In preparation for fire prevention week, early learning kindergarten students and staff at Pius XII school welcomed firefighters from the Minnow Lake fire station. Students learned about fire safety, firefighters’ protective equipment and explored the cabin of the firetruck. They practiced techniques such as “stop, drop and roll” and learned about the importance of fire detectors and evacuation plans. ELK students enjoyed sitting in the driver’s seat of the firetruck and many were overheard telling friends “when I’m older I’m going to be a firefighter too!”

With the increased emphasis on community outreach and parent involvement in ELK classrooms, Pius XII school is pleased to announce their “Read With Me” program which offers parents the opportunity to come into the classroom to read with the children. The program was launched during Catholic Education Week and featured a comic story about the night before Mother’s Day. After the reading, students shared their plans for their Moms and made connections to other similar texts read throughout the year. ELK teams are always looking for ways to promote a love for reading and this program is doing just that!”

With the recent addition of ipad centres in the ELK classrooms at Pius XII school, many students are opting for time with technology during play! The kindergarten classrooms received 4 ipads each loaded with interactive games focused on the development of students’ fine motor, literacy and numeracy skills. The classroom teachers and early childhood educators also each received an ipad to help facilitate the documentation of student learning. A welcomed tool to help in the recording and organization of student observations! “We are fortunate to be at a school in a board that recognizes the importance of introducing technology to students at an early age. The ipads provide the ideal environment for a 21st century learner!” explained classroom teacher, Camille Heaton. “Almost all of my students got the ipad in hand and began navigating it and its application with ease.” she added.

Since September, ELK (Early Learning Kindergarten) students at Pius XII school have been engaged in play-based learning and loving it! Mrs. Heaton (classroom teacher) and Mrs. Monaghan (ECE) believe that carefully planned play centres focused on inquiry in the six areas of learning are key to students’ knowledge development and skill building.
For example, the house center was transformed into a fruit market last month and students were encouraged to write their grocery lists using classroom resources posted at eye level. This month, ELK students will write letters to Santa and family on real stationary in the kindergarten post office. An authentic way for young writers to practise printing skills!
Given the holiday season, the “Polar Express” center was recently added. Some ELK students re-enact scenes from the movie “The Polar Express” which they viewed the week previous to the center opening while others creatively add new scenes of their own. ELK students learn about taking turns, cooperation, and problem solving while engaged in meaningful play. These skills are key in helping students become friendly and positive group members!
The ELK team members are thrilled with the progress made by all of the students in kindergarten at Pius XII and congratulate them on a tremendous start to the school year!