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JrK Here I Come!

Helpful Hints

    • A place where your child can continue growing and learning in a safe and supportive environment.

    • A place where families and teachers work together to help each child succeed.

    • A place where lessons are designed to meet children where they are in their development.

    • A place where children participate in reading, writing, math, and hands-on activities in both large and small groups.

    • A place that encourages curiosity and a love of discovery.

    • A place where each child is recognized as a unique individual.

    • A place that builds confidence and helps children feel good about themselves.

    • While in the Jr. K program, children will participate in developmentally appropriate activities within a positive learning environment that encourages and facilitates independence, exploration, and learning through trial and error. 

    • Our day is full of activities that encourage children to learn at their own pace. Using this model, each child is able to grow and develop within our classroom environment.

    • Through play the children learn concepts such as: math, literacy, social skills, self regulation, problem solving, fine motor, gross motor, STEM (science, technology, engineering, math), and many others! ​

    • All of our learning is hands-on so children can reach their fullest potential.     

    • Opportunities to participate in music, library, physical education, and friendship group supported by the school counselor.

    • S.M.A.R.T. (Stimulating Maturity through Accelerated Readiness Training) room activities that support efficient brain learning by engaging both sides of the body.

    • Conferences are scheduled twice each year—once in the fall and once in late winter.

    • Conferences focus on your child’s academic progress, school adjustment, social development, attitudes, and behavior.

    • Families are encouraged to reach out at any time with questions or concerns; meetings can be scheduled outside of conference times as needed.

  • Home–School Connections

    Parent-Teacher Relationship

    • A strong parent-teacher partnership is key to student success. We will communicate regularly and encourage families to reach out with questions or concerns. You may send a note in your child’s folder, message us on SeeSaw, call the school at (605) 677-7000, or email us.

    Folders

    • Folders will come home daily with important papers, completed work, and reminders

    • Items may include daily work, book orders, optional homework, classroom newsletters, lunch menus, and upcoming school activities

    • Please remove papers and return the folder to school each day

    • Families may also send notes, lunch money, book orders, or updates about family events in the folder

    SeeSaw

    • We use SeeSaw, a digital portfolio, to keep families connected. Your child will add projects to their journal, which you can view, like, and comment on. Teachers will also send announcements and reminders through SeeSaw. Families will receive an invitation on the first day of school.

    School Attendance

    • Regular and prompt attendance is crucial to student success

    • Many learning activities are hands-on, group-based, and interactive

    • Consistent attendance ensures ongoing access to learning opportunities

    Before School

    • Help your child dress appropriately for the weather; boots are needed when snow is on the ground

    • School begins at 8:20 a.m.

    • Breakfast is served from 7:50–8:20 a.m.

    • Students should come directly to the classroom to put away belongings and begin the day

    • To limit exposure between families, please say good-byes at the outside doors and allow your child to walk independently to the classroom

    • Students eating breakfast will be guided to the gym

    • If your child will be absent or late, please call the school office at (605) 677-7000 and notify Christina Beach or Tracy Larson

    After School

    • Bus riders are dismissed through the north doors

    • Pick-up students are dismissed through the south doors by the pick-up lanes at 2:50 p.m.

    • Junior Kindergarten dismisses at 2:50 p.m. (1:20 p.m. on early dismissal days)

    • Teachers will escort students to the south doors by the preschool playground for adult pick-up

    • Students will remain with the teacher until their designated adult arrives

    • Prompt pick-up is required to ensure smooth dismissal and transportation for all students

    • Students not picked up on time will be escorted to the main office

    Changes in Transportation

    • If your child’s transportation changes, please send a note, message through SeeSaw, or call the school office. Written communication is preferred. For same-day changes, calling the office is the fastest and most reliable option.

    Snack

    • We are a nut-free school. No food items containing peanuts or tree nuts are allowed.

    • To support healthy bodies and focused minds, students will receive a daily healthy snack at school.

    • To simplify snack planning for families, the school partners with Feeding Vermillion to provide snacks for all students.

    • Families are asked to contribute $70 per year for snacks. Payment options include:

      • One payment of $70 at the start of the year, or

      • Two payments of $35 (one at the start of the year and one in January)

    Outdoor Recess

    • Students will go outside for recess three times a day (morning, noon, and afternoon) unless it is raining or below zero.

    The End

    • We are excited to spend this year with your child and look forward to a year full of learning and fun.

    • Talk about school positively to build excitement and confidence.

    • Answer questions using this handbook or contact the school for support.

    • Share concerns with teachers or administrators—not with your child.

    • Encourage independence with dressing, shoes, and personal care.

    • Practice fine motor skills such as buttoning, zipping, and tying shoes.

    • Choose comfortable, washable clothing and secure footwear.

    • Establish routines early to help your child feel settled.

    • Help your child practice school routines like lining up and walking to class independently.

Questions?

E-mail Christina Beach or call 605-677-7000.

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