TerraNichol Academy Of The Arts
Jr. Kindergarten 540 hr. Spring Parent/Student Welcome
Welcome Packet 2018-2019
Dear Parent(s) and Guardians,
Hello! We want to welcome all our new families to our TerraNichol Academy family. We welcome back all our existing families as well. We thought we would let you know that the TerraNichol Academy staff and Teaching Team are busy preparing for the upcoming school year and are excited to get to know all our new students and continue our goals for the existing students in making progress in their developmental skills. This year as we enter our 13th year at TerraNichol Academy we would like to introduce you to our new mantra There is no foot too small that cannot leave an imprint on this world. Make your mark! After 12 years of growth, opportunity, and learning we are excited to continue on our path of constant learning together with our families and students.
Our teaching team prides ourselves on our professional care of our students here at TerraNichol Academy and we look forward to educating your children. You are a part of our family now and we would like to extend an open invitation to stop by the office throughout the school year for informal visits. Our doors are always open to you and we value your support and input in your child’s education and development.
We offer a calming setting geared towards the needs and interests of each child. We try to take into consideration individual differences and special abilities as well as family cultural patterns.
We have an exciting year planned for many different learning opportunities. You will see new things throughout the learning labs and have the chance to engage and interact with many new and old friends. We are fine tuning our learning environment labs and the natural playscape garden and have enhanced our training as a community teaching team. We will continue to grow and refine to make your child’s school experience positive and successful. As we begin a new school year, we welcome you to our growing family and invite you to put down your roots. Included in this Welcome Packet is the following: school calendar, events, curriculum, standards and skills, volunteer co-op information, school supply list, waste-free lunch program, and information about the founder and The Reggio Emilia Approach.
2018-2019 Parent Handbook
Our parent handbook is available on our school website at terranichol.com under the resources tab. Please be sure to read completely and save. You will need to set up your own password to view the parent handbook. School will provide approval. All parents are required to read the parent handbook every year as a part of your commitment to the program. The administrative team takes time to update the parent handbook each year with new policies, practices, and information regarding your child's experiences and your parental commitments. Throughout the school year should questions arise always refer to your parent handbook as a first resource.
Parent handbook can also be downloaded by clicking on the link below.
Please save all documents on your computer to review and use as a resource throughout the school year to stay informed.
Growth Mindset Mantra: Make Your Mark!!!
Miss Terra Tominelli-Founder and Miss Michelle Educational Program Director
Spotlight Founder of TerraNichol Academy
Ciao Beautiful TerraNichol Academy School Family and Friends.
TerraNichol Academy of The Arts innovative progressive Reggio Emilia private school was founded by Terra Tominelli. We are so grateful to have this jewel of a school located in the artist district of the Englewood community.
The journey of the school began with Terra Tominelli's vision and dream to create and open a private school with an environment rich of possibilities, where learning would be meaningful and visible to the community and parents would be considered as partners. Terra’s dream of creating an innovative private school that “re-‐-‐-thinks what education should look like” became reality in 2006. She inspires her students to be “Creativi”, which means “creative children in Italian”.
Terra Tominelli entrepreneur and Early Childhood Educator for over 20 years specializing in special education and the Reggio Emilia Approach Curriculum has worked in a variety of settings over the years such as a Reggio Emilia School trainer,consultant, director of the curriculum, visual and performing arts producer, early childhood accreditation consultant and natural playscape design.
Terra Tominelli married her high school sweetheart who is a Florida native, and they have been married for 23 years and have one son who is now a college student and three lovely rescue dogs Daisy, Blossom, and Valentino.
She is an environmentalist who shares her passion for living an eco-friendly lifestyle with her students, families, community and intern staff. She was awarded citizen of the year by our local Sierra Club for her environmental efforts with the community and her students. The school has had several articles written about the unique approach, visual and performing arts program and the first eco certify school in Sarasota County. The school was also featured in the VPK state publication by the Department of Education. She was also featured in the publication The Journal of The Early Childhood Association twice for best practices in the Early Care and Education.
In 2006 she developed a relationship with local colleges and high schools to encourage and inspire students interested in the Early Childhood field to explore "The Reggio Emilia Approach and Curriculum". She developed and created a training campus site for interns to work on campus beside the Master teachers Miss Terra and Miss Michelle to gain insight and skills needed to obtain a position at a Reggio Emilia School or introduce their knowledge to the public school sectors. Each school year Interns attend this program either by semester or for the school calendar year depending on school schedule. Please give all interns a warm friendly welcome from our school family. We are always very excited to share our passion and knowledge about the Reggio Emilia Approach and Early childhood program.
