By: Marisa Riesinger, Heart River, Jefferson & Lincoln Elementary Library Media Specialist
Backpacks ready…pencils sharpened…students’ names on lockers and desks. Back to school days are finally here - and they bring even more anticipation for incoming Kindergartners! The kindergarten class of 2035 has a new world of friendships, experiences, and learning awaiting them. At Jefferson Elementary, kindergarten students will have even more exciting opportunities because of new hands-on experiences in their daily learning.
The Jefferson Kindergarten team was awarded funds for academic success through the 2021-2022 DPS Foundation Annual Teacher Grant Program. With the grant, the teachers purchased math and reading/language arts materials that will allow students to work individually and successfully at their learning level. The materials are organized into activity tubs which the teacher can use for instruction, reinforcement, or intervention of specific skills. In addition to experiencing individual success, students learn essential school and classroom routines, build social skills, and engage in cooperative learning situations. As Sara Steier stated, “students experience hands-on right way through intentional and purposeful play.”
The Jefferson teachers learned about this system at a kindergarten conference. They tried some activities in their classroom, and Crystal Hoerner reported, “[students] enjoy it! They don’t even know that it is work!” Yet, there is no question the students are learning as they engage in differentiated activities, strengthen fine motor skills, and focus on important skills that all kindergarten students need to be successful. The teachers shared, “the biggest goal for this project would be to increase student knowledge and to aim for all students to be proficient in our kindergarten standards.”
As always, the Jefferson kindergarten teachers are as excited as their students for the new school year, but now they have one more reason to look forward to the school day. Megan Miller reiterated the possibilities of “differentiation and engagement” because of the innovative learning provided by the DPS Foundation grant program. The teachers agreed, “We are so thankful to the Foundation for giving us this opportunity. It would not be possible without them.”
I want to learn more! https://www.dickinson.k12.nd.us/dps-entities/foundation/grant-program
I want to support teachers and students! https://www.dickinson.k12.nd.us/dps-entities/foundation/donate-to-the-foundation