SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — In December, the Scranton school board unanimously approved the reintroduction of a preschool program, now the Pilot program is up and running.
The preschool program is thriving once again for Scranton School District, welcoming the youngest learners back into the classroom.
Every morning, preschool teacher Ariana Pillier warmly greets a lively group of students, eagerly gathering around for circle time to shake out their 'sillies'.
"We're doing 'H' and '6' right now so they'll do the letter sounds, they'll do words that start with the letter H, we'll count to 6 with different manipulatives that they use, and we also do some things in our science center," explained Pillier, preschool teacher, Charles Sumner Elementary.
Staff say every day is an adventure and a chance to see the kids experience those rewarding moments when they grasp a new concept.
"It's super fun, when they get something and seeing that light bulb, it's super nice," said Pillier
"They come in and give you big hugs and just smiles all day long and they're just so excited to learn," said Lisa Owens, principal, Charles Sumner Elementary.
As the preschoolers spend the day mastering letters, numbers, and even social skills, it is giving them a headstart before entering kindergarten.
"They get the basics, they get the socialization skills, they get the basic reading and writing skills, and I'm just amazed at the progress they have made as a group," explained Owens.
The school district is thrilled, this Pilot program marking a promising start.
"I'm really happy that this Pilot worked and that we're looking to expand into the 25-26 school year," said Dr. Erin Keating, superintendent, Scranton School District.
"This is a great thing for the people of the city of Scranton, the children of the city of Scranton, and their parents because its a place for them to be in school and learning all day," explained Al O'Donnal, assistant superintendent of community relations, Scranton School District.
Dr. Keating and the school board say they are aiming to add in at least three more programs next year and build up the program further from there.