Miss Terra is very involved in the learning labs, early morning greeting with students for a yoga workshop, art appreciation, music appreciation, Italian workshop, creative writing workshop, photography workshop, gardening, or Zumba workshop. Her day starts right at 8:15 am attending to the students in the learning labs. Although, her first love is teaching she has many hats to fill throughout the day such as plumber, housekeeper, EMT, therapist, accountant, marketing, social media specialist, gardener, overseeing the intern program, curriculum specialist, designer, attending early childhood meetings and so much more. Labor of Love!
In her leisure time, Miss Terra enjoys advocating for animals, volunteering and fostering for local animal rescues, spending time with family, reading a good book on the beach, attending meditation and yoga classes, educating the community on how to live an eco-friendly lifestyle and exploring paddle boarding.
TerraNichol Academy of The Arts is a school for ages 18 mos.~ First Grade. The preschool incorporates the internationally acclaimed Reggio Emilia approach to learning, which is designed to support, promote and deepen investigation, curiosity, autonomy, communication, exploration and social interaction in young children. Everything here in our learning labs has a meaning and TerraNichol Academy is comprised of many “ateliers” or working studios with themes. In addition, children have access to the Atelier “Art Studio”, Piazza “Social & Dining” area, Atelier D’Acqua “Water Exploration Area”, Parco Gioci “Play Garden”. Students also participate in enrichment workshops such as yoga, drama, Spanish, Italian, culinary arts, music appreciation, sustainability methods, creative dance, and gymnastics.
Miss Terra is always floating around the campus. Feel free to stop and chat with her.
"Don’t let the beauty fool you! The real beauty is the children, families, and the educational project here." ~Terra Tominelli-‐
Inspired Teaching Team
About Our Teaching School
TerraNichol Academy Inspired Teaching Intern Program
TerraNichol Academy Of The Arts Inspired Teaching Intern Program is a professional learning community of teachers that ensures that a diverse group of students achieve their potential as accomplished learners, thoughtful citizens, and imaginative and inquisitive problem solvers through a demanding, inquiry-based curriculum. With its clear mission and prominent location in Englewood Florida, the school serves as a model of instruction for students and training for teachers, with the goal of becoming a leader in changing the way teachers are prepared and supported and students are educated nationwide.
The Inspired Teaching Intern Program implements the philosophy and instructional methodology of TerraNichol Academy of The Arts-based educational organization that has served Englewood teachers and students since 2006, with the goal of ensuring that teachers make the most of children's innate desire to learn. Within its walls, young people learn and achieve at high levels without having to surrender their intellectual curiosity and passion for learning. The school exemplifies the Inspired Teachings of the intern program's educational philosophy and history of honoring and investing in teachers and their students.
Primary methods of instruction include inquiry and active learning, where the teacher serves as facilitator and coach to support student learning. Instruction includes an emphasis on social-emotional learning, and learning labs are characterized by student-centered organization styles such as differentiated instruction, collaborative groups, and child-initiated play.
Note: All interns are screening through an FBI level 2 background check national database.
SCHOOL GOALS
For Students: The school focuses on developing student potential in four areas: Intellect, Inquiry, Imagination, and Integrity. Students master content in language arts, communication & the Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies—and have the ability to apply their knowledge to relevant and current situations, problems, and experiences; students develop the skills of a researcher, using their intellectual curiosity to pose and solve problems; students exhibit the skills of divergent thinkers, with the courage to create, the willingness to approach problems with a joyful spirit, and the ability to play; and students develop the skills and dispositions necessary to function as members of a democratic society.
For Teachers: Teachers are held to a high standard of excellence and professionalism. Teachers demonstrate a thorough knowledge of the subjects they teach; draw on an extensive repertoire of authentic and engaging strategies for instruction and assessment, steeped in the knowledge of how children learn; contribute to a vibrant and active professional learning community; and forge strong and positive relationships not only with students, but also with community stakeholders, including families.
