McKinley Early Childhood Center Thrives with New Programs and Activities | Local News

KXLG – Watertown, SD Shannon Knopf, McKinley Early Childhood Center’s principal, provided an overview of the current school year and the various programs and activities offered to the Watertown School Board.

Knopf highlighted the educational opportunities and support for the district’s youngest learners…

McKinley Early Childhood Center offers a range of programs for preschool and kindergarten students. This year, the center expanded its junior kindergarten program to four sections, providing more opportunities for early childhood education. All kindergartners are now housed at McKinley.

Students at McKinley also participate in special subjects, including art, music, physical education, health, and library time. These activities aim to foster a love for reading and learning. Knopf emphasized the importance of teaching social skills and school expectations, such as using the bathroom, eating in the lunchroom, walking in the hallway, and playing safely on the playground.

The center conducts childhood developmental screenings for families interested in assessing their child’s development. The next screening is scheduled for January, with appointments available through McKinley’s website…

All students are provided with breakfast and lunch, and preschool classes are eaten together each day. Recess is held daily, even in colder weather, allowing children to enjoy outdoor play.

McKinley features a sensory room for children who need a break from the classroom or require occupational and physical therapy. The center also offers special education services, including the birth-to-three program, direct services for three-year-olds, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech and language services for qualifying students.

Listen to the entire meeting audio below:

To accommodate working parents, McKinley introduced new transportation options this year, including buses that transport children to and from daycare. This initiative has been well-received and utilized by families.

Knopf announced that the next school year’s kindergarten roundup and preschool screening will take place on March 17th and 18th, just before spring break.