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East Lake Academy Notes
Tatiana Valdez of Waukegan and Elyssa Glaze of Lake Forest explore science during an ELA field trip.
Updated: September 17, 2012 11:36AM
PreK program combines play and learning
The PreK 4 students at East Lake Academy had something to celebrate at the end of this school year - they were all reading-using both phonics and sight words. Their teachers, one of whom is a reading specialist, have found that the right combination of age appropriate play and learning can set the stage early for tremendous academic success later on.
The number one goal of East Lake Academy’s PreK program is to prepare the students to be successful in Kindergarten. The early years of preparation at the academy are paying off: East Lake Academy alumni are earning top honors in their high schools, and the academy’s overall standardized scores are consistently in the top 10th percentile in the nation.
PreK teachers at East Lake Academy emphasize that play is an important part of the PreK program. Playtime is an essential part of a child’s development and any quality preschool program should include plenty of it. The benefits of play can last a lifetime. It is closely linked to an enthusiasm for learning. It also provides them with an opportunity to learn how to deal with disappointment and setback when their skyscraper comes crashing down.
PreK teachers at the school recognize these stages of play and the benefits they provide. Although the East Lake Academy PreK program provides academic challenges for its students, the teachers never lose sight of planning age-appropriate lessons and fun activities.
East Lake Academy is a Roman Catholic school of academic excellence serving grades PreK- three through eighth grade. For more information please contact Elizabeth Simutis, Director of Admissions, at (847) 247-0035.