The Inspired Teaching Team possesses the beliefs, skills, and accomplishments that lead all students to achieve at high levels. To establish a true professional learning community, all adults in the building will be considered educators, as they will all interact regularly with students. As such, a firm belief and grounding in the philosophy and values of the school's mission are crucial for every employee. Candidates will be evaluated on the following criteria:
Willingness to embrace teaching the whole child
Potential for leadership in and beyond the classroom
Holistic, asset-based approach to problem-solving
Commitment to reflective practice
Commitment to the teaching profession
Fit with the school's organizational culture and mission
Demonstrated curriculum development skills and passion
Commitment to meaningfully assessing student learning
Ability to thrive in a start-up environment and interest in being part of the team that builds the systems that support a growing school.
Please give a warm welcome to our Teaching Interns and our teaching substitute pool, which are excited to learn more about the TerraNichol Academy program and the Reggio Emilia Approach. Please keep in mind they are participating in a teaching school. Schedules will be determined by their college schedules.
Master Teachers are teachers who have been in the field of Early Childhood Education with a focus on the Reggio Emilia Philosophy for 20 years or longer. Master Teachers have approved training to educate interested fellows in Early Childhood Education and the Reggio Emilia Approach to Learning. Master Teachers are skilled in teaching and supporting adults as well as children, as they will serve as mentors to the Teaching Fellows. Master Teachers are direct contacts for our parents in regards to questions regarding your child and the program. All inquiries should be asked of your TerraNichol Academy Master Teachers. We are here to share our knowledge and experience with our fellow interns and families.
Sincerely,
Your TerraNichol Academy Master Teachers,
Terra Tominelli~Founder
Michelle Messier~Educational Program Director
Important School Documents!
The attachments and links in this Welcome Packet are provided for you to download, read, and save for your home use. Some parents may choose to print documents such as the school calendar for your refrigerator or home office while others may input into their smartphones. Whichever is your choice, please be sure that you have all the information provided. The administrative team has worked extremely hard to provide you with all the essential information for the entire school year. Weekly blogs will also be sent out each week with reminders but it is best to be proactive and prepared.
School year calendar
The School Calendar is prepared for the school year. However, we ask that you keep in mind that sometimes circumstances beyond our reasonable control arise and dates may change. Any changes will always be communicated in the weekly school blog, the display calendars at the school, and reminders posted in the attendance computer. The school calendar is also located on our school website. www.terranichol.com
Art Studio-The Atelier Environment
Discovery and Exploration
Reggio inspired activities are about exploration and discovery; exploring with their senses, asking questions, testing theories, making plans and thinking deeply.
I wonder Question...
I discovered and explored..
- ‘Why does my shadow stick to me?’
- Miss Terra look at my shadow when I wave my arms.’
- You might notice them doing something intently, like playing with their shadow
Opportunity to provide an experience which will engage students interests.
Loose Parts The Reggio Emilia Way
Cultivating a Vision-TerraNichol Academy of The Arts Reggio Emilia Preschool
Imagine a school where teachers…
Imagine a school where students…
Imagine a school where families…
We imagine a school where teachers are inspired by the students, families, and environment that they are immersed in each day. Teachers will take a vested interest in the whole child, meeting each child’s personal and educational needs. The teaching team will nurture and support each student whole-heartedly, with respect, understanding, and love in an environment that is warm, secure, and an extension of the home. Where the teaching team is valued for their vision, their delight in children, their skill, heart and knowledge, a commitment to families and their ability to play.
We imagine a school where students are excited, inspired, and encouraged to engage and interact in the aesthetically beautiful environment from the point of arrival. We imagine students who are valued for their ability to do meaningful work and respected for their ability to play and wonder. We imagine for students to become citizens of their natural world by respecting and investing in the well being of our environment.
We imagine a school where families are valued for their bonds and traditions, their ability to play, their commitment to work, home and community and their dreams for their children.
During one of our training workshops, we were inspired by an article that really resonated with us at TerraNichol Academy of the Arts. We found this quote both meaningful and inspirational: “Beyond the right of having a school is the right to have a school that is beautiful and taken care of with an attitude of care so that parents, children, and teachers want to come to school every day. We have in some ways confused luxury with care”
We believe that terms such as luxury and expensive have been overused in our society often with negative connotations and used improperly. The gift of giving your child an inspiring educational experience is priceless. The reward is providing your child with the passion to become a lifelong learner eager to engage in new adventures. Having a beautifully aesthetic quality environment is by no means a luxury. It is the right of every child to have provided for them during the most important stages of development (0-7yrs) the window of opportunity to build the foundation as they begin their educational journey.
In conclusion a quote from Vea Vecchi stating the following:
To conