It is with great excitement that we report the institution of an all-day kindergarten program at both Prides Corner and Saccarappa schools beginning this fall. For over two years, a committee has been exploring the concept, and we are grateful that the School Committee and City Council have supported this new venture. Superintendent of Schools Stan Sawyer has also been an avid supporter of a full-day program.

Through our research and visitations to other schools that enjoy an all-day kindergarten, we learned that there are numerous benefits for students. The highlights of our findings include:

o The gift of time to explore new knowledge and engage in more in-depth learning

o Teachers will have time to broaden learning experiences

o More relaxed, less rushed, comfortable atmosphere

o Increased opportunity for creative play and concept exploration

o More extended problem-solving time in mathematics

o Increased time for socialization, which is crucial at this age

o Easier transition into first-grade

o More flexibility for field trips excursions

o More time for teacher-student relationship building

o More time to address Maine Learning Results

o More time to explore expanded themes

o P.M. kindergarten won’t lose out on half-days and early dismissals as in the past

The staff is extremely excited about our new program. At the end of the first year, we will have an opportunity to assess our progress, and make comparisons in student growth. As in any new adventure, assessment and change in the second year will only serve to continue improvement for our students.

As the school year begins, the kindergarten students will be picked up later than the Grades-one-through-five students, during the first quarter. Kindergarten pick-up will begin at 8:15. We feel that this later start will provide an easier transition for the children. School ends at 3:15. All Kindergarten through Grade five students will ride the afternoon busses. Bus assignments will be mailed for each student by Aug. 8. If you do not receive a post card, please contact the Transportation Office at 854-0807.

If you have any questions, please call Prides Corner School at 797-5222 or Saccarappa School at 854-0847.

Prides Corner is welcoming Janet Crawford as its new principal. Saccarappa School will welcome Kathryn Charest as its new principal.

John G. Flaherty and Sharon T. Orlando are the former principals of Prides Corner and Saccarappa schools, respectively.