"The success of each child is a team effort. Every teacher, in every space, makes a difference in their story.”
In Ms. Tarr’s Makerspace, our youngest learners dive into hands-on exploration and creativity! Children practice using age-appropriate tools safely while building confidence and independence. Through open-ended projects, they learn to collaborate, share ideas, solve problems, and bring their imaginations to life. This class sparks curiosity, encourages teamwork, and makes learning fun as students create, tinker, and discover together!
Email bvtarr@ilstu.edu
In Ms. Zimmer’s Art Class, creativity takes center stage! Children explore a variety of materials and techniques as they express themselves through art. Each project helps little artists develop fine motor skills, strengthen creative thinking, and build confidence in their abilities. With creations galore and plenty of fun along the way, this class is all about making, imagining, and celebrating each child’s unique artistic voice.
Email: ezimme4@ilstu.edu
We’re so lucky to enjoy P.E. every day with Mr. Gates! In this active and energetic class, children have fun playing games while developing important gross motor skills like running, jumping, and balancing. Along the way, they also learn about rules, teamwork, and safety. Daily P.E. gives our Pre-K students the perfect outlet for their energy while building healthy habits, coordination, and confidence—all through play!
Email: jbgates@ilstu.edu
Once a week, our Pre-K students visit the library for a special time of stories and discovery! Led by Ms. Zehr with help from Ms. Maulding, children enjoy story time, learn how to check out books, and begin exploring the parts of a book—like the author, illustrator, and publisher. They also practice how to care for books, building responsibility and a love for reading. Library time is all about sparking curiosity, growing early literacy skills, and nurturing a lifelong joy of books!
Zehr Email: hmzehr1@ilstu.edu
Maulding Email: cncarls@ilstu.edu
Once a week, our Pre-K musicians gather with Ms. Towler to explore the wonderful world of sound! In this class, children learn to listen closely and identify differences in musical styles and the unique sounds of instruments. They pair movement with music, building coordination and self-expression, while experiencing rhythms, melodies, and traditions from a variety of cultures. With singing, dancing, and listening at the heart of each lesson, Pre-K Music is a joyful journey that sparks curiosity and celebrates the power of music around the world.
Email: ktowler@ilstu.edu