The First Grade Adventure Begins!
Students hit a major milestone in their educations career.
First grade is a big step from kindergarten. There are many new responsibilities, new routines, and a deepening of their academic subjects. Our students are eager and ready for the challenge!
"While first graders still have plenty of fun, there is more independent learning and higher expectations throughout the day," said Lower Elementary Lead Kate Krawiec.
First graders have more independence than before. Rather than sitting at tables, they have individual desks where they complete some of their work. They must be able to manage their desks as well as the contents, like books, folders, crayons, and pencils.
First grade teacher Sarah Brinson made a point to her class of highlighting a desk that had well-organized contents as an example for her students to follow. Of course, at JCDS all school supplies are provided for each student.
"Every day is getting smoother," said First Grade Teacher Emily Mills. "We are adjusting to our routines."
Reading and writing are two of the most crucial elements of the first grade curriculum.
"It's amazing to see how much they grow!" said Ms. Krawiec. "They start with blending sounds to create words, then turn those words into sentences, and sentences into stories and books."
Ms. Riley Shea had her first graders arranged on the carpet while they brainstormed words they knew that began with a certain letter. It was a good exercise in recalling their background knowledge of certain words, looking at the correct spelling on the board, and begin making those connections in their heads.
"Kiss your brain!" Ms. Shea would tell a student when they got something right.
Students got the chance to get to know one another by showing and talking about items in their "Me Bag." Each students was asked to put five things that would fit into a small sack, and share what makes them unique.
"It's really fun to learn about the kids this early in the school year," said Ms. Brinson. It helps us build connections."
The first grade will be a magical time for the students, as well as the adults, who will see the young Sharks mature as learners and future adults.
"First grade at JCDS is wonderful because everything we do is with the students in mind," said Ms. Krawiec. "We challenge them, but only as much as is developmentally appropriate."
Jacksonville Country Day School
Located in Jacksonville, FL, Jacksonville Country Day School is a private school for Pre-K 3 through 6th grade. JCDS prepares students for a healthy and productive lifetime of intellectual exploration, character development, and social responsibility.
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