Pre-Kindergarten
Four- and five-year-olds have a natural enthusiasm and love of learning.
Our seasoned team of early childhood specialists helps students grow in self-awareness and curiosity while supporting our youngest Derby students as they develop into confident, joyful learners.
Full Day Pre-K Program
In Derby Academy's full day Pre-Kindergarten program for four- and five-year-olds, children are celebrated for their unique qualities as we create a classroom community with a sense of belonging, significance, and fun. Our full day program allows us to offer our youngest learners specialist-taught classes in Spanish, art, music, physical education, and library, while also having ample time for play- and inquiry-based learning.
Pre-K Highlights
- Important Books
- School Gardens
- Field Trips
- Math Morning
- Storytime
- Pals Program with Grade 8
- Pajama Days
- Life Cycles: Chick and Butterfly Hatching
- Fairy Tales: Gingerbread Man Run!
- Ninja Warrior Obstacle Course
- Celebrations of Learning
Academics
Academic learning is scaffolded, with specialist support in math using the Bridges in Mathematics curriculum. Writing focuses on a gradual shift from talking to drawing to writing. Our thematic curriculum teaches self-confidence, critical thinking for information, inclusion of diverse cultures, as well as ideas, history, geography, and the world at large.
Specials
“Specials” are fully integrated into the curriculum led by highly trained instructors that teach lessons in Spanish, music and movement, art, library, and physical education. In keeping with our focus on the performing arts, Pre-K students perform a class musical at the end of the year on the Larson Hall stage!
Integrated Curriculum
Multiple cross-curricular experiences happen throughout the year with all of our specialists as children explore literacy, math, social studies, science, and STEM through multiple lenses. The Pals program pairs Pre-K students with Grade 8 students as they meet for special projects, fun, and exploration.