Anonymous wrote:I toured it recently and thought that there was too much emphasis on literacy in the 3 year old room and barely any evidence of great play-based materials and activities. Can anyone comment on this? Perhaps it is just that the school has very few materials yet as it is new? I noticed this in other rooms as well--this was a weekend tour so I only saw the rooms, no people. I feel that there is no need to begin formal reading at age 3, but perhaps this is just a philosophical difference. I was surprised by what I saw as I was expecting a more play-based, progressive classroom based on what I have heard about the school.

Can you name a PS3 at another DCPCS that doesn't do literacy?

Anonymous wrote:I toured it recently and thought that there was too much emphasis on literacy in the 3 year old room and barely any evidence of great play-based materials and activities. Can anyone comment on this? Perhaps it is just that the school has very few materials yet as it is new? I noticed this in other rooms as well--this was a weekend tour so I only saw the rooms, no people. I feel that there is no need to begin formal reading at age 3, but perhaps this is just a philosophical difference. I was surprised by what I saw as I was expecting a more play-based, progressive classroom based on what I have heard about the school.

There's a great balance between academics and play-based program. It's definitely not a church-basement program that calls itself "play-based" and is, for all purposes, a supervised playdate with 10 kids. This is these children's first experience with school - and it's been a very positive one. In one PS3 room, in a given day, you'll see a morning meeting, center time daily (includes blocks, dramatic play, puzzles, "writing" center with markers and drawing materials, manipulatives, art projects, reading corner, etc.), outdoor time twice daily, dance class, lunch, recess, 1.5-2 hours for naps, center time again after naps, and a closing circle. I think that the literacy you mention is instructed no more than 30-45 minutes a few times a week. There are plenty of manipulatives and materials for the kids to use. They are not teaching 3 year olds to read, they are teaching letters and sounds. It's totally appropriate instruction for this age group. I'm thrilled my DC is learning letter and numbers. They do it in a fun, easy, exciting way to create familiarity with these concepts. If it's really a concern for you, visit during a school day when you can see kids engaging in the classroom. Every kid is happy, cared for, and LEARNING.

I toured it recently and thought that there was too much emphasis on literacy in the 3 year old room and barely any evidence of great play-based materials and activities. Can anyone comment on this? Perhaps it is just that the school has very few materials yet as it is new? I noticed this in other rooms as well--this was a weekend tour so I only saw the rooms, no people. I feel that there is no need to begin formal reading at age 3, but perhaps this is just a philosophical difference. I was surprised by what I saw as I was expecting a more play-based, progressive classroom based on what I have heard about the school.

I think it will still be easier (luck wise) next year than many other coveted charters that are established and larger population wise where sibling preference takes most open slots. So even 5 open spots in pk4 at IT looks a lot better thank 5 open apps at Haynes, 2R, Stokes etc. Best of luck to anyone applying, it really is a fantastic school.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Please post this on the Google Group. It would be great for teachers in the school (not anonymous strangers) to hear your praise.

-- Fellow IT parent who was also impressed by the showcase which was as authentic a learning experience as they come - no canned holiday pageants here!

As one of those 'anonymous strangers,' who is planning on entering the lottery for Pre-K next year, it's helpful to read opinions and feedback about the school here on DCUM, so please also continue posting here.

Would someone please explain what OP was referring to regarding the 'museum.' Was this Learning Showcase hosted at a museum?

PP here. I should have said "(not JUST anonymous strangers)".

Entering PK with the current PS3 next fall? Good luck!

Since they're changing locations next year, some current PS3 families may decide to drop out. The PP, and anyone else who is interested in the school should definitely apply, because you never know how many spots are going to open up.

Sure. And they and all the other families who don't like their current PS3, never enrolled children in a PS3, children who don't get into their inbounds JKLMO PK4 will be competing for some limited number of spots. There will never be another 44 spots for that age group. I think there will likely be 10 and not more. I know more families holding onto their spot with both hands than families saying they'll leave.

10 is still more than 0. Not sure I understand why you seem to be so negative about the PP (or anyone else) applying. No one said anything about wanting 44 spots to open up. She's just hopeful that 1 will. The fact that she's hedging her bets, even with extremely low odds, is a testament to the excellent reputation of the school. She has nothing to lose, and everything to gain, and I would think that, as parents who love the school, we should be encouraging that interest.

I can see why you were thinking I was being negative. Email doesn't convey tone. My "good luck" was meant with sincerity - it will be very tough to get in to the current PS3 class, given the overwhelmingly positive experience the children are having at school this year, in addition to interest from families who fit the categories I described above. If there are 10 spots, that is better than nothing, but it will still be harder than this past year. Therefore, a "good luck"!

Agreed on all fronts PP! As a founding family, I'm looking forward to welcoming new folks into the community next year.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Please post this on the Google Group. It would be great for teachers in the school (not anonymous strangers) to hear your praise.

-- Fellow IT parent who was also impressed by the showcase which was as authentic a learning experience as they come - no canned holiday pageants here!

As one of those 'anonymous strangers,' who is planning on entering the lottery for Pre-K next year, it's helpful to read opinions and feedback about the school here on DCUM, so please also continue posting here.

Would someone please explain what OP was referring to regarding the 'museum.' Was this Learning Showcase hosted at a museum?

