The ABC's of Transitional Kindergarten
Aftercare - If your child attends our aftercare program, he/she will be escorted to that room after school. The rest of our students will meet up with parents on the sidewalk or in the car line.
Allergies - Please make sure we are aware of any allergies your child may have.
Birthdays - Birthdays are a big deal for our students! In TK, we make your child's special day extra memorable. Your child will be on the snack calendar near their full or half birthday (we celebrate half birthdays for our summer birthday students). You may choose to follow the normal snack guidelines or choose something from the special snack list.
Clothing - We encourage you to dress your child in comfortable clothing suitable for both the weather and preschool activities. Remember, we might get a little messy while having fun! Please also pack a full change of clothing in a ziplock bag, which we will store in your child's locker, to help handle any accidents or messy play. Shoes and Boots: Choose shoes and boots that your child can easily put on, take off, and tie or fasten independently. This will help them feel confident and self-sufficient throughout the day!
Discipline - We dedicate significant time to reviewing rules and role-playing social situations. Should any disciplinary issues arise that require attention at home, I will reach out to parents directly.
Email - I review my emails daily; however, I may not always have the chance to respond promptly. If your message requires immediate attention, you may contact the office directly.
Folders - Your child will bring home a home folder every night. Please check through it and send it back every morning.
Gym - Students will participate in Physical Education three times a week. Your child should wear tennis shoes and gym attire on these days.
Homework - In TK, we don’t have daily homework. Instead, we encourage you to read with your child every day. Throughout the year, your child may also bring home a few school projects to complete with your family. These projects help reinforce what we're learning in class while creating fun memories together!
Independence - Independence is a wonderful goal for TK students, as it significantly boosts their self-esteem and self-confidence. TK students are capable of accomplishing many tasks on their own, and we encourage them to embrace this independence as much as possible. At home, please support the development of these essential self-help skills: zipping, tying, and dressing. Your encouragement will help them thrive and feel proud of their abilities!
Jesus - Every week, Mrs. Sgroi visits our class to teach us about Jesus and His love for us. We will also learn some simple prayers and read Bible stories!
Keep Up To Date - It is important to keep up to date with important classroom information. Please regularly check our classroom website, your child's green folder, and the classroom and school newsletters as they come home. These resources provide updates and insights into your child's learning experience.
Lunch - Students may bring a lunch from home or purchase a school lunch. If bringing from home, please have your child practice opening and closing lunch bags/boxes and inside containers before the start of school. It also helps to pre-snip packaged foods, so your child can easily open wrappers. Our TK class will be lunching in the cafeteria.
Mission Statement - The mission of St. Augustin Catholic School is to provide meaningful, educational experiences for our students in an environment integrated by Gospel values, which nurtures faith, community, prayer, and service.
Newsletters - A weekly update will be sent home via email at the end of each week.
Outside Play - We love to have fun outside every day! Please make sure your student is dressed for outdoor adventures. In winter, they'll need hats, warm gloves, and sturdy boots to keep them warm and ready to play!
Parent Involvement - We love parent involvement! Your support for our school activities makes your child feel important and sends the message that you value school. Requests for help will be published in our weekly newsletters. We also invite you to become one of our homeroom parents, class readers, and party planners!
Quiet Time - In our setting, we don't have a specific rest period. Instead, we take a brief moment called "quiet time" to unwind and recharge our minds. During this time, we engage in calming activities, which help us prepare for the rest of the day.
Restrooms – Students may use the restrooms as needed. They are located in the classroom and down the hallway. We do not assist in the bathroom, so please make sure your child is independent in the restroom before the start of school.
Snacks - Our student of the day will bring a healthy snack for the class to enjoy in the afternoon. Please choose a fruit/vegetable AND a grain/protein. Snack guidelines can be found on the TK web page.
Student of the Day/Show and Tell - Each day, we will recognize a “Student of the Day.” This student will take on all classroom responsibilities, provide our class snack, and lead our calendar activities. On their special day, your child can bring a show-and-tell item. Please refer to the monthly calendar to find out when your child is scheduled and for suggestions on items to bring, which usually align with our monthly theme.
Toys - Toys should not be brought to school.
Units of Study - We encourage you to check out our newsletters to discover the exciting topics and concepts we are exploring in class. If you have any insights, experiences, or materials that could enrich a particular unit of study, we would be delighted to hear from you!
Volunteers - Getting involved in volunteer activities not only allows you to contribute to our school community but also serves as an excellent way to meet new people and forge meaningful connections. We encourage you to consider lending your support.
Water bottle - Feel free to send a water bottle for your child to use (please label with your child’s name). We do have access to a water fountain in the hallway and paper cups in our classroom if you choose not to send a water bottle.
eXcitement! - TK is a thrilling adventure! Every child is in for an amazing year filled with joy and discovery! We will have a blast exploring and learning together. I can't wait to witness the incredible growth and changes our students will experience this year!
You! - Please remember that you are your child's first and most important teacher. No one can influence their life as you can! Help your child feel successful this year by discussing their school day. Ask questions like:
“What did you learn today?”
“What did you work hardest on?”
“What was the best part of your day?”
“What are you getting better at?”
“What kind thing did someone do for you (or you for someone else) today?”
“How did you help a friend today?”
These questions encourage reflection and help them remember new information. Don’t let them say “nothing.” Inquire about centers, story time, or outdoor play. Your enthusiasm for learning will positively impact how they feel about school and teachers. It's contagious!
Zzzzzzz - After a fun day at school, your child will be TIRED and will need plenty of rest every night!