Woodland Park School District RE-2 Preschool
Where Play is More
Growing lifelong learners and meeting state standards through developmentally appropriate practice
Welcome to the Preschool Program at Columbine Elementary School!
At Columbine Elementary School...
1. We believe in the dignity of all people.
2. We believe in education for all students that contributes to their maturation as generative people.
3. We believe in a community.
Therefore, Columbine Preschool will…
· Honor your child’s Individuality while growing his Mind, Body and Heart
· Nurture a love of learning through:
· Building strong positive relationships
· Developmentally Appropriate Practice-Setting challenging but achievable goals for all children on their individual levels
· Providing a variety of sensory rich experiences
· Intentional PLAY!!
· Invite all families and community members to become involved to the greatest extent possible
About WPSD RE-2 Preschools
The Preschool program is Woodland Park School District's Early Intervention Program. There is a Preschool program at all three elementary schools. It is a developmentally appropriate preschool for children 3 to 5 years of age, including children with special needs and children who are eligible for the Colorado Preschool Program (CPP).
Highly qualified staff work with young children with challenging learning styles. Developmental screenings for children, aged birth through five are held to identify those who need further evaluation. Bimonthly team evaluations will be offered to identify children who need special services provided by the school district.
Please take a moment to read the following descriptions and prioritized categories for placing children into our program.
A. Special Needs: These children qualify for preschool program specialized services as determined by our district's Child Find team. A child must fall below the 7th percentile on a standardized evaluation tool in one area of development (social, motor, speech/language and/or cognitive areas). Preschool for these children is on a significantly reduced rate. Services provided are in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
B. Colorado Preschool Program (CPP): These children do not qualify for special education services; however, they are at risk for learning due to a variety of factors such as health, a mild developmental delay, crisis in the home, etc. In addition, a child must be eligible for kindergarten the following school year. Preschool for these children is on a significantly reduced rate.
C. Tuition: These children do not qualify for either Special Needs or the Colorado Preschool Program. These children are developing typically and pay tuition. Research has proven that there are benefits for all children to have blended classrooms where children with a variety of needs are integrated into the same setting.
Program Hours of Operation
The Preschool program is open Monday-Friday beginning at 7:20 and closing at 2:50. Our children have the choice of attending morning or afternoon preschool for four days a week (Monday through Thursday) OR a full day 7:20-3:00 program five days per week (Monday through Friday).
The sessions are scheduled as follows:
AM Sessions: M-TH 7:20-10:20
PM Sessions: M-TH 11:40-2:40
Full Day Session: M-F 7:20-2:50
We encourage children to attend each program in its entirety, but exceptions may be made through special request. There are specific requirements for attendance if you receive any tuition assistance.
The Preschool program follows the school district calendar. Please note that the four day Preschool ends one week earlier. Please check the calendar for important dates to remember throughout the school year!!
In Case of Bad Weather!
Local radio and television stations will be informed by 6:00AM about inclement weather schedule changes for Woodland Park School District. It is district policy to delay the start of school by two hours, cancel for the day, or release early to keep your child safe. In such cases, preschool will:
- If there is a snow day, then there is no school for anyone.
- If there is a delayed start, then AM Preschool will be cancelled and PM Preschool will take place as normal. Full Day will follow the same schedule as K-5.
- If there is an Early Release due to weather, AM will take place as normal and PM Preschool families will be notified. Full Day will follow the same schedule as K-5.
Registration/Admission Policy
To enroll your child in the Preschool Program the following steps must be taken:
1. Contact Columbine Elementary School and let them know you are interested in the Preschool program.
2. In order for your child to start preschool the following paperwork must be read, filled out and returned to the office or the Preschool Director. You may pick these forms up in the office or have them mailed to your home.
A. Enrollment Form
B. Immunization Record or Signed Exemption Form
C. Physical (current within 1 year)
D. Health Screening Questionnaire
F. Emergency Contact Form
G. Medicaid Form
H. Copy of Birth Certificate
I. Policies and Procedures Form
J. Release for Publication
K. Transportation Information
Please return all items to Columbine’s Main Office or Preschool Director. There will be a Spring and Summer Registration, but information will be taken all year.
Preschool Costs
The cost to attend The Preschool Program is determined upon the number of days your child attends and is due the beginning of each month. Our flat fee takes into consideration the number of holidays, snow days, and allowed absences. Nine payments are due beginning in September and ending in May. Tuition is paid in advance on the first school day of each month, and a late fee of $10.00 will be charged if tuition is not paid by the 5th of the month. It is very important to the success of our program that all tuition is paid on time, because this income is necessary for our program's success.
Please make checks payable to Woodland Park School District RE-2 (WPSD RE-2) and put Columbine Preschool as your memo.
4 Days/week = $200.00/month
4 Days/week with Reduced Rate = $20.00/month
5 Days/week= $450/month
5 Days/week with Reduced Rate= $250/month
Snack and Supply fees are included in these costs. Field Trips may require additional payment.
If you have any questions you may contact the school office at 686-2300. We look forward to seeing you and to an exciting, fun-filled school year!
Withdrawal of Your Child From Preschool
If you choose to withdraw your child from the Preschool program, we ask that you give two weeks notice. Due to the consideration of those children on our waiting list we ask that you let us know as soon as possible if your child will be exiting the program. If you do not give two weeks notice you will be responsible for paying two weeks worth of tuition.
