When you walk into a high-quality pre-k classroom you immediately see learning occurring. A high-quality program has a sense of purpose, organization, and excitement. The following elements are critical to providing the kind of pre-k that provides the best results for children.
Teachers
Teachers in high-quality pre-k programs hold bachelor's degrees and have received specialized training in early childhood education.
Teacher aides have a child development associate credential, at a minimum.
Teachers and aides are required to devote at least 15 hours each year to appropriate professional development.
Teachers and aides are paid salaries and receive benefits that are on par with those of K-12 teachers and aides.
High-quality programs recruit teachers and aides who reflect the cultural diversity of the children and families they serve.
Families
High-quality programs respect and support each family's home language and at-home teaching efforts.
Family members and teachers exchange information about the child's strengths and successes, favorite activities, and learning progress.
Family members are engaged in the program through conferences with teachers, home visits, opportunities to assist in the classroom, and other activities.
Family members are offered information about nutrition, parenting, and social services, when needed.
Classrooms
High-quality pre-k programs allow no more than 20 children in a classroom.
Each class has no more than ten children for every one teacher.
Curriculum
A high-quality pre-k curriculum sets goals specific to pre-k and uses learning and developmental standards that are research-based, age-appropriate, and aligned with the state's K-12 standards.
The curriculum builds on each child's interests and natural curiosity and gives children opportunities to direct their own learning.
The curriculum provides daily learning opportunities for language and reasoning, science, math, block play, dramatic play, art, and music.
The curriculum provides learning opportunities in a variety of settings, including whole-class activities, work in small groups, and individual interactions with the teacher.
The curriculum supports the development of each child's home language and helps each child learn English.
The curriculum provides integrated learning across children's cognitive, physical, social, and emotional development.
Comprehensive Care
High-quality pre-k programs provide vision, hearing, and general-health screenings in order to identify children's special needs early and make appropriate referrals.
Children are offered breakfast and/or lunch and a time to nap.
All children, including those with disabilities or special behavioral needs, are provided with appropriate supports and services.
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