Academics

Early Childhood

The Louise Hizer Early Childhood Center includes three sections: PreSchool for 2- and 3-year-olds; and PreKindergarten for 4-year-olds. Classroom work extends to other parts of the campus and the community, including the Great Room, where imaginations flourish; the state-of-the-art playground, where lifelong friendships evolve; and the Outdoor Classroom, where nature speaks and young minds listen. Each individual is expected to develop in all areas through a plan rich in diversity.

Our PreSchool 2 and PreSchool 3 classes foster the development of a growth mindset as the children are introduced to a broad range of intellectual, physical, artistic, and social experiences to provide a solid foundation. Goals include reading readiness; a basis for understanding mathematics; good physical and personal habits; appreciation of music, art, and poetry; cultural and environmental sensitivity; and responsible sharing and conversation with other children and adults. Students are given an introduction to Spanish through participation in songs and games as early as Preschool 2.

The formal curriculum begins in PreKindergarten for 4-year-olds through an integrated hands-on approach that includes the academic disciplines and is aligned with national preschool learning expectations. The program is enhanced by a variety of experiences including art, physical education, music, Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, robotics, and media.

Family involvement is a hallmark of the Early Childhood division. Parents participate in a weekly Morning Opening where the children practice their speaking and listening skills through musical presentations. In addition, there are monthly special events where families come together and participate in engaging activities. Favorites include Father’s Day Olympics, Fall Hoedown, International Morning, Big Truck Day, the Easter Parade, and Mother’s Day Picnic.