A core part of the Y’s curriculum is to ensure every pre-schooler is ready for kindergarten. This year, two Early Learning Corps members joined our team to support that goal, working with 41 children between the ages of 3 and 5. Together, they conducted 948 tutoring sessions to strengthen math, comprehension, and language skills.
Kathryn Lillie, or "KD" as she is known, was integrated in the classroom and lead songs during morning circle time, which helped her connect with the students.
"We as tutors are trained on learning-based language when it comes to playing which can look like comparing the differences and similarities between objects, asking open-ended questions, or letting the child lead the conversation in order to make them more comfortable," she said.
ECDC Director Ashley Adkins shared just how impactful that support has been.
“KD in particular has brought in so many fun, creative ways to learn that truly prepare everyone for kindergarten. It’s really important to all of the teachers and staff at the ECDC that our students are ready for kindergarten. KD has gone above and beyond—quickly becoming a member of the classroom and a teacher the kids look up to and respect,” she shared.
Megan Herrick, a lead teacher in one of the pre-school classrooms shared that she works with her students on phonics, letters, and numbers. But with a big class, it can be a lot. The early learning corps members can take one student at a time and give them the individualized attention they need.
“The early learning corps members work one-on-one with our students which is so amazing. KD has created wonderful relationships with our students,” Megan shared.
By the end of the school year:
- 100% of students were on or above target in early math inventory and comprehension skills
- 97.5% of students were at or above target in vocabulary/oral language skills
- 60% of students were at or above target in phonological awareness
- 80% were on or above target in alphabet knowledge
KD said it is bittersweet getting ready to send the students off to kindergarten.
"It is definitely bittersweet watching them head to kindergarten, with the excitement for their new beginnings and a lingering sadness knowing I can't watch them continue to do great things. I know they are all ready to continue their learning and will hopefully have extra confidence when approaching concepts they may not know," she said.
At the Y, we believe early victories set the foundation for a lifetime of learning and confidence—and with the dedication of our staff, parents, and partners, we are helping our youngest learners start their education strong.