Soirée Kids: Igniting Imaginations in Pre-K

The Pulaski County Special School District is committed to providing an excellent education for all students in pre-K through 12th grade. PCSSD’s pre-K program is available at 14 of its elementary schools and is a free, standards-based program that aims to build strong foundational skills that help prepare students for kindergarten.

PCSSD Executive Director of Communications Jessica Duff spoke with pre-K teachers across the district: Mary Allen of Oak Grove, Jessica Weaver of Baker, Shelley Freer of Landmark and Leah Green of Sherwood Elementary. They shared what they love about teaching the district’s youngest students and what makes PCSSD a standout choice for pre-K parents.

Q: What are your goals for your students?

Allen: I want them to develop a love for learning, feel confident in their abilities and build strong relationships with their peers. Beyond academics, I hope to inspire a sense of curiosity, kindness and resilience that they carry with them long after leaving my classroom. Most importantly, I want each student to feel valued, supported and encouraged to reach their full potential.

Q: What is your favorite part of teaching pre-K?

Weaver: Social-emotional learning is one of my greatest passions to teach. Developing the skills to engage with others respectfully and empathetically is essential, both in school and in life. I take great pride in watching my students develop the skills to interact and problem-solve with their peers.

Q: What sets the PCSSD pre-K program apart?

Green: Our incorporation of AVID strategies within the district helps students to learn strategies that they will continue to incorporate into their learning throughout their school career. It also fosters an understanding from a young age of career options and readiness.

Freer: We have several wonderful teachers and paras that have been working at PCSSD for many years. These employees are able to build strong relationships with families year after year with each child/sibling that passes through our program.


About PCSSD:

Pulaski County Special School District spans more than 600 square miles in central Arkansas and requires highly skilled and passionate personnel to adapt educational policies and personalization to 25 schools. Every school is accredited by the Arkansas State Board of Education. PCSSD has served schools across Pulaski County since July 1927.

PCSSD is committed to creating a nationally recognized school district that assures that all students achieve at their maximum potential through collaborative, supportive and continuous efforts of all stakeholders.

501.234.2000 | pcssd.org



 

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