We are enthusiastic about our program expansion with the offering of half-day kindergarten. Our inaugural year of our Kindergarten program was 2010. As our Preschool Ministry has grown since its inception in 1989, so has our reputation for quality in the education field.  We offer a challenging curriculum which exceeds the minimum standards for early childhood education. This framework for learning, undergirded by our nurturing Christian environment, will provide the best atmosphere for children to thrive and reach their potential.

Curriculum
 
Our integrated curriculum encompasses the following broad areas of learning and uses, as a baseline, the Virginia Dept. of Education’s Standards of Learning for Kindergarten.

Language Arts
A comprehensive phonics based reading and language arts program focusing on the development of oral language skills, phonological awareness, vocabulary, comprehension, and an appreciation for literature.

Math
Basic computing skills in addition and subtraction are taught with a focus on problem solving. Measurement, time, currency, simple geometry, and probability are also introduced.

Science
Kindergarteners investigate and explore our natural world encompassing life cycles of plants and animals, natural life processes, passage of time, earth cycles, and simple properties of matter.

Social Studies/History
Kindergarteners begin to develop an awareness and appreciation of other cultures and learn that history takes a look at events and people of other times. Maps and the globe are introduced as their sense of community broadens.

Resources:

Music
kindergarteners receive instruction from the Music Teacher twice a week learning songs and exploring simple musical concepts and instruments. Children participate in musical programs throughout the year.
 
Art
In addition to daily art and craft projects reinforcing classroom learning, Guest Artists visit the classroom giving the children the opportunity to explore, create and learn about a variety of art mediums.
Computer
Basic skills are introduced and the internet is used to supplement and enhance learning.

Library
Weekly visits to the library reinforce the love of reading with special story times.

Parents are welcome to share their special talents in the classroom as we seek to provide a rich learning environment. Field trips and special guests are also scheduled.
 
Each day is a fun day filled with meaningful learning experiences. There are also numerous opportunities throughout our school year for kindergarteners to take a lead role, such as participating in our monthly Children’s Worship. In addition to our structured learning activities, recess, snack break, story time including bible stories, prayer, and dramatic play all make a day at SBP special.

Assessments

The Phonological Awareness Literacy Screening (PALS) Assessment tool developed by the University of Virginia is administered in the fall and spring.
 
The academic year is divided into semesters with Progress Reports going home mid-year in January, and in May. Interim Reports go home at the conclusion of our First and Third Quarters. Formal parent teacher conferences are scheduled; however, we are always available for consultation and eager to partner with our parents in their child’s education.