PP here. I should have said "(not JUST anonymous strangers)".

Entering PK with the current PS3 next fall? Good luck!

Since they're changing locations next year, some current PS3 families may decide to drop out. The PP, and anyone else who is interested in the school should definitely apply, because you never know how many spots are going to open up.

Sure. And they and all the other families who don't like their current PS3, never enrolled children in a PS3, children who don't get into their inbounds JKLMO PK4 will be competing for some limited number of spots. There will never be another 44 spots for that age group. I think there will likely be 10 and not more. I know more families holding onto their spot with both hands than families saying they'll leave.

10 is still more than 0. Not sure I understand why you seem to be so negative about the PP (or anyone else) applying. No one said anything about wanting 44 spots to open up. She's just hopeful that 1 will. The fact that she's hedging her bets, even with extremely low odds, is a testament to the excellent reputation of the school. She has nothing to lose, and everything to gain, and I would think that, as parents who love the school, we should be encouraging that interest.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Please post this on the Google Group. It would be great for teachers in the school (not anonymous strangers) to hear your praise.

-- Fellow IT parent who was also impressed by the showcase which was as authentic a learning experience as they come - no canned holiday pageants here!

As one of those 'anonymous strangers,' who is planning on entering the lottery for Pre-K next year, it's helpful to read opinions and feedback about the school here on DCUM, so please also continue posting here.

Would someone please explain what OP was referring to regarding the 'museum.' Was this Learning Showcase hosted at a museum?

PP here. I should have said "(not JUST anonymous strangers)".

Entering PK with the current PS3 next fall? Good luck!

Since they're changing locations next year, some current PS3 families may decide to drop out. The PP, and anyone else who is interested in the school should definitely apply, because you never know how many spots are going to open up.

Sure. And they and all the other families who don't like their current PS3, never enrolled children in a PS3, children who don't get into their inbounds JKLMO PK4 will be competing for some limited number of spots. There will never be another 44 spots for that age group. I think there will likely be 10 and not more. I know more families holding onto their spot with both hands than families saying they'll leave.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Please post this on the Google Group. It would be great for teachers in the school (not anonymous strangers) to hear your praise.

-- Fellow IT parent who was also impressed by the showcase which was as authentic a learning experience as they come - no canned holiday pageants here!

As one of those 'anonymous strangers,' who is planning on entering the lottery for Pre-K next year, it's helpful to read opinions and feedback about the school here on DCUM, so please also continue posting here.

Would someone please explain what OP was referring to regarding the 'museum.' Was this Learning Showcase hosted at a museum?

PP here. I should have said "(not JUST anonymous strangers)".

Entering PK with the current PS3 next fall? Good luck!

Since they're changing locations next year, some current PS3 families may decide to drop out. The PP, and anyone else who is interested in the school should definitely apply, because you never know how many spots are going to open up.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Please post this on the Google Group. It would be great for teachers in the school (not anonymous strangers) to hear your praise.

-- Fellow IT parent who was also impressed by the showcase which was as authentic a learning experience as they come - no canned holiday pageants here!

As one of those 'anonymous strangers,' who is planning on entering the lottery for Pre-K next year, it's helpful to read opinions and feedback about the school here on DCUM, so please also continue posting here.

Would someone please explain what OP was referring to regarding the 'museum.' Was this Learning Showcase hosted at a museum?

PP here. I should have said "(not JUST anonymous strangers)".

Entering PK with the current PS3 next fall? Good luck!

It was essentially a back to school night they're having every quarter. The "museum" refers to the theme of the night. Each classroom was set up to display different themes for all grades. For example, a preschool class had art/engineering exhibits from all classes grades ps-3rd grade. Another preschool class had a photography exhibit with beautiful photos of kids throughout the school as well as a great video presentation showing all the different grades doing various dancing/singing routines (most classes have morning dance routines that get the day started). Today was a professional day where each of the teachers were going to observe each class setup as well as discuss strengths and weaknesses etc. IT recently started a dance program where each class has a dance class every week, there was great photography showing them in dance class as well. I am absolutely thrilled with the school and urge all that are interested to apply even if you don't know location yet, you can assess that later.

Anonymous wrote:Please post this on the Google Group. It would be great for teachers in the school (not anonymous strangers) to hear your praise.

-- Fellow IT parent who was also impressed by the showcase which was as authentic a learning experience as they come - no canned holiday pageants here!

As one of those 'anonymous strangers,' who is planning on entering the lottery for Pre-K next year, it's helpful to read opinions and feedback about the school here on DCUM, so please also continue posting here.

Would someone please explain what OP was referring to regarding the 'museum.' Was this Learning Showcase hosted at a museum?

Please post this on the Google Group. It would be great for teachers in the school (not anonymous strangers) to hear your praise.

-- Fellow IT parent who was also impressed by the showcase which was as authentic a learning experience as they come - no canned holiday pageants here!

I completely agree!! I wanted to post last night. I was beyond impressed. I got goose bumps with excitement. I really liked the video room, almost cries when I saw the 2nd graders perform "Seasons of Love". I really like that I saw about every family from our class there.

I could not have been more impressed and amazed by what I saw as I walked through the 'museum.' It far exceeded my expectations, and once again affirms how fortunate my child is to be a part of this special school! Kudos to all the teachers and staff!