Mission Statement:

The Sterling Public Schools Pre-K Program will collaborate, cooperate, and communicate with parents and community resources to create a safe and caring environment in which all students learn.

Standards and Philosophy:

The SPS Pre-K Program develops academic and social skills in line with the Illinois Learning Standards. We believe that play is part of learning. We also believe that play should be purposeful. The teacher's role is to make sure the environment is set up to promote learning and lessons are embedded in constructive play. Play is essential in the developmentally appropriate setting that promotes best practices.

Staff Qualifications:

• All teachers are State Certified with a 4-year degree in Early Childhood Education.
• All assistants are certified.
• Staff meets and exceeds requirements of DCFS Day Care Licensing Standards.

Cost:

There is no cost to families. The program is grant funded.

Eligibility:

Children who are not Kindergarten eligible and are 3-5 years of age.

Program Responsibilities:

• To keep parents informed of their child's progress.
• To involve parents in decisions made about their children.
• To provide opportunities for parents to participate in classroom activities.
• To provide parenting education opportunities.

Parent's Rights and Responsibilities:

A parent is the frist and most important teacher. Parents' have the right and responsibility to be involved in their child's health and educaiton. Parent's can support their child's educaiton by:

• Attending Parent/teacher conferences
• Volunteering in the classroom
• Attending parent meetings
• Reading to your child daily
• Making sure your child is on time for school and had good attendance.