Health and Safety Policies
The Preschool Program is licensed through the State of Colorado and requires that a child must have updated immunization forms on file before entering school. We recognize the right to exempt immunizations and children may be present without immunizations in this rare case. A physical exam signed by a doctor must be completed each year.
PARENTS will assume the responsibility of keeping a child at home if there is any doubt about the child's health. Signs of illness include: green nasal discharge, sneezing & coughing, sore throat, fever (100 degrees), vomiting, unidentified skin rash, loose bowel movements, and unusual fatigue or irritability. A child should be free of all symptoms for 24 hours before returning to school.
Whenever your child has been exposed to a communicable disease (chicken pox, strep, head lice) please report this to the teacher!
If it becomes necessary for a child to take any form of MEDICATION at school, these steps must be followed:
1. Written permission by parents giving the school district direct authorization to assist with medication.
2. A written order from your physician stating name of medication, dosage and times to be given.
3. Medication must be in the original labeled container; all medications will be kept in the nurse's office.
** All of the previous policies are critical to the well-being of all children and staff. Your cooperation is essential to the health of our children!
**If your child becomes ill at school we will contact you. In the event of an injury, accident, or emergency, you will be notified with written documentation. If medical intervention is necessary you will be called immediately.
Attendance Policies
Deciding to bring your child to preschool is a big step for many families. Providing a consistent routine where your child feels engaged and important will ease the transition at drop-off and pick-up. For the most effective preschool experience, we encourage you to support your child by allowing her to be consistently present and on time.
Being present every day will allow your child to develop a familiar routine to grow. Consistency provides security and allows your child to develop independence, secure attachments, familiar friends and more.
The beginning of the day is a critical component to your child’s preschool experience. Being on time will allow your child to develop a drop-off routine. We will welcome each child individually, introduce the goals for the day and practice social skills. This will diminish natural anxiety that may arise from the transition to preschool.
If your child is to be absent, please call the office at 686-2300 to let us know as soon as possible.
If your child is receiving funding from the Colorado Preschool Program, your child must have regular attendance to continue in the program. Funding may be lost without regular attendance. This will be defined more clearly in the signed contract.
Dropping off and Picking Up
For the protection of your child, we ask that parents and caregivers sign their child in and out of school each day. Children will only be released to parents/guardians or another adult with prior written authorization from the parents/guardians. Identification will be checked before releasing the child from school. Due to our licensing laws older siblings will not be permitted to pick up preschoolers.
If a change of transportation is necessary, you may write that information on the sign-in form so the staff is informed in advanced of the plan. In an emergency situation, verbal authorization may be given to the office by calling 686-2300. They will contact us with the new information.
If your child rides the school bus, please let the teacher know what bus number it is. A staff member will accompany the children to the designated bus supervisor.
If your child attends day care and will be dropped off or picked up by the day care please let the teacher know and provide the name of day care, and bus/van driver.
For the part time programs, if your child is not picked up by 10:20 am or 2:45 pm, your child will be taken to the office to wait for his/her ride. If your child is in Full Day, he will be taken to the office at 2:45. If nobody comes within 10 minutes, your child’s parents/guardians and then the emergency contacts will be called.
Curriculum and Practices
The Columbine Preschool Program believes that children learn best through a balanced approach of teacher directed activities and active and intentional play using their senses. We recognize the importance of positive relationships and connections for learning and actively work to nurture these with children and families.
The daily schedule in each room will provide ample opportunity for a balanced approach through developmentally appropriate activities. Developmental appropriate is defined by the National Association for the Education of Young children as “setting challenging but achievable goals for all children on their individual levels.” These levels are determined through a variety of data collection including conversation with parents, observation and other provided reports.
“Do not train a child to learn by force or harshness; but direct them to it by what amuses their minds, so that you may be better able to discover with accuracy the peculiar bent of the genius of each.”
-Plato
Teacher Directed Activities
Research continues to demonstrate the importance of a unified developmentally appropriate curriculum in early childhood (birth-age 8). Therefore, your child will have the opportunity to develop skills with adult support through a variety of curriculums connected to the elementary school.
Many teacher directed activities will be no longer than 10 minutes and will be followed by a period of exploration(small groups) and then a time for reflection.
Current curriculum includes:
· Everyday Counts: Calendar Math
o Uses the Calendar, Number Bear and other methods to develop a strong foundation of Number Sense
§ Number sense is a critical foundation of math skills.
· Handwriting Without Tears
o Big Lines, Little Lines, Big Curves, Little Curves
o Mat Man to develop body awareness
o Letters start at the top
o Title case for Names
· Daily 5- modified to Weekly 4- This is our Literacy Model
o Read to Self, Listen to Reading, Word Work and Work on Writing
· Bridge to Reading: Project Read
o Approach to Phonics Instruction
· Writing Alive
o Story Retells
o Vocabulary Development
§ High vocabulary skills are one indicator for later school success
Child Directed Activities
To provide each child with multiple activities and opportunities, our classroom is divided into centers. The dramatic play center, art center, block center, writing center, math center, science center, water/sand table, computer center, and library. Each center compliments one another in encouraging preschool skills.
The skills targeted throughout the classroom centers include but are not limited to: imaginary play, creative expression, pre-reading and writing skills, experimentation with number and problem solving skills.
Example #1:
Katie (3 yrs. old) and Cara (4 yrs. old) are painting at the easel in the art center. As they mix the red and blue paint to create pictures for their parents they are excited to learn that as they stroke the two colors together a new color is emerging! Their pictures are vivid and bright purple. Cara uses a crayon to write her name on her own art work! Katie "scribbles" a wiggly line and announces that "this says Katie!" The girls are proud of their work, and as they move to a new center they share their new knowledge with their friends of what happens when you mix red and blue together!
