We begin Kindergarten by getting to know one another, learning and reviewing social skills, and creating classsroom expectations.  It is important for us to bond as a classroom family to ensure a comfortable learning environment.

Kindergarten as a grade has changed tremendously in the past few years.  Our learning is done through less play and more structured activities; however, we do still have fun.  Not only will we learn the basics of letters and numbers, but it is our goal for all students to enter first grade reading and writing with confidence.

All areas of academics are addressed through large and small group activities, discussions, games, and flexible grouping.  Meeting the needs of all children is a high priority at Highwood Hills Elementary.

Our daily schedule is as follows:

8:50 - 9:10     Arrival and breakfast in the cafeteria

9:10 - 9:30     Morning Meeting

9:30 - 10:10   Math

10:10- 11:10   Reader's Workshop/Theme

11:10 - 11:20   Break

11:20 - 11:50   Lunch

11:55 - 12:15   Recess

12:15 - 12:45  Rest/Quiet Time

12:45 - 1:00    Story Time

1:00 - 1:50     Specialist--Physical Education, Science, Computer or Social Skills

1:50 - 1:55     Break

1:55 - 2:10     Handwriting

2:10 - 2:45     Writer's Workshop

2:45 - 3:05      Theme/Vocabulary

3:05 - 3:20     Developmental Play

3:25 - 3:35    Closing Meeting/Dress for Dismissal

3:35 - 3:37    Closing Song

3:37               Dismissal  

Students have the weekly opportunity to go to the Library to check out books as well as an extra half an hour of specialist time.