Watertown, SD– Shannon Knopf, principal of McKinley Early Childhood Center, provided an update on the center’s programs and initiatives during a recent Watertown School Board meeting. The center, which serves preschool and kindergarten students, has introduced several new initiatives this year aimed at enhancing early childhood education.
Knopf highlighted the expansion of the junior kindergarten program, which has grown to four sections, creating more opportunities for young learners. All kindergarten students are now housed at McKinley, marking a significant change in the district’s educational structure.
In addition to core academic subjects, McKinley students participate in special subjects such as art, music, physical education, health, and library time. These activities are designed to encourage a love of learning and reading. Knopf also stressed the importance of teaching young children essential social skills and school expectations, including bathroom use, eating in the lunchroom, walking in hallways, and playing safely on the playground.
The center offers developmental screenings for families who wish to assess their child’s growth. The next screening is set for January, with appointments available on McKinley’s website.
To ensure students’ well-being, McKinley provides daily breakfast and lunch for all children. Preschool students also share meals together, fostering a sense of community. Recess is held every day, even in colder weather, giving children the chance to engage in outdoor play.
For students needing extra support, McKinley features a sensory room, which provides a quiet space for breaks or therapy. The center offers various special education services, including a birth-to-three program, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech and language services for qualifying students.
In response to feedback from working parents, McKinley has introduced new transportation options this year. Buses now transport children to and from daycare, a service that has been widely appreciated by families.
Looking ahead, Knopf announced that the kindergarten roundup and preschool screening for the next school year will take place on March 17th and 18th, just before spring break.
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