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17 <br /> <br />children will benefit most from the kinds of developmental experiences we offer in our preschool <br />classrooms. <br /> <br />Our program is grounded in the National Association for the Education of Young Children’s <br />philosophy of developmentally appropriate practices (NAEYC). Classrooms are child centered <br />and designed to promote the development of the whole child, including all developmental <br />domains described in Foundations, North Carolina’s early learning standards (approaches to <br />learning, emotional and social development, health and physical development, language <br />development and communication, and cognitive development). Learning experiences are <br />meaningful and relevant for every child and reflect his or her developmental, cultural, and <br />individual circumstances. Our curricula also emphasize the areas of self-regulation and <br />emotional awareness, early literacy and math skill building. <br /> <br />Every effort is to ensure that each child feels welcome at school and is helped to develop a <br />strong sense of self as a successful learner. The indoor and outdoor classroom experiences <br />include many opportunities for hands-on active learning with real materials and nature. The <br />students spend time each day working in several learning centers, including science, math, <br />writing center, reading corner, block play, manipulatives, dramatic play, sensory play, the safe <br />place, where they make choices and use materials in creative and thought-provoking ways. <br /> <br />Our Title 1 Blended Pre-K classrooms are inclusive, serving children, ages 3-5 years, who <br />receive special education services. Placement is determined by need of services indicated on <br />the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) by the OCS IEP Team. Our classrooms offer <br />opportunities for children of all abilities to play and learn together. We believe that adaptations <br />that make an experience accessible for children with learning barriers can enhance other <br />children’s experiences, as well as developing respect, understanding, appreciation and <br />empathy in all children. <br /> <br />The Title 1 Blended Pre-K program believes that children learn best when families and schools <br />form a respectful, trusting partnership and work together. Families are encouraged to get <br />involved from the beginning with our DIAL 4 assessment clusters, home visits, visiting the <br />school and classroom, on-going, daily communication, volunteering, parent conferences, <br />Children as Teachers Family Days, field trips, newsletters, all with the goal of keeping the <br />parent as a partner to help the child be successful. Open and honest communication between <br />teachers and families is important in making sure we are working together to support the child <br />at home and at school. <br /> <br />The Title 1 Blended Pre-K program is for children who are four or who will be turning four by <br />August 31st of each school calendar year. It is a requirement that families and their children live <br />within the attendance areas served by the Orange County School district and meet income and <br />developmental eligibility requirements. <br /> <br />Our Title 1 Blended Pre-K classes are funded with a blend of federal Title 1 funding, state North <br />Carolina (NC) Pre-K funds (Smart Start), the Exceptional Children’s Program and Orange <br />County Schools funds. There are limited tuition placements available at each school site for <br />families whose income does not qualify for NC Pre-K placement. <br /> <br />Applications are accepted throughout the school year, for the current school year. Completed <br />applications are processed, screened ranked for Title 1 and NC Pre-K by the Pre- K Team. <br />Eligible children must be at risk of failing to meet North Carolina’s academic achievement