Example #2:
Our theme this week is Farm Animals! At the Math Center, Brian and Kenton are playing Barnyard Bingo. Brian has a blue card in front of him while Kenton has a red card. As the chips rollout of the barn they have to take turns finding a match for their card! While waiting his turn, Brian observes that he has two matches, and he only needs one more and then he'll have three!! These boys are enjoying playing together while learning about turn taking, counting, and matching!!
“Play allows children to use their creativity while developing their imagination, dexterity, and physical, cognitive, and emotional strength. Play is important to healthy brain development. It is through play that children at a very early age engage and interact in the world around them. Play allows children to create and explore a world they can master, conquering their fears while practicing adult roles, sometimes in conjunction with other children or adult caregivers. As they master their world, play helps children develop new competencies that lead to enhanced confidence and the resiliency they will need to face future challenges. Undirected play allows children to learn how to work in groups, to share, to negotiate, to resolve conflicts, and to learn self-advocacy skills. When play is allowed to be child driven, children practice decision-making skills, move at their own pace, discover their own areas of interest, and ultimately engage fully in the passions they wish to pursue. Play allows a child to create and experiment without the constraints of adult demands.” http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/119/1/182.full
Daily Schedule
Preschool children thrive when a consistent routine is provided. This helps them to gain an understanding of time and routine. Below is a sample of our daily routine that we try to follow each day with the children:
Arrival: the children say good-bye to mom or dad and put their belongings away.
Greeting: the children practice appropriate greetings with adults and peers and determine learning goal for the day.
Circle Time: a chance to discuss special activities going on that day. Our theme related story is read, calendar and math are taught, and other songs and finger plays are introduced.
Smalls Groups: The children practice literacy skills and specific learning goals are addressed
Outside Time: The last part of our day is spent outside where the children can enjoy the fresh air and challenge their large muscle skills!
Snack Time: The children wash their hands and prepare for snack. During snack we use this opportunity to encourage social interaction and discuss what everyone did during children's choice. Children's self-help skills are engaged as they serve and pour for themselves.
Reading Time: As a transition from snack, the children find a quiet place to read stories alone or with a friend. This time is also used to address science and social studies curriculum.
Learning Centers: This is a work and play time for the children to experience a variety of centers. Special theme related activities and class projects are done during this time along with cooking activities. Children plan what they'll do in small groups beforehand and review what they did afterwards, again in small groups.
Closing Circle: A tradition at the end of the day to review what we learned, say good-bye to friends and wait for parents to arrive
**You will be given a classroom schedule upon enrollment.
Parent Communication
“Productive collaborations between family and school, therefore, will demand that parents and teachers recognize the critical importance of each other's participation in the life of the child. This mutuality of knowledge, understanding, and empathy comes not only with a recognition of the child as the central purpose for the collaboration but also with a recognition of the need to maintain roles and relationships with children that are comprehensive, dynamic, and differentiated.”-Sara Lawrence Lightfoot
Teachers will be responsible for communicating with families through a monthly newsletter that will outline important themes, skills and events. These may occur via email or paper copies.
Communication Folders may be used weekly to send home additional information.
Parent-Teacher conferences will be held twice a year, once in October and once in March. At these times, the parent will have a 20-minute time period to discuss their child's growth and development with the teacher.
In addition to these conferences, the teacher will make parents aware of daily events that raise concern. If needed, a meeting will be scheduled at the convenience of both the parents and the teacher to discuss such concerns.
**If parents would like to set an additional meeting at any time during the year, please make arrangements with your child's teacher.
Positive Behavior Management
Behavior management in the Columbine Preschool Program is positive and redirective. Children are treated with dignity and respect. There is a strong emphasis on positive reinforcement of appropriate behavior ("catch the children being good"), and encouraging the children to use their problem solving abilities to resolve conflicts. Some guidelines for behavior management in our program are:
IGNORE inappropriate behavior that seems to occur solely to get attention or may be resolved between the children themselves.
REDIRECT a child to a similar, appropriate activity; tell him what he may do. If necessary, gently lead him away from the problem situation.
REINFORCE appropriate behavior when it occurs. Make comments about the specific behavior, such as "Good! You are using the blocks to make a long road" (Instead of throwing them).
REMOVAL or restraint strategies might be used when a child is in danger to himself or others, and then only by a staff member. The child will be provided with a safe place to regain control of himself or herself and talk through the situation with the teacher and other child if appropriate.
Our goal is to provide an environment where children feel safe and secure so that learning can be a continuing process!
Classroom Rules
We keep ourselves safe.
We keep our friends safe.
We keep our things safe.
Special Education Services
Woodland Park School District hires highly qualified Early Interventionists as team leaders in their preschool classrooms. Each Early Interventionist has a Master’s degree or certification in Early Childhood Special Education. Additional resources may include:
The Speech/Language Pathologist works with children on delays in speech and language as described in the child’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP).
The Occupational Therapist works with children on delays in fine motor skills as described in the child’s IEP.
The Physical Therapist works with children on delays in gross motor skills as described in the child’s IEP.
The Social Worker aids in emotional and social support as described in the child’s IEP.
The Psychologist supports the psychological state of the child as described in the child’s IEP.
Child Find General Information
Child Find refers to a process offered for families to formally evaluate their child’s developmental progress. This service is of no cost to families and is used to determine the need for early intervention. If you would like more information on the process, please contact the Child Find office at 686-2050.
