REACH Preschool

A Center for Early Childhood Development

REACH Dear Parents and Guardians,

Welcome to the Region 12 REACH Program!

REACH is a preschool program serving children in Bridgewater, Roxbury and Washington. Our well-trained educators provide an enriching early childhood education in an integrated elementary school setting. REACH follows a developmentally appropriate program aligned with the Connecticut Early Learning and Development Standards. Our goal is to bring learning to life through discovery, hands-on activities and positive social interactions.

The purpose of this flyer is to introduce to you our staff, and to answer frequently asked questions. If you are interested in our program, please visit www.region-12.org and click on the REACH tab to access the pre-registration page. If you should have further questions, please feel free to contact us.

Sincerely,

Allyson O’Hara, Director of Pupil Personnel

oharaa@region-12.org

Emily Judd, Washington Primary School Principal

judde@region-12.org

Connecticut Early Learning and Development Standards

The Connecticut’s Early Learning and Development Standards (CT ELDS) outline what children from birth to age 5 should know and be able to do.

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO KNOW - Q & A

What days and hours are you open?

Monday through Friday, 9-12 or 9-2.

How much does it cost?

TBD

What is the difference between the half day and extended day program?

The students who participate in the extended day program are provided with additional opportunities to enrich and reinforce skills introduced in the morning.

What is an integrated preschool program?

REACH provides a caring and nurturing program where students with special needs work side by side with their peers through purposeful play activities.

Does the program provide time for snacks/lunch?

Students bring a snack from home for mid-morning. Those students who stay for the extended day program also bring a lunch from home or may purchase milk and/or a cold lunch prepared by the school district. Students eat their lunch in the classroom.

Is there an outdoor space for physical activity?

Students are provided with an enclosed space with developmentally appropriate play equipment. In addition, students are offered motor activities in the gym.

How many children are in each class?

The number of students depends on the enrollment.

How many teachers in a room?

A minimum of two adults are in each classroom.

What experience does the staff hold?

The teachers are certified in both Early Childhood and Special Education.

Who else works with the children?

We have a Physical Therapist, an Occupational Therapist and a Speech and Language Pathologist that work weekly in each classroom. Students may also have learning opportunities with the music and physical education staff.

Can my child take the bus?

Parents should plan to transport their students to and from the REACH program as transportation is not guaranteed. A decision is made each summer to determine if the district can provide transportation to the families who request it. Parents who request transportation and have completed all registration requirements by May 1, will be informed of the district's transportation decision for the upcoming school year during the summer months.

Are you on the same schedule as Region 12?

Yes. However, there are some differences with weather related circumstances.

What is your program’s curriculum philosophy?

REACH is a play based learning program inclusive of the Connecticut Early Learning and Development Standards which can be found on the ct.gov website.

What ages can attend?

Children need to be 3 years old by September 1st of the academic year.

What if I have concerns about my child’s development?

We offer free screenings and evaluations as needed. Call for an appointment, 860-868-

6100.

How are the classes made up?

Classes contain mixed age groups and ability levels.

Do the preschoolers interact with the elementary students? As a school, we are eager to embrace new and dynamic ways to include our preschool students in our full school community. The preschool students have several opportunities to interact with the elementary students. Preschool students participate as appropriate in school wide assemblies special events and as buddies to other classes. In addition, many of the elementary students serve as helpers to the preschool and guide students during arrival and dismissal times.

MEET OUR TEACHERS

Jill Horan

I have been teaching for over 20 years and feel so grateful to be a part of the REACH preschool program at Washington Primary School. We foster each child's interests and encourage the involvement of family members as part of our greater community. Our preschool classrooms are wonderful spaces that offer children the opportunity to learn through play and social interactions, as well as adult-led activities. We learn something new and have fun every day.

Ann Wescott

I have been teaching for over 20 years in the REACH program. I feel very fortunate to spend each day with Region 12's earliest learners. Our days are filled with play, adventure, sharing and exploration as we gain skills and make new friends. Students also participate in enrichment programs that enhance the creative arts and sciences. When I am not at School, I enjoy cooking, hiking, collecting sea glass and traveling with my husband, daughter and son.

Kimberly Schramm

The Region 12's REACH preschool at Washington Primary School is a fantastic program for our youngest students. Our play-based and social focused approach to early learning allows students to develop regulation of their energy, emotions, and attention (along with many other skills). I have been an early childhood teacher since 2012 and always strive to create a classroom that is happy and peaceful. I feel so lucky to be part of such an incredible program and school community.

CONTACT US

REACH

Regional School District 12

11 School Street

Washington Depot, CT

Allyson O'Hara

oharaa@region-12.org

860-868-6100

www.region-12.org