PreK

Our full-day PreK program at Fabius-Pompey Elementary School provides young learners with a welcoming and nurturing introduction to school. Taught by certified teachers, the program is designed to support the whole child through a balance of academic, social-emotional, and developmental learning experiences.

Teachers use evidence-based, developmentally appropriate curriculums including Eureka2 for mathematics, Really Great Reading Launchpad for literacy, Heggerty for phonemic awareness, and Second Step for social-emotional learning. Themed units and a variety of engaging learning centers are thoughtfully planned each month through collaborative teacher efforts.

Daily morning meetings and closing circles help students reflect on their learning and foster essential social-emotional skills such as empathy, cooperation, and self-regulation. Enrichment opportunities in art, music, physical education, and library further support student growth and creativity. Our UPK program builds a strong foundation for kindergarten and a lifelong love of learning.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Who is eligible for PreK at Fabius-Pompey Elementary?
Children who turn four years old on or before December 1, 2025 are eligible to enroll in our full-day Pre-Kindergarten program. The school day runs from 8:05 - 2:15pm.

Who teaches the PreK program?
Our program is taught by certified teachers, ensuring high-quality early learning experiences for all students.

Can my child ride the bus to and from school?
Yes, students can ride the bus once they have turned four years old. Families will need to arrange alternative transportation until their child reaches the required age if they have a fall birthday.

What is the focus of the PreK curriculum?
Our program prepares students for Kindergarten by focusing on:

• Early literacy and math skills through engaging centers and hands-on activities
• Social-emotional development to help children build friendships and independence
• Play-based learning to encourage creativity and exploration
• Special area classes including art, music, library, and physical education

 

Daily Schedule & Classroom Experience
What does a typical day in Pre-K look like?
A typical day includes:

• Morning meeting and structured play
• Literacy and math center activities
• Snack and recess
• Special area classes (art, music, library, PE)
• Lunch in a smaller setting with additional staff supervision to assist with opening milk and other items
• Rest time (30 minutes)
• Choice centers / indoor recess
• Social-emotional learning
• Closing circle and dismissal

 

Will my child have time to rest during the day?
Yes, students have a 30-minute rest time each day to help them recharge. Students are asked to bring in a blanket to use with a school provided cot that raises students off the floor. If your child no longer naps, students are provided with books to look at as a quiet alternate independent activity

How do meal times work?
Students are provided with breakfast and lunch at no cost. PreK students are closely monitored and have additional staff supervision to assist with opening containers, etc. PreK students eat lunch in a smaller setting with only their peers.

Will my child have additional support for fine and gross motor skills?
Yes, our PreK program provides opportunities for students to develop fine and gross motor skills with the support of an occupational therapist (OT) and physical therapist (PT) two times a week.

Does my child need to be potty-trained to attend PreK?
We encourage students to be toilet-trained, but we understand that accidents happen. Teachers and staff will provide support as needed.

What if my child has special needs?
If your child has an Individualized Education Program (IEP), we work closely with families to provide access to appropriate support services. Contact the Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE) for more information at 315-683-5465.

What if my child has difficulty adjusting to PreK?
Starting school is a big transition! Teachers provide gentle guidance and reassurance, and families can help by establishing routines at home and practicing separation before the first day.

Will my child be able to see the classroom and meet the teacher before school starts?
Yes! We are have a Meet & Greet event at the end of August for students and families to come into school, see the classroom, meet their teacher, and bring in any supplies before school begins.

How will I know what my child is learning?
Teachers provide regular updates through classroom newsletters, parent square, or folders sent home with student work. Families will also receive progress reports and report cards with opportunities to conference with teachers throughout the school year.