Community Services for Children with Special Needs Ages Birth-3
Early Intervention Colorado
Teller Early Childhood Connections
For more information call:
(719) 687-5047
Odds and Ends
Personal Belongings & Space
Active indoor and outdoor play is a regular part of our day! Please dress your child in clothing and shoes that are suitable for running, climbing, and other vigorous activity. We will be outside for a part of each day, unless the weather is extremely cold or hot. Children will not be able to stay inside because we are required to maintain a teacher/child ratio. Our playground gets wet, snowy, muddy, and stays this way from October to May, so please send your child with clothing and footwear appropriate to the weather!!
Each day will include "messy" activities with paint, markers, glue, clay, water, etc., so clothing should be easy to launder. Each child will need a change of clothing to keep at school: shirt, pants, socks, underwear, and shoes. Please label your child's clothes and put them in a shoe box with your child's name clearly marked on each item.
Children are encouraged to help themselves with dressing and undressing. All clothing should be of a type that can be managed without too much difficulty for little, inexperienced fingers! This is especially helpful to manage toileting skills independently. Thank you for your help!
Please keep all toys at home. There will be special opportunities throughout the year for your child to share items from home.
Your child will have a shared classroom space.
"Show and Share"
Throughout the school year, we will have opportunities for your child to bring in a favorite toy, book or picture. These may be related to a theme or answer a question posed by the teachers. Your child may bring in one toy at this time.
Birthday Celebrations!
You are welcome to send in special birthday treats for all the children on your child's birthday or the closest school day. We also may provide a special birthday activity that each birthday child can enjoy!
Television and Video Watching
The Preschool program uses multi-media such as television, films, and videotapes as follows:
-Viewing is limited to developmentally appropriate programming that has been previewed by an adult prior to use.
-Staff discusses material viewed with children to develop critical viewing skills.
-Multi-media are used as a special event rather than as regular daily routines.
-During a video, if a child does not want to watch, an alternative activity will be provided.
Toileting
Toileting may happen within the classroom when there are 15 or less children present. In the event of 16 children present, a group leader or director will escort 8 children to the bathroom in the hallway to the left on the same floor.
Healthy Snacks for Young Children
We believe that healthy, nutritious snacks are vital to a child's growth and development! We like to do cooking activities with the children on a regular basis as it is beneficial for their self- help skills, improving their understanding of language concepts, small motor skills, as well as being a fun time for social interaction.
The children will be offered a healthy snack each day. Preschool will provide all the food and do the shopping.
*A monthly snack and supply fee is collected at the first of every month and is included in your designated tuition/fee cost.
Procedure for Emergencies
In the event of a fire, the children will be removed from the classroom in a calm and orderly manner. We will exit the classroom using the outside exit door. The classroom teacher will guide the children outside while the teacher assistant checks the classroom for children. Once outside, the teacher will do a role call and mark that all children are present.
In the event of a tornado or other drastic weather conditions, the class will follow specific directions from the school principal as to what to do to maintain safety.
In the horrific event that a child becomes lost, a complete search of the building and grounds will be made. The Woodland Park Police Department will be contacted if the child is not found after this search. At this point, the child's parents will be contacted immediately.
We also have a crisis prevention plan in place for any other unexpected emergencies.
Field Trips and Transportation
We may take field trips throughout the school year. In the event of a field trip, your signed permission will be given prior to your child attending. If permission is not given, your child will need to remain at home or other arrangements may be made at the school as needed.
Transportation will be provided by licensed professionals. Car seats will be used when needed and the parent will be responsible for providing these.
During field trips, appropriate staff ratios will be maintained. Adults are encouraged to attend field trips and support the preschool staff.
Supervision and Written Closure Procedure
Preschool children are closely supervised at all times by Woodland Park School District staff members. A qualified group leader is always present. Others who may be present in our classroom are parent volunteers, community volunteers, students from the upper grades, therapists affiliated with the school district, and occasional observers of our preschool program.
Only WPSD staff members are responsible for the safety and primary instruction of Preschool children; therefore at least one staff member is required to be present with any other volunteers.
At the end of each Preschool session and playground time, the following procedures will be followed by the teacher or assistant teacher:
1. The playground area will be checked to make sure that all of the children are inside the classroom.
2. The bathroom and classroom centers will be checked to assure that all children are present.
3. When all the children are ready for dismissal a head count will be taken to make sure all the children are present If any child is missing, the teacher or assistant teacher will check the playground, bathrooms, and classroom.
4. If the child is not found than the necessary steps under emergency procedures will be followed.
Reporting and Complaints
Reporting Suspected Child Abuse and Neglect
Any care giver or staff member in a child care facility who has reasonable cause to know or suspect that a child has been subjected to abuse or neglect, or has observed the child being subjected to circumstances or conditions that would reasonably result in abuse or neglect must immediately report or cause a report to be made.
A parent or caregiver should report suspected child abuse or neglect at the Preschool Program to the Preschool Director, the Columbine Elementary Principal or the school counselor.
You may also notify Teller County Department of Social Services at 687-3335 or the Teller County Sheriff's Office at 687-9652.
To File a Complaint About the Preschool Program
If a parent wishes to file a complaint about the Preschool, please see the Preschool Director or Columbine Elementary Principal. You may directly contact the state licensing office at:
Colorado Department of Human Services 1575 Sherman Street
Denver, CO80203-17l4
(303) 866-5958 or 1-800-799-5876
Where Play is More
Growing lifelong learners and meeting state standards through developmentally appropriate practice
Welcome to the Preschool Program at Columbine Elementary School!
