ACADEMICS, CONFIDENCE, LEADERSHIP

A Bespoke Kindergarten Experience

Who wouldn’t want their child to learn in an environment where they are treated as an individual with a lesson plan tailored specifically for them? At AFM, our 1:7 teacher-to-student ratio extends to our kindergarten program, enabling our educators to provide one-on-one instructional time with your child every day. In contrast, the AZ teacher-to-student ratio is 1:20.

At AFM, there are no limits to learning, allowing your child to advance at their individual level and pace for as long as they attend our program. In contrast, traditional public and charter schools do not have the resources necessary for children to learn at their own rate, which can leave some students struggling to keep up while others feel disengaged as they wait for their peers. Even charter schools typically only accommodate learning that is one or two grade levels above the enrolled curriculum. To support personalized education, we utilize a Montessori-oriented database system, allowing us to record daily progress for each child and generate tailored reports. Our meticulous record-keeping and observation methods ensure that we can follow each child’s unique pace, enabling us to accelerate their learning or revisit concepts as needed.

Math

The math curriculum in kindergarten moves well beyond counting and cardinality, though those skill sets certainly come into play as students begin to explore more complicated concepts. AFM kindergarten students use their algebraic thinking skills when they engage with Montessori materials to explore the four major operations of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. These operations are expanded to include multi-digit numbers in both static and dynamic forms, allowing students to write and record questions while fluently reading mathematical sentences.

Concepts such as time, measurement, fractions, and graphing are explored through both the experinces with the classroom materials and hands-on experimenting. Unlike traditional methods that emphasize memorization, AFM’s math curriculum is designed to cultivate a deep and concrete understanding of math concepts, ensuring that knowledge is retained throughout their academic journey.

Science, Geography and Engineering

In geography, AFM students study both cultural and structural aspects, learning the names and definitions of countries, states, capitals, and various geological formations like archipelagos and isthmuses. Kindergarten students can take a closer look at a specific continent or country, learning details about the customs, dress, and food preferences of the people who live there.

Students learn about Earth and Space Science, studying weather and the various patterns and motion of the sun, moon, and planets. They learn about how weather patterns and techtonic shift within the Earth can change the geography of the landscape. In Life Sciences, kindergarten students learn the differences and similarieties between organisms in the phylum Chordata. They learn to identify the bones, organs and systems of the human body.

Kindergarten students engage in hands-on Engineering experiences and experiments that foster independent research and investigation. They learn how to define simple problems or questions, collect and interpret data, and analyze the results.

Language and Literacy

The AFM language and literacy curriculum focuses on decoding, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. Students at the kindergarten level delve into parts of speech such as nouns, adjectives, articles, verbs, and prepositions, while gaining a thorough understanding of sentence structure and advanced language concepts, including contractions, verb tenses, punctuation, and grammar. They participate in regular creative writing activities that foster a vital connection between their expressive thoughts and the effective communication of ideas.

A more finely honed focus on spelling skills and following written directions is implemented across the AFM kindergarten curriculum in all subject areas. Curriculum based, daily individualized reading instruction leads kindergarten students to graduate as competent and confident readers.

For a comparison, review Arizona kindergarten standards here: azed.gov/standards-practices

Testing and Preparation for First Grade

In the second semester, students begin weekly spelling tests, learning effective study techniques and test-taking procedures, discovering that assessments are an exciting opportunity to showcase what they know. As the school year progresses, teachers review all previously taught concepts to solidify skills, and through their kindergarten experience, students internalize and master concrete concepts in preparation for abstract thinking. By the end of their time at AFM, students are introduced to more traditional learning styles to ensure a smooth transition to their next educational setting, learning to follow detailed instructions and work independently. Additionally, all kindergarten students practice public speaking by participating in our holiday programs, gaining confidence in front of an audience and overcoming any fears associated with public speaking. Each student concludes their kindergarten year by delivering their own written speech during our graduation ceremony.

One of the most distinctive aspects of the AFM Kindergarten experience is the leadership role embraced by our oldest students. Unlike traditional settings where kindergarten students are typically the youngest, our children step into leadership responsibilities as early as 5 or 6 years old. They have the opportunity to assist younger peers by modeling appropriate behavior and reviewing their work, often showcasing the skills they have already mastered. This process reinforces their academic knowledge while significantly boosting their confidence and self-esteem. Such assurance in their abilities allows children to tackle new learning experiences with courage as they progress. Additionally, kindergartners often support teachers by demonstrating skills or leading activities, which further nurtures their genuine self-assurance. The social and emotional advantages of our mixed-age Montessori classroom extend beyond academic confidence. In today’s smaller families, an only child may not experience the dynamics of being the youngest or oldest sibling at home. Our Montessori environment allows them to embody both roles. Kindergartners learn to care for younger friends and help them remember the important rules that ensure safety. They develop conflict resolution skills with peers and understand the value of compromise. They have ample opportunities to collaborate with classmates and other age groups, honing their interpersonal skills. Through our Character Counts curriculum, kindergarten students explore important values such as trustworthiness, fairness, respect, responsibility, and good citizenship, discovering that demonstrating good character fosters trust and respect from others.

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AFM students enter first grade equipped with strong academic, social, and emotional skills. First grade teachers eagerly welcome AFM graduates, knowing our high expectations and exceptional preparation set students up for success. The kindergarten year in a Montessori environment solidifies earlier lessons, embedding them into the child’s understanding of core concepts. With numerous opportunities to make independent choices, our graduates emerge as self-directed learners with robust critical thinking abilities. AFM’s comprehensive kindergarten program ensures that our graduates transition seamlessly into traditional first grade, ready to thrive from day one.

Will My Child Secure a Spot for First Grade at our Desired School?

Placement for first grade is often on the minds of parents, as certain charter school admissions staff may suggest that securing a spot for your child hinges on their registration for kindergarten. While it is important to understand that enrollment at charter schools is not guaranteed, it remains true that each year, graduates from AFM kindergarten successfully transition to first grade at a variety of charter schools across the valley. It is essential to keep in mind that charter schools are not inherently superior to district public schools, so we recommend consulting the Arizona Department of Education for school test scores. Additionally, when selecting a school, it is wise to consider their attrition rates, as some charter schools may counsel out a considerable number of students annually to maintain high test scores.

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AFM graduates enjoy priority registration at New Vistas Center for Education due to their remarkable preparation. Furthermore, district public schools provide tuition-free Gifted Programs, and many AFM students secure admission to these programs at the first grade level each year. All schools highly regard our graduates, as their staff recognizes the academic readiness, behavior, and independence of our children. Our graduates significantly enhance their school’s test scores, owing to their strong grasp of the essential concepts being assessed.