Preschool Aide Jan Williams works on identifying letters with students at the Early Learning Center.
August 21 was an exciting day in the Westerville City School District for students, parents, teachers and staff, because that is when doors opened wide to welcome new preschool and kindergarten pupils.
Some 240 children began their educational journey at the Early Learning Center Preschool, led by Principal Suzanne Kile. Morning and afternoon classes for youngsters are offered there.
Also that day, approximately 1,000 kindergartners lined up and marched into their rooms at various locations, where book bags were unloaded, revealing an assortment of brand new pencils, crayons, glue sticks, folders and markers. After a gentle explanation of rules and regulations, learning got underway. By the week’s end, both teachers and students had settled into a happy routine.
All-Day kindergarten in Westerville has grown in popularity since its inception in 2015. There are now 18 All-Day classrooms – four at Longfellow Elementary and one in each of the K-5 buildings. Alcott and Pointview both accommodate two All-Day kindergarten classes. In addition, 26 Half-Day kindergarten classrooms are located in buildings throughout the district.
This year’s kindergartners will graduate in 2031.