At Columbine Elementary School...
1. We believe in the dignity of all people.
2. We believe in education for all students that contributes to their maturation as generative people.
3. We believe in a community.
Therefore, Columbine Preschool will…
· Honor your child’s Individuality while growing his Mind, Body and Heart
· Nurture a love of learning through:
· Building strong positive relationships
· Developmentally Appropriate Practice-Setting challenging but achievable goals for all children on their individual levels
· Providing a variety of sensory rich experiences
· Intentional PLAY!!
· Invite all families and community members to become involved to the greatest extent possible
About WPSD RE-2 Preschools
The Preschool program is Woodland Park School District's Early Intervention Program. There is a Preschool program at all three elementary schools. It is a developmentally appropriate preschool for children 3 to 5 years of age, including children with special needs and children who are eligible for the Colorado Preschool Program (CPP).
Highly qualified staff work with young children with challenging learning styles. Developmental screenings for children, aged birth through five are held to identify those who need further evaluation. Bimonthly team evaluations will be offered to identify children who need special services provided by the school district.
Please take a moment to read the following descriptions and prioritized categories for placing children into our program.
A. Special Needs: These children qualify for preschool program specialized services as determined by our district's Child Find team. A child must fall below the 7th percentile on a standardized evaluation tool in one area of development (social, motor, speech/language and/or cognitive areas). Preschool for these children is on a significantly reduced rate. Services provided are in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
B. Colorado Preschool Program (CPP): These children do not qualify for special education services; however, they are at risk for learning due to a variety of factors such as health, a mild developmental delay, crisis in the home, etc. In addition, a child must be eligible for kindergarten the following school year. Preschool for these children is on a significantly reduced rate.
C. Tuition: These children do not qualify for either Special Needs or the Colorado Preschool Program. These children are developing typically and pay tuition. Research has proven that there are benefits for all children to have blended classrooms where children with a variety of needs are integrated into the same setting.
Program Hours of Operation
The Preschool program is open Monday-Friday beginning at 7:20 and closing at 2:50. Our children have the choice of attending morning or afternoon preschool for four days a week (Monday through Thursday) OR a full day 7:20-3:00 program five days per week (Monday through Friday).
The sessions are scheduled as follows:
AM Sessions: M-TH 7:20-10:20
PM Sessions: M-TH 11:40-2:40
Full Day Session: M-F 7:20-2:50
We encourage children to attend each program in its entirety, but exceptions may be made through special request. There are specific requirements for attendance if you receive any tuition assistance.
The Preschool program follows the school district calendar. Please note that the four day Preschool ends one week earlier. Please check the calendar for important dates to remember throughout the school year!!
In Case of Bad Weather!
Local radio and television stations will be informed by 6:00AM about inclement weather schedule changes for Woodland Park School District. It is district policy to delay the start of school by two hours, cancel for the day, or release early to keep your child safe. In such cases, preschool will:
- If there is a snow day, then there is no school for anyone.
- If there is a delayed start, then AM Preschool will be cancelled and PM Preschool will take place as normal. Full Day will follow the same schedule as K-5.
- If there is an Early Release due to weather, AM will take place as normal and PM Preschool families will be notified. Full Day will follow the same schedule as K-5.
Registration/Admission Policy
To enroll your child in the Preschool Program the following steps must be taken:
1. Contact Columbine Elementary School and let them know you are interested in the Preschool program.
2. In order for your child to start preschool the following paperwork must be read, filled out and returned to the office or the Preschool Director. You may pick these forms up in the office or have them mailed to your home.
A. Enrollment Form
B. Immunization Record or Signed Exemption Form
C. Physical (current within 1 year)
D. Health Screening Questionnaire
F. Emergency Contact Form
G. Medicaid Form
H. Copy of Birth Certificate
I. Policies and Procedures Form
J. Release for Publication
K. Transportation Information
Please return all items to Columbine’s Main Office or Preschool Director. There will be a Spring and Summer Registration, but information will be taken all year.
Preschool Costs
The cost to attend The Preschool Program is determined upon the number of days your child attends and is due the beginning of each month. Our flat fee takes into consideration the number of holidays, snow days, and allowed absences. Nine payments are due beginning in September and ending in May. Tuition is paid in advance on the first school day of each month, and a late fee of $10.00 will be charged if tuition is not paid by the 5th of the month. It is very important to the success of our program that all tuition is paid on time, because this income is necessary for our program's success.
Please make checks payable to Woodland Park School District RE-2 (WPSD RE-2) and put Columbine Preschool as your memo.
4 Days/week = $200.00/month
4 Days/week with Reduced Rate = $20.00/month
5 Days/week= $450/month
5 Days/week with Reduced Rate= $250/month
Snack and Supply fees are included in these costs. Field Trips may require additional payment.
If you have any questions you may contact the school office at 686-2300. We look forward to seeing you and to an exciting, fun-filled school year!
Withdrawal of Your Child From Preschool
If you choose to withdraw your child from the Preschool program, we ask that you give two weeks notice. Due to the consideration of those children on our waiting list we ask that you let us know as soon as possible if your child will be exiting the program. If you do not give two weeks notice you will be responsible for paying two weeks worth of tuition.
Health and Safety Policies
The Preschool Program is licensed through the State of Colorado and requires that a child must have updated immunization forms on file before entering school. We recognize the right to exempt immunizations and children may be present without immunizations in this rare case. A physical exam signed by a doctor must be completed each year.
