speaking, listening, observing, discussing, touching, playing, figuring, manipulating, constructing, deconstructing, using the arts, dancing, singing and connecting. I believe that using Gardner's model of the multiple intelligences in the classroom will create a positive and successful learning experience for the teachers and children alike.
If you have any questions regarding our curriculum or teaching practices, please feel free to contact me.
Fondly,
Ms Joanie
Communication
We all know that communication is the "key to success and happiness." So, I am asking you to make every effort to talk to me, the board and faculty. Nothing gets accomplished when we stand on the sideline and just "think" about issues that are of concern. I am MORE than happy to discuss issues as they arise. I will do my best to help you address them. There are several ways for you to communicate with the faculty and board:
1. Each faculty and board member has a mailbox in the main foyer for you to leave notes
2. Each nursery and pre k child has a folder that must be sent in/out of school daily. All correspondence can be put in the folder.
3. Utilize the anonymous comment box that is in the main foyer for those questions you are not sure about asking.
4. Call the school to report absences or to speak with the faculty 931-0811 between 9:00-9:30AM.
5. Email me at joanie@bethpagenurseryschool.org or call my cell at 385-0776.
6. Get to know your class parent and board members.
Playground Safety
Please make sure that your children are coming to school in comfortable play clothes and shoes suitable for running and climbing. Sandals and slip on shoes are prohibited. If your child is wearing inappropriate shoes we will have them sit on the bench during recess. This is a safety precaution.
Participation
This is the best way to be involved in your child's education. The teachers and I want you to enjoy your time in the classroom. Please take the time to review the participation guidelines before coming in to the classroom. Don't worry about forgetting things--the teaching assistants will help you out.
CELL PHONES MUST BE PUT ON SILENT MODE OR OFF during your participation day. As a parent I do understand the need to have your phone on. However, I am asking you to limit calls to emergencies only. Remember that you are in the classroom to be with your "someone special."
Healthy Snacks
Please try to remember that we would like to encourage the children to make wise choices about the food they eat. At the orientation meetings you were given a list of snacks that are "healthier" than other options. Obviously fruits, vegetables and whole grains are better for our bodies. Whenever possible bring in a snack that does not contain high fat, preservatives, high fructose corn syrup and hydrogenated oils. Birthdays and holidays are an exception to the rule. At all times remember that peanut products are strictly prohibited.
Remodeling
A HUGE thank you to Chris Calamia(Pre K AM) and John Looney (Pre K AM and 2 Tod Sep) for their construction projects at BNS. Chris with some help from Kevin Clyne (Pre K AM) and Joe Verdi (Pre K AM and Nursery PM) demolished and rebuilt the school kitchen. John and some of his friends installed plumbing and a bathroom in the lower level classroom. John also fixed the plumbing in the kitchen and set the sink to complete the project. Chris and John's expertise, time and dedication are most appreciated.
Our lower level classroom was also given a face lift over the summer by Eagle Scout James Fischer and his troop. The room was painted, had safety features added, vinyl pole wraps placed on columns and oak cabinets hung for storage.
Fundraising
Danielle Tesler and Lisa Chappell have many exciting events planned this year. Last year's fundraising allowed us to install the bathroom, remodel the kitchen and purchase a flat screen TV for the main room. This year the board would like to raise funds for a new water and sand tables for the toddlers and a new piece of playground equipment. The major goal for fundraising is to start raising money to resurface the playground.
FALL FESTIVAL
Please join us for the Fall Family Fun Festival on October 3 at 11:00 AM. I promise you will not be disappointed. Hope to see you there!
Calendar
Please refer to your school calendar for school closings and special events.
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