The NECCS Parent Guidebook provides parents an overview of our Kindergarten Preparatory Program here at NECCS. All parents are asked to review the handbook upon enrollment. Click the link above to access the guidebook for detailed information about the program, daily schedule and more!
Research shows that self-regulation is the biggest predictor of success in school and life. Tools of the Mind integrates neuroscience and developmental theory to enable teachers to build these foundational skills, and so much more.
Children need self-regulation to focus attention, persist at challenging tasks, learn how to learn, manage emotions, take turns with peers and engage in playful learning that propels their development. Tools of the Mind builds these skills and more.
Click the link to view a short video about the Tools of the Mind program
The Teaching Strategies GOLD assessment is an authentic part of instruction, not a disruption. Embedded in the teacher's everyday interactions with children in the classroom, formative assessment is an effortless, organic part of the teaching day. Teachers capture, organize, and store notes, photos, videos, and digital samples of children’s work in the moment to make authentic and objective observations of students' progress.
The assessment model used in GOLD follows widely held expectations for children from birth through third grade and enables a whole-child approach to assessment. Color-coded progressions guide teachers toward selecting and adapting activities that support each child’s development and learning, including those with disabilities. Meaningful reports inform classroom practices and individualized instruction.
Click the link or the image to view or download a copy of the guide.
Our core belief at NECCS is that EVERY CHILD CAN LEARN. Our Kindergarten Preparatory Program is designed to build the skills of your scholar and support positive learning outcomes. While scholars at this age learn and develop at different rates throughout the year, our goal is to have all scholars meet specific targets by the end of the year.
The targets for scholars are based on a set of standards established by the Teaching Strategies GOLD Assessment Standards. We check-in on students at the beginning, middle, and end of the year to track their progress and tailor learning to their individual, specific needs.
Thank you for entrusting us with the privilege of being part of your child's early learning journey. We recognize that a strong partnership between home and school is the foundation for a successful preschool experience, and we are grateful for the confidence you place in us each day.
Together, we can create a nurturing, engaging, and joyful environment where every child feels safe, valued, and inspired to learn. We encourage open, honest, and ongoing communication throughout the school year, and we welcome your questions, ideas, and feedback as we work together to support your child's growth.
We look forward to celebrating each milestone with your family and building lasting relationships that help every child thrive. Thank you for being an important part of our school community, we are excited for a wonderful year together!
Sincerely,
Steve Sandor
Director of Curriculum & Instruction
ssandor@newarkeducators.org