Preschool & Kindergarten
The Kesher Israel Preschool, started in 1990, has grown from two small classes to a full-service preschool and full day kindergarten, educating children from ages 12 months to Kindergarten age.
The philosophy of the Preschool centers on the development of a positive self-concept for the child. This is achieved through providing age appropriate experiences that strengthen socialization skills and self- confidence. All activities are carefully planned to provide a warm, nurturing environment in which to learn, play and grow.
Classes are taught by qualified teachers and teacher assistants. Enrollment is limited to provide each child with the individualized attention he or she requires.
Kesher Israel Preschool / Kindergarten Mission Statement: Kesher Israel Preschool / Kindergarten provides a warm, nurturing and stimulating environment in which a child can develop a positive attitude about himself and toward others as well as a love for learning. We provide each child with experiences that build socialization skills, encourage exploration, and foster creativity. We teach the importance of mitzvot through the introduction of Jewish customs, rituals and holidays.
Teachers: Our experienced teachers provide a safe, nurturing, and enriching classroom environment for every child. Their classroom activities are planned to accommodate each child's social, emotional, physical and academic growth in a child centered learning environment. The teachers at Kesher Israel Preschool / Kindergarten attend many Early Childhood workshops, conferences and courses to keep up with the latest developing theories and classroom practices. Some of these include:
* Gratz Certified Early Jewish Education program
* Pennsylvania Director Credential
* Directors Council for The Jewish Learning Venture- discussing current issues of concern, strategies for advocating for early childhood programs, new educational trends, techniques for working with staff, and study topics suggested by members.
* Delaware Valley Association of the Education of Young Children- dedicated to improving educational opportunities for children, birth through eight, by offering professional development and training to the early childhood community.
* Lasko Fellowship for Early Childhood Teachers in Special Education– geared to expand the special education knowledge base and skill sets of Early Childhood Teachers and Directors.
Curriculum: A wide variety of indoor and outdoor experiences provide a well balanced curriculum guided by the Pennsylvania State Standards. Gross motor activities are enhanced by our two outdoor playgrounds and a large carpeted indoor area which includes climbing equipment and bikes. The children are exposed to music, language arts, science, art, drama, math, cooking, play, social sciences, and literature through a developmentally appropria
te approach. Our preschool offers extended morning and afternoon hours to accommodate busy schedules.
Full Day Kindergarten: Kesher Israel's kindergarten class allows the children the time necessary to work on academic as well as social skills. The classroom provides an atmosphere that gently encourages children to explore, learn, and develop confidence and independence. The teachers are devoted to building reading readiness skills while at the same time providing a very broad curriculum, including language arts, math, science, social studies, geography and physical education all of which are based on the Pennsylvania State Standards.
Parent Involvement: We encourage parents of children in our school to participate in many ways. All are welcome to come and observe, help the teachers with specific activities, and/or share their talents. Many working parents assist away from the classroom by making calls on behalf of the school, preparing craft projects, or sending in supplies for specific activities. In addition, there are opportunities to become involved with our PTO and assist or chair events throughout the school year.
Judaic: At Kesher Israel Preschool and Kindergarten the children enjoy the beauty of Judaism while participating through a 'hands on' experience. They become familiar with the culture, the holidays and the customs of the Jewish religion as well as discover the importance of Tzedakah, Mitzvot and Jewish values. Our Judaic specialist provides experiences which are exciting and age appropriate for all of the children. In addition, the children have the opportunity to spend time with Rabbi Rosin every Friday morning to prepare for Shabbat, with our Religious School director, Rabbi Kravitz and our Judaic music teacher. We also foster respect for all of the different backgrounds, cultures and religions represented in the families in the school.
For more information:
(610)696-4457