PARENTS will assume the responsibility of keeping a child at home if there is any doubt about the child's health. Signs of illness include: green nasal discharge, sneezing & coughing, sore throat, fever (100 degrees), vomiting, unidentified skin rash, loose bowel movements, and unusual fatigue or irritability. A child should be free of all symptoms for 24 hours before returning to school.
Whenever your child has been exposed to a communicable disease (chicken pox, strep, head lice) please report this to the teacher!
If it becomes necessary for a child to take any form of MEDICATION at school, these steps must be followed:
1. Written permission by parents giving the school district direct authorization to assist with medication.
2. A written order from your physician stating name of medication, dosage and times to be given.
3. Medication must be in the original labeled container; all medications will be kept in the nurse's office.
** All of the previous policies are critical to the well-being of all children and staff. Your cooperation is essential to the health of our children!
**If your child becomes ill at school we will contact you. In the event of an injury, accident, or emergency, you will be notified with written documentation. If medical intervention is necessary you will be called immediately.
Attendance Policies
Deciding to bring your child to preschool is a big step for many families. Providing a consistent routine where your child feels engaged and important will ease the transition at drop-off and pick-up. For the most effective preschool experience, we encourage you to support your child by allowing her to be consistently present and on time.
Being present every day will allow your child to develop a familiar routine to grow. Consistency provides security and allows your child to develop independence, secure attachments, familiar friends and more.
The beginning of the day is a critical component to your child’s preschool experience. Being on time will allow your child to develop a drop-off routine. We will welcome each child individually, introduce the goals for the day and practice social skills. This will diminish natural anxiety that may arise from the transition to preschool.
If your child is to be absent, please call the office at 686-2300 to let us know as soon as possible.
If your child is receiving funding from the Colorado Preschool Program, your child must have regular attendance to continue in the program. Funding may be lost without regular attendance. This will be defined more clearly in the signed contract.
Dropping off and Picking Up
For the protection of your child, we ask that parents and caregivers sign their child in and out of school each day. Children will only be released to parents/guardians or another adult with prior written authorization from the parents/guardians. Identification will be checked before releasing the child from school. Due to our licensing laws older siblings will not be permitted to pick up preschoolers.
If a change of transportation is necessary, you may write that information on the sign-in form so the staff is informed in advanced of the plan. In an emergency situation, verbal authorization may be given to the office by calling 686-2300. They will contact us with the new information.
If your child rides the school bus, please let the teacher know what bus number it is. A staff member will accompany the children to the designated bus supervisor.
If your child attends day care and will be dropped off or picked up by the day care please let the teacher know and provide the name of day care, and bus/van driver.
For the part time programs, if your child is not picked up by 10:20 am or 2:45 pm, your child will be taken to the office to wait for his/her ride. If your child is in Full Day, he will be taken to the office at 2:45. If nobody comes within 10 minutes, your child’s parents/guardians and then the emergency contacts will be called.
Curriculum and Practices
The Columbine Preschool Program believes that children learn best through a balanced approach of teacher directed activities and active and intentional play using their senses. We recognize the importance of positive relationships and connections for learning and actively work to nurture these with children and families.
The daily schedule in each room will provide ample opportunity for a balanced approach through developmentally appropriate activities. Developmental appropriate is defined by the National Association for the Education of Young children as “setting challenging but achievable goals for all children on their individual levels.” These levels are determined through a variety of data collection including conversation with parents, observation and other provided reports.
“Do not train a child to learn by force or harshness; but direct them to it by what amuses their minds, so that you may be better able to discover with accuracy the peculiar bent of the genius of each.”
-Plato
Teacher Directed Activities
Research continues to demonstrate the importance of a unified developmentally appropriate curriculum in early childhood (birth-age 8). Therefore, your child will have the opportunity to develop skills with adult support through a variety of curriculums connected to the elementary school.
Many teacher directed activities will be no longer than 10 minutes and will be followed by a period of exploration(small groups) and then a time for reflection.
Current curriculum includes:
· Everyday Counts: Calendar Math
o Uses the Calendar, Number Bear and other methods to develop a strong foundation of Number Sense
§ Number sense is a critical foundation of math skills.
· Handwriting Without Tears
o Big Lines, Little Lines, Big Curves, Little Curves
o Mat Man to develop body awareness
o Letters start at the top
o Title case for Names
· Daily 5- modified to Weekly 4- This is our Literacy Model
o Read to Self, Listen to Reading, Word Work and Work on Writing
· Bridge to Reading: Project Read
o Approach to Phonics Instruction
· Writing Alive
o Story Retells
o Vocabulary Development
§ High vocabulary skills are one indicator for later school success
Child Directed Activities
To provide each child with multiple activities and opportunities, our classroom is divided into centers. The dramatic play center, art center, block center, writing center, math center, science center, water/sand table, computer center, and library. Each center compliments one another in encouraging preschool skills.
The skills targeted throughout the classroom centers include but are not limited to: imaginary play, creative expression, pre-reading and writing skills, experimentation with number and problem solving skills.
Example #1:
Katie (3 yrs. old) and Cara (4 yrs. old) are painting at the easel in the art center. As they mix the red and blue paint to create pictures for their parents they are excited to learn that as they stroke the two colors together a new color is emerging! Their pictures are vivid and bright purple. Cara uses a crayon to write her name on her own art work! Katie "scribbles" a wiggly line and announces that "this says Katie!" The girls are proud of their work, and as they move to a new center they share their new knowledge with their friends of what happens when you mix red and blue together!
