Happy New Year!

It is with great pleasure and excitement that I welcome Ms. Maria Gatz to our Good Shepherd Preschool Academy faculty. As our preschool enrollment continues to grow, it has become necessary to split our current PreK 4 class into two smaller sections. By having two classes, our teachers can better individualize their instruction to meet the needs of all our students.


With over 20 years experience, Ms. Maria has her certification in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education with a focus on behavioral and sensory issues for preschool age children.  Additionally, Ms. Maria has experience working in "transitional kindergarten" classrooms which is where we would like our PreK 4 program to grow. Ms. Maria and Ms. Howard will work together to plan and execute lessons in accordance with our newly adopted Highscope preschool curriculum. This accredited preschool program ignites children’s interest in learning by creating an environment that encourages them to explore learning materials and interact with adults and peers. Highscope focuses on supporting early learners as they make decisions, build academic skills, develop socially and emotionally, and become part of a classroom community. Along with this program, all preschool staff were trained on the Brigance Skills Assessment prior to the break. Within the first three weeks back, Ms. Drea will screen all preschool students so that we are starting this semester with strong student data.


Ms. Drea and myself, along with Ms. Howard, have divided our PreK 4's into two classrooms (both will remain in the same PreK 4 building). All PreK 4 students will have the same outdoor freeplay time and will enjoy the same snack/lunch times so that friends still have a chance to play together.


Ms. Drea and I are very excited about the growth and development of our GSS Preschool Academy. Personally, I would like to thank all of our parents for your patience and support as we continue to grow and adapt our program to meet the needs of our students.


Sincerely,
Kelly Rowe