In fall 2020, after seeing the need for more early learning in Kosciusko County, the Parkview YMCA opened a half-day preschool for children in the community, ages 3 to 5.
That program was met with more demand this year, prompting the YMCA to add an afternoon class as well.
Not only has the YMCA increased the number of preschool seats, they also implemented a research-based curriculum called HighScope, according to a news release from the Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce. This educational approach emphasizes active learning, which means students have direct, hands-on experiences with people, objects, events and ideas.
Children’s interests and choices are at the heart of HighScope programs. They construct their own knowledge through interactions with the world and the people around them. The HighScope educational approach is consistent with the best practices recommended by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).
The YMCA’s early education staff attended training over the summer months and will continue to meet regularly over the school year for professional development in a learning community.
The training for the YMCA staff was made possible by LaunchPad, with a grant from the Dekko Foundation.