Example #2:
Our theme this week is Farm Animals! At the Math Center, Brian and Kenton are playing Barnyard Bingo. Brian has a blue card in front of him while Kenton has a red card. As the chips rollout of the barn they have to take turns finding a match for their card! While waiting his turn, Brian observes that he has two matches, and he only needs one more and then he'll have three!! These boys are enjoying playing together while learning about turn taking, counting, and matching!!
“Play allows children to use their creativity while developing their imagination, dexterity, and physical, cognitive, and emotional strength. Play is important to healthy brain development. It is through play that children at a very early age engage and interact in the world around them. Play allows children to create and explore a world they can master, conquering their fears while practicing adult roles, sometimes in conjunction with other children or adult caregivers. As they master their world, play helps children develop new competencies that lead to enhanced confidence and the resiliency they will need to face future challenges. Undirected play allows children to learn how to work in groups, to share, to negotiate, to resolve conflicts, and to learn self-advocacy skills. When play is allowed to be child driven, children practice decision-making skills, move at their own pace, discover their own areas of interest, and ultimately engage fully in the passions they wish to pursue. Play allows a child to create and experiment without the constraints of adult demands.” http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/119/1/182.full
Daily Schedule
Preschool children thrive when a consistent routine is provided. This helps them to gain an understanding of time and routine. Below is a sample of our daily routine that we try to follow each day with the children:
Arrival: the children say good-bye to mom or dad and put their belongings away.
Greeting: the children practice appropriate greetings with adults and peers and determine learning goal for the day.
Circle Time: a chance to discuss special activities going on that day. Our theme related story is read, calendar and math are taught, and other songs and finger plays are introduced.
Smalls Groups: The children practice literacy skills and specific learning goals are addressed
Outside Time: The last part of our day is spent outside where the children can enjoy the fresh air and challenge their large muscle skills!
Snack Time: The children wash their hands and prepare for snack. During snack we use this opportunity to encourage social interaction and discuss what everyone did during children's choice. Children's self-help skills are engaged as they serve and pour for themselves.
Reading Time: As a transition from snack, the children find a quiet place to read stories alone or with a friend. This time is also used to address science and social studies curriculum.
Learning Centers: This is a work and play time for the children to experience a variety of centers. Special theme related activities and class projects are done during this time along with cooking activities. Children plan what they'll do in small groups beforehand and review what they did afterwards, again in small groups.
Closing Circle: A tradition at the end of the day to review what we learned, say good-bye to friends and wait for parents to arrive
**You will be given a classroom schedule upon enrollment.
Parent Communication
“Productive collaborations between family and school, therefore, will demand that parents and teachers recognize the critical importance of each other's participation in the life of the child. This mutuality of knowledge, understanding, and empathy comes not only with a recognition of the child as the central purpose for the collaboration but also with a recognition of the need to maintain roles and relationships with children that are comprehensive, dynamic, and differentiated.”-Sara Lawrence Lightfoot
Teachers will be responsible for communicating with families through a monthly newsletter that will outline important themes, skills and events. These may occur via email or paper copies.
Communication Folders may be used weekly to send home additional information.
Parent-Teacher conferences will be held twice a year, once in October and once in March. At these times, the parent will have a 20-minute time period to discuss their child's growth and development with the teacher.
In addition to these conferences, the teacher will make parents aware of daily events that raise concern. If needed, a meeting will be scheduled at the convenience of both the parents and the teacher to discuss such concerns.
**If parents would like to set an additional meeting at any time during the year, please make arrangements with your child's teacher.
Positive Behavior Management
Behavior management in the Columbine Preschool Program is positive and redirective. Children are treated with dignity and respect. There is a strong emphasis on positive reinforcement of appropriate behavior ("catch the children being good"), and encouraging the children to use their problem solving abilities to resolve conflicts. Some guidelines for behavior management in our program are:
IGNORE inappropriate behavior that seems to occur solely to get attention or may be resolved between the children themselves.
REDIRECT a child to a similar, appropriate activity; tell him what he may do. If necessary, gently lead him away from the problem situation.
REINFORCE appropriate behavior when it occurs. Make comments about the specific behavior, such as "Good! You are using the blocks to make a long road" (Instead of throwing them).
REMOVAL or restraint strategies might be used when a child is in danger to himself or others, and then only by a staff member. The child will be provided with a safe place to regain control of himself or herself and talk through the situation with the teacher and other child if appropriate.
Our goal is to provide an environment where children feel safe and secure so that learning can be a continuing process!
Classroom Rules
We keep ourselves safe.
We keep our friends safe.
We keep our things safe.
Special Education Services
Woodland Park School District hires highly qualified Early Interventionists as team leaders in their preschool classrooms. Each Early Interventionist has a Master’s degree or certification in Early Childhood Special Education. Additional resources may include:
The Speech/Language Pathologist works with children on delays in speech and language as described in the child’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP).
The Occupational Therapist works with children on delays in fine motor skills as described in the child’s IEP.
The Physical Therapist works with children on delays in gross motor skills as described in the child’s IEP.
The Social Worker aids in emotional and social support as described in the child’s IEP.
The Psychologist supports the psychological state of the child as described in the child’s IEP.
Child Find General Information
Child Find refers to a process offered for families to formally evaluate their child’s developmental progress. This service is of no cost to families and is used to determine the need for early intervention. If you would like more information on the process, please contact the Child Find office at 686-2050.
