413-362-1610
Dear Parent/Guardian of Preschooler,
Thank you for your interest in
the
Program Philosophy
Young children in an integrated setting learn from each other. They learn developmental skills (cognitive, social/emotional, communication, fine and large muscle skills) as well as acceptance of themselves and other as unique individuals. Integrated preschool settings enable all children to participate to their fullest capacities in the mainstream of education. Special support services are provided within the classroom in a functional and relevant manner.
The classes are structured to further the total development of each child. Activities and curriculum are developed based on children’s interest and guided by the Department of Education Early Childhood Program Standards. Field trips are part of the learning process and we take advantage of the community at large to support the classroom activities. Learning takes place for children through a wide variety of play opportunities and interactions with both age level peers and adults. We enjoy sand and water play, block building, fantasy play, art projects, reading books together, singing and movement games, as well as working on puzzles, turn taking games and much more. We play outside every day (weather permitting) offering ride-on-toys, a play structures and games. Our classes are language rich environments with an emphasis on children learning to be part of a larger group given a nurturing early educational environment.
We hope that the parents/guardians who choose to apply do so not only because we have strong staff, beautiful facilities, and a low tuition, but also because they want their child to have the experience of being part of a program that celebrates diversity and welcomes all children. Parents/guardians are a vital part of their child’s development and education. We therefore encourage parent/guardian participation directly or indirectly in the classroom. We hope that the parents/guardians who choose to apply do so not only because we have strong staff, beautiful facilities, and a low tuition, but also because they want their child to have the experience of being part of a program that celebrates diversity and welcomes all children.
Application Process
Children must be residents of
Applications for September enrollment must be completed and returned to me by February 15th. Since we often have more applicants than available spaces, the selection process occurs in the last week in February for the coming school year. Before final acceptance, children are invited to spend an afternoon or morning in the program. If a child attends at age three, she/he may return the following year if parents/guardians and staff concur that the program is meeting the individual child’s needs.
Program Options - We currently offer five different program options:
¨ 4 mornings Monday through Thursday 8:30-12:00; $2205/school year
¨ 4 mornings Monday through Thursday 8:30-11:30; $1890/school year
*Extended day option available until 1:00; total cost: $2835/school year
¨ 5 mornings Monday through Friday 8:30-11:30; $2363/school year
*Extended day
option available until 1:00; total cost:
$3387/school year
¨ 5 mornings Monday through Friday 8:30-12:00; $2756/school year
¨ 2 afternoons Monday and Tuesday 1:00-3:00; $630/school year
*Given that the extended day
program meets until 1:00, the additional cost covers the extended time. Children staying until 1:00 eat lunch at
school; lunch is provided from home or can be purchased through the school
lunch program.
Reduced tuition is available for income eligible families on a sliding scale.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at (413) 362-1610. Please remember to indicate your preference for program options on the application form.
Sincerely,
Janet Ryan
Early Education Coordinator
ryanj@arps.org