SRECC Mission Statement

Mission

The Sycamore Run Early Childhood Center is a new entity, but certainly not a new program - we proudly trace our heritage to the River Valley Community School and Preschool (formerly located in Athens). Although the community school has closed for a while, we will carry on its basic mission and philosophies as they apply to our preschool program. We have modeled our curriculum, classrooms and policies after those well-established by the years of dedication put forth by River Valley families and staff.

At Sycamore Run, we believe that it is our responsibility to enhance children's natural learning process by exposing them to new experiences and hands-on activities. Our program aims to nurture children's development and is guided by the following principles:

Children learn from their communities. This process begins with their own life experiences - family life is integral to school readiness. It continues with peer interactions and relationships with children of other ages, and blossoms as children come into contact with a wider community and the natural world.

Our programs are developmentally appropriate. This means they are based on the interests and capabilities of children at different ages and on the understanding that individual children develop at their own pace. We focus on developing knowledge and skills that are integrated throughout the program.

Cooperative learning and individual learning are important components of our program. Children work together in groups within their classrooms, and in other classrooms through projects and special activities. Older children also have opportunities to choose their own projects, follow their own interests, and have learning experiences geared to their abilities.

Discipline and Guidance at Sycamore Run is positive. Children have opportunities to develop skills in conflict management, in understanding and expressing emotion, and setting appropriate limits in the context of the community.

We are advocates for children. We listen to them, respect them, and share ownership of the school and programs with them.