Community Services for Children with Special Needs Ages Birth-3
Early Intervention Colorado
Teller Early Childhood Connections
For more information call:
(719) 687-5047
Odds and Ends
Personal Belongings & Space
Active indoor and outdoor play is a regular part of our day! Please dress your child in clothing and shoes that are suitable for running, climbing, and other vigorous activity. We will be outside for a part of each day, unless the weather is extremely cold or hot. Children will not be able to stay inside because we are required to maintain a teacher/child ratio. Our playground gets wet, snowy, muddy, and stays this way from October to May, so please send your child with clothing and footwear appropriate to the weather!!
Each day will include "messy" activities with paint, markers, glue, clay, water, etc., so clothing should be easy to launder. Each child will need a change of clothing to keep at school: shirt, pants, socks, underwear, and shoes. Please label your child's clothes and put them in a shoe box with your child's name clearly marked on each item.
Children are encouraged to help themselves with dressing and undressing. All clothing should be of a type that can be managed without too much difficulty for little, inexperienced fingers! This is especially helpful to manage toileting skills independently. Thank you for your help!
Please keep all toys at home. There will be special opportunities throughout the year for your child to share items from home.
Your child will have a shared classroom space.
"Show and Share"
Throughout the school year, we will have opportunities for your child to bring in a favorite toy, book or picture. These may be related to a theme or answer a question posed by the teachers. Your child may bring in one toy at this time.
Birthday Celebrations!
You are welcome to send in special birthday treats for all the children on your child's birthday or the closest school day. We also may provide a special birthday activity that each birthday child can enjoy!
Television and Video Watching
The Preschool program uses multi-media such as television, films, and videotapes as follows:
-Viewing is limited to developmentally appropriate programming that has been previewed by an adult prior to use.
-Staff discusses material viewed with children to develop critical viewing skills.
-Multi-media are used as a special event rather than as regular daily routines.
-During a video, if a child does not want to watch, an alternative activity will be provided.
Toileting
Toileting may happen within the classroom when there are 15 or less children present. In the event of 16 children present, a group leader or director will escort 8 children to the bathroom in the hallway to the left on the same floor.
Healthy Snacks for Young Children
We believe that healthy, nutritious snacks are vital to a child's growth and development! We like to do cooking activities with the children on a regular basis as it is beneficial for their self- help skills, improving their understanding of language concepts, small motor skills, as well as being a fun time for social interaction.
The children will be offered a healthy snack each day. Preschool will provide all the food and do the shopping.
*A monthly snack and supply fee is collected at the first of every month and is included in your designated tuition/fee cost.
Procedure for Emergencies
In the event of a fire, the children will be removed from the classroom in a calm and orderly manner. We will exit the classroom using the outside exit door. The classroom teacher will guide the children outside while the teacher assistant checks the classroom for children. Once outside, the teacher will do a role call and mark that all children are present.
In the event of a tornado or other drastic weather conditions, the class will follow specific directions from the school principal as to what to do to maintain safety.
In the horrific event that a child becomes lost, a complete search of the building and grounds will be made. The Woodland Park Police Department will be contacted if the child is not found after this search. At this point, the child's parents will be contacted immediately.
We also have a crisis prevention plan in place for any other unexpected emergencies.
Field Trips and Transportation
We may take field trips throughout the school year. In the event of a field trip, your signed permission will be given prior to your child attending. If permission is not given, your child will need to remain at home or other arrangements may be made at the school as needed.
Transportation will be provided by licensed professionals. Car seats will be used when needed and the parent will be responsible for providing these.
During field trips, appropriate staff ratios will be maintained. Adults are encouraged to attend field trips and support the preschool staff.
Supervision and Written Closure Procedure
Preschool children are closely supervised at all times by Woodland Park School District staff members. A qualified group leader is always present. Others who may be present in our classroom are parent volunteers, community volunteers, students from the upper grades, therapists affiliated with the school district, and occasional observers of our preschool program.
Only WPSD staff members are responsible for the safety and primary instruction of Preschool children; therefore at least one staff member is required to be present with any other volunteers.
At the end of each Preschool session and playground time, the following procedures will be followed by the teacher or assistant teacher:
1. The playground area will be checked to make sure that all of the children are inside the classroom.
2. The bathroom and classroom centers will be checked to assure that all children are present.
3. When all the children are ready for dismissal a head count will be taken to make sure all the children are present If any child is missing, the teacher or assistant teacher will check the playground, bathrooms, and classroom.
4. If the child is not found than the necessary steps under emergency procedures will be followed.
Reporting and Complaints
Reporting Suspected Child Abuse and Neglect
Any care giver or staff member in a child care facility who has reasonable cause to know or suspect that a child has been subjected to abuse or neglect, or has observed the child being subjected to circumstances or conditions that would reasonably result in abuse or neglect must immediately report or cause a report to be made.
A parent or caregiver should report suspected child abuse or neglect at the Preschool Program to the Preschool Director, the Columbine Elementary Principal or the school counselor.
You may also notify Teller County Department of Social Services at 687-3335 or the Teller County Sheriff's Office at 687-9652.
To File a Complaint About the Preschool Program
If a parent wishes to file a complaint about the Preschool, please see the Preschool Director or Columbine Elementary Principal. You may directly contact the state licensing office at:
Colorado Department of Human Services 1575 Sherman Street
Denver, CO80203-17l4
(303) 866-5958 or 1-800-799-5876