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Kindergarten is an important part of the K-12 educational program. Virginia Beach City Public Schools offers half-day kindergarten classes for 5-year-olds in most elementary schools. Students who need additional language arts and mathematics support may be selected to participate in the Extended Day Kindergarten (EDK) program. Children are assigned by neighborhood to attend either morning or afternoon classes.
The school division’s kindergarten program is a developmental program. All instructional activities are designed to meet the needs of children appropriate to their individual stages of development. The curriculum is designed for children to actively construct an understanding of their world through continuous experiences within a positive classroom environment. The school division’s kindergarten program integrates the teaching of
language arts, mathematics, science, health, social studies skills, and concepts through a language-rich curriculum. Kindergarteners experience a literature-based curriculum that incorporates a variety of multi-sensory approaches to learning in the areas of reading, writing, and word study.
The mathematics program focuses on the development of mathematical concepts and skills through the use of manipulatives in a variety of real world activities. Kindergarten students are provided daily with opportunities to develop their large and small muscles. Experiences in art and music also are provided.
The assessment of children’s needs through daily observations and informal evaluation is ongoing and serves as the basis for the instruction in kindergarten. Gifted resource teachers conduct whole class lessons on a regular basis in kindergarten classrooms. During gifted lessons, the classroom teacher works collaboratively with the gifted resource teacher to recognize exceptional ability, performance, and potential. This information helps the classroom teacher plan differentiated lessons.
Report cards are issued four times a year, recording each child’s progress. Parental Involvement in the learning process is highly valued. Parents, students, and teachers working together as a team help create a meaningful kindergarten experience for children.
Should you have any additional questions about the kindergarten program, please contact the Department of Curriculum and Instruction at 757.263.1070.
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