Alternative Kindergarten
the Right Starting Point for Some Students
The Alternative Kindergarten (AK) program has been a staple in the District for more than 25 years. More than 160 students participate each school year in the optional half-day program.
“Designed to meet the needs of the younger five-year old, AK gives parents the opportunity to allow their child to grow another year before entering an all-day educational program,” explained Val Dolezal, principal of Grant Early Childhood Center.
Preference is given to children who have birthdays between June 1 and September 15. To be eligible for AK, children must be five years old by September 15. A year of AK is always followed by a year of full day kindergarten.
Alternative Kindergarten is neither a preschool program nor a version of half-time kindergarten. Students work on academic skills but the main focus is social and emotional development.
The program provides for varying rates of growth and development. Different levels of ability are expected and accepted. Students participate in a
balanced program of teacher-directed and child-selected activities; active and quiet activities; and large group, small group, and individual activities. There is a focus on developing strong in social skills, teaching children to develop and maintain meaningful relationships. An emphasis on positive guidance also helps children develop self-control and learn to take responsibility for their actions.
Parents considering AK for their child should ask themselves the following questions:
- Does my child like to play with other children?
- Does my child initiate conversations with others?
- Is my child willing to share materials?
- Is my child afraid of new situations and environments?
- Can my child easily accept “no” for an answer?
- Can my child keep his or her hands to self?
- Does my child show an interest in learning letters and numbers?
- Can my child sit attentively when being read to?
- Does my child show good self control?
- Does my child have preschool experience?
A ‘no’ answer to more than a few of the questions could be an indication that a child would benefit from Alternative Kindergarten, according to Dolezal.
Parents who are interested in AK should contact with their neighborhood school counselor or principal to determine if this is an appropriate option for their child. Parents should also plan to attend Kindergarten Registration (held in February) at their neighborhood school. Additional information about AK and how to apply for the program will be available at that time.
Alternative Kindergarten Program sites for 2009-2010
Garfield Elementary School, 1201 Maplewood Drive NE; 319-558-2169. (Serves the attendance areas of Wright, Pierce, Nixon, Hiawatha, Gibson, and Garfield.)
Grant Early Childhood Center, 254 Outlook Drive SW, 319-552-2020. (Serves the attendance areas of Wilson/Grant, Taylor, Van Buren, Harrison, Cleveland, Madison, and Hoover.)
Monroe Early Childhood School, 3200 Pioneer Avenue SE, 319-558-2176. (Serves the attendance areas of Erskine, Grant Wood, Johnson, Arthur, Polk, and Kenwood.)
Coolidge Elementary School, 6225 First Avenue SW, 319-558-2167. (Serves the attendance areas of Coolidge, Truman, Gibson, and Jackson.)