Philosophy

Administrative and programmatic policies are undergirded with a statement of beliefs about teaching and learning. A philosophy statement is a means of thinking deeply about PreK teaching and the beliefs upon which decisions are made. This is separate from a mission statement, which answers the question, "Why do we exist?" and articulates the PreK purpose both for those in the organization and for the public.

The written philosophy statement is developed and reviewed by administrators, staff, and GSRP advisory groups. It is included in the program’s Family Handbook. It establishes a framework for program decisions, goal setting, and is guided by the ECSQ, grant requirements, and expectations. The philosophy statement also addresses local, social, economic, cultural, and family needs; and is promoted widely via websites, recruitment materials, classroom newsletters, the family participation group, etc.

Consider the following as the philosophy statement is crafted or reviewed:

• Why PreK is important: What is the purpose of PreK? What is the PreK provider’s role?
• Those we serve: How do we support diversity, equity, inclusion, and a sense of belonging among enrolled children? How do we define our community of learners? What is our relationship with the community, families, teaching colleagues, and administration?
• Approach and content: What are our beliefs about how children learn? How do our beliefs affect our work?
• Program administration: Curriculum selection; instructional strategies AND teacher-child relationships; child assessment; program evaluation; and program improvement efforts for individuals, the classroom, and program.