Parents, educators concerned about preschool enrollment
A dozen students of Peabody's Sunshine Preschool performed a Thanksgiving program Monday morning for residents at Legacy Park. Decked out in Native American costumes they made and decorated themselves, the youngsters sang several songs, told the audience which Indian names they had selected for themselves, and passed among the residents to shake hands and wish them a happy Thanksgiving.
Of the many concerns swirling around public education in Kansas today, one is easily addressed by local parents — school readiness. Peabody is fortunate to have a preschool program for children as young as three years of age. However, local educators and members of the Sunshine Preschool board of directors have recently noted declining enrollment.
Peabody City Clerk Cindy Harms is a member of the preschool's board of directors. She is the mother of three, two of whom have enjoyed the experience of attending Sunshine Preschool. "I support the preschool wholeheartedly," said Harms. "I would not have gone on the board if I didn't believe in the program."
Harms said her oldest daughter, Kendra, was timid and shy when she enrolled her in the program. "It was the best thing that could have happened to her," said Harms. "She was 100% prepared socially and academically when she entered kindergarten. I think one of the reasons she excels in school is because of the preschool experience."
Amy Bayes, whose son Ryan was a participant in the program at Legacy Park, is the director of children's services at the Newton Public Library. She has been a keynote speaker at several workshops and conferences dealing with the education of young children.
"As part of my job, I am in close contact with a lot of preschools," said Bayes. "I have found that Sunshine Preschool has an excellent program that combines challenging educational activities with an engaging social interaction." Bayes is one of the parents concerned about the drop in enrollment the school has experienced this year. "There is no reason NOT to give your child the head start that is available here in Peabody. The preschool's director and her aide provide a loving environment that allows children to be themselves, learn from their mistakes, and understand consequences. The end result is a child who is confident and well-prepared for the first day of school."
There is a tuition charge for all Sunshine Preschool students. The three-year-old class meets twice a week for two and a half hours each day and the pre-kindergarten class (made up of four- and five-year-olds) meets three times a week for two and a half hours a day. The tuition for the younger group is $40 a month; for the pre-kindergarten students, it is $50 a month.
"That really isn't much for what is essentially a private school," said Harms. "There are scholarships available. We expect all parents to pay at least half the tuition, but we have a fund to help out with any child. If we have more applicants than money, we will go out and find the funding."
The tuition and private donations pay for the staff, operating expenses, and materials the children use in their activities.
Harms also indicated that youngsters may enroll at any time during the school year. "We don't break it into semesters or quarters," she said. "Parents can get their children started anytime."
Venita Loewen, kindergarten teacher for USD 398, echoed her support of the program. "The students receive many social and emotional benefits from preschool. It teaches them to function in a structural setting and introduces them to pre-reading and basic skills that they will build upon in subsequent years," said Loewen. "Our preschool has high academic standards with competent instructors who provide a warm atmosphere."
Harms added that the school systems in Kansas would probably see some severe cuts in programs and services in the next few years. "Peabody-Burns will be in the same boat as every other district. It just makes sense for parents to give their children whatever advantages they can. The preschool experience is one of those advantages. It's available and affordable and it's a proven plus in our district."
