 Our Kindergarten program encompasses a developmentally appropriate curriculum. The children’s existing and emerging abilities are coordinated, but they are also provided challenging experiences where they can continue to grow and develop to their fullest potential.
Our language arts program focuses on enhancing listening and communication skills, and on emerging literacy skills. We use a variety of instructional strategies to achieve our goals such as print and phonemic awareness exercises, guided and shared reading through the use of Big Books, and multi-sensory activities. We practice correct letter formation through the Handwriting Without Tears writing program.
Our math program is activity based in which children manipulate concrete objects and are presented with experiences which develop logical thinking and problem solving skills. Developing a solid understanding of basic math concepts is an ongoing process throughout the program.
The Franklin Academy Kindergarten program provides opportunities for children to:
- Build knowledge through experience
- Problem solve and work cooperatively
- Develop time management techniques
- Develop critical and analytical thinking skills
- Experience success as they actively participate to explore the world around them.
 Neelu Bali
Lead Teacher
I have a B.Ed. degree (Elementary) from the University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada and a Bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies from the University of Windsor, Canada. I have completed graduate coursework in Reading and Language Arts at Oakland University. I hold a Michigan Professional Education Certificate. I have taught Pre-K and Junior K at Echo Park for seven years. Prior to teaching at Echo Park, I worked as a substitute teacher for the Birmingham and Bloomfield Hills school districts. I also taught Extended Day Kindergarten at Hickory Grove Elementary School, Bloomfield Hills.
 Ann Schumaier
Assistant Teacher
I have a B.S. in Business Administration from the University Of Detroit Mercy. For 18 years I worked in the Banking Industry. In September of 2000, I joined the staff of Echo Park
Pre-School as an Assistant to the Teacher. Throughout the years I worked with children ages three through five years.I enjoy reading,cooking and gardening. |
