CONTACT: Jane Koivisto, Title I
teacher (koivistj@ortrail.k12.or.us),
Phone: (503) 668-8065
Oregon Trail School District Web Site: http://www.oregontrailschools.com/ BACKGROUND:The Oregon Trail District’s mission focuses
on increasing student achievement. Recognizing that early intervention is a critical part
of student success in school, last year Title I staff explored a program to engage the
parents of 3-and-4-year-olds with positive school experiences – and give them a
head-start in reading and math with fun activities. They visited Scott Elementary School
in Salem and planted the seeds for Oregon Trail’s Little Steps to School Success at
Sandy Grade School. The program was expanded to two more schools this year.
WHAT THEY DID: Parents are a
child’s first teachers. But knowing what is needed to prepare a child for school
success doesn’t necessarily come naturally. Title 1 staff and kindergarten teachers
have found a way to help parents of three and four year olds develop their child’s
language, intellectual and behavioral skills. The Little Steps to School Success program
introduces preschoolers, and possibly an intimidated or slightly skeptical parent, to the
supportive environment of their local elementary school. Four to five times per year
families are invited to participate in fun educational activities while learning what is
needed to prepare a child for school success.
Under the direction of Title 1 coordinator Jane Koivisto,
the program is planned with the following three specific goals:
- Introduce the neighborhood school as a welcoming and
supportive environment.
- Model early learning experiences that are enjoyable and
appropriate for home settings.
- Convey the importance of certain state-specific early
learning tasks, in preparation for school.
The program is in its first year at Firwood, Welches and
Cottrell Elementary Schools. Sandy Grade is in its second year. Families are invited
through area preschools and local newspapers; Title 1 low-income families are personally
invited. About 20 families are involved.
The evening programs are lively, with families rotating
from activity to activity. Teachers model how to read a book to kids in a way that draws
them into the story. The children go home with their own book, thanks to the support of
the Oregon Trail Education Foundation. (Title I funds a portion of the teacher time
involved, but the school district is fortunate to rely on dedicated, volunteering teachers
who believe strongly in early childhood programs.) Parents leave with a packet of
activities and tips to keep the learning process going in their own home.
RESULTS: Sandy Grade Kindergarten
teacher Yvonne Stave feels there is strong anecdotal evidence of the programs success.
Kindergarten students whose families attended last years events are "more confident
and self-assured, and don’t seem to experience separation anxiety."
According to School Board Chair Mike Forzley, who has a
strong background in early childhood development as national director for Friends of the
Children, "anything you do for young children now will pay off in spades in the
future." |
