Educational Philosophy
The foundation of the curriculum is educating the whole child. Teachers tailor the curriculum to meet each child’s individual needs. SLS strives to instill intellectual curiosity and creative thinking. Art, music, science and cooking are interwoven throughout all programs.
Children leave SLS with a solid foundation for a successful next step. Kindergarten readiness skills are introduced and practiced in every program - Two’s, Three’s, Four’s and Pre-K.
SLS has excellent relationships with San Francisco K-8 institutions. Each year, the SLS administration guides families through the kindergarten application process culminating with a successful placement for their child and family.
The Academic Guiding Principles
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Cognitive
We understand that each child’s learning ability is unique. Developmental milestones are recognized and respected, as we look to integrate the whole child. Students are presented with an astonishing range of subjects and activities throughout the year in order to ignite interest in content as well as further skill development.
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Physical
SLS recognizes the critical nature of a child’s natural and rapid physical development in these early years. Each day has its share of movement from fine motor to gross motor, and we look to strengthen each child’s core, agility, grace and self-control. We make a conscious effort to meet the active and eager delight each child seeks in movement.
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Social/Community
The connection between home and school is the foundation to a child’s appreciation of and confidence in learning. We work in partnership with our families to ensure a rewarding preschool experience for all. Grace and courtesy are an integral part of our curriculum as we continually reinforce the importance of manners, respect, kindness and support for one another.
Approach
At SLS, we focus on providing a warm, safe, and welcoming environment where young children can thrive with the support of passionate, talented teachers who teach with intention and purpose. We value our close partnership with the parents of our students and embrace the daily delights of being with preschool children.
Our goal is to instill a love of learning and intellectual curiosity in each child through a carefully structured curriculum that balances academic instruction, social interaction, and artistic expression while encouraging children to be independent, self-reliant, and capable students. The foundation of our program is respect - for one another, for ourselves, and for the traditions that we celebrate.
