A BIG BEGINNING FOR LITTLE ONES AT ST. MARK’S

A new year of discovery began on Monday, August 21, as St. Mark’s Preschool welcomed 32 students. Marco’s 4-year olds embarked on a new chapter of their young lives…the first week of Preschool…those early moments on the first day proved to be a bit daunting for some little ones (and some of the parents, too). The experienced staff, including five, full-time teachers, handled a few meltdowns and tears. Play-Doh, gentle guidance, and distraction helped the tears and fears quickly disappear. To aid in the parents’ transition, the office staff was positioned under a canopy offering hospitality with refreshments and reassurance as the parents exited the school and headed to the parking lot. “Within 10 minutes of the parents leaving, everyone was fine,” explained St. Mark’s Preschool Director, Peggy Totten. “During the first two weeks, we have early dismissal at 12:30 to help with the transition. After that, it’s a full day from 8:30 AM-2:30 PM (or 4:30 for wrap around care). The children quickly get into the school routine.”

By the second day of school, all anxieties had passed completely, and the students were eager to pick up where the previous day had left off. Daily, the teachers make the books and learning come alive using acting, puppetry, and action songs.

“Our goal is to have everyone prepared for Tommie Barfield’s kindergarten. St. Mark’s Preschool is a literacy rich environment. We read a minimum of five books a day. Children learn math through games and exploration. Our program includes STEAM classes, Kindermusik @ School, Spanish, Art, Godly Play, Physical Education, and Gardening throughout the day,” added Totten. “Most importantly, our children learn through play!” For more information call 239-394-7242 ext. 95 or email pstotten@comcast.net.