Academics: Little Chiefs Preschool

mculcasi@hopatcongschools.org

The Little Chiefs Preschool Program is a lab, within the high school, taught by our student teachers. It is available to Hopatcong residents with children who are three years of age and eligible for kindergarten at the start of the 2024/25 school year. All children must be fully potty trained (out of pull-ups). The program will run three days per week on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 9:15-12:15. It will begin October 12, 2023, and end TBD in June 2024. The program is free; however, the parent/guardian is responsible for providing transportation. For additional information, please contact Mrs. Michele Culcasi, the preschool teacher, by email, at mculcasi@hopatcongschools.org.

Application Process

The Little Chiefs Preschool Program is a lab, within the high school, taught by our student teachers.  As this program is facilitated by high school students, it may not be the best fit for all children. In order for the high school students to complete their assignments, the preschoolers need to work with their student teachers cooperatively and effectively for it to be a mutually beneficial experience. If you think your child would be a good candidate, please begin our application process. 

Click here for:

Physical Exam Paperwork

Allergy Action Plan

Pre-School Intake Form

Seizure Action Plan

Asthma Action Plan

Media Release Form

Religious Exemption

Pre-School Application

Curriculum

The Little Chiefs Preschool is a free preparation program for Kindergarten that includes a variety of curricula approved by the New Jersey Department of Education. The program adheres to the Preschool Teaching and Learning Standards set forth by the State of New Jersey. Under the direction of a dual certified teacher, with a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education, high school students will be both teachers and observers in order to gain confidence, knowledge, and experience working with young children.

Our one-to-one ratio makes amazing things possible; every lesson is tailor-made for your child and their progress is charted daily. Teacher-driven instruction promotes early literacy, science concepts, and growing math skills. Student exercises support these lessons using individualized instruction, learning centers, and of course- PLAY!  

This is a high-energy environment filled with lots of discovery centers, art, crafts, stories, blocks, bikes, icky squishies, and plenty of opportunities to experiment with a wide variety of materials.

Disclaimer: Please note that this is a lab for a high school class. In order for our students to be successful, they will be required to complete their assignments in a timely fashion. We reserve the right to enroll another child in your child’s place if your child requires more structure than student teachers can provide, your child is not sent all 3 days per week, and/or has poor attendance.

 

Watch the Little Chiefs Preschool Graduation Video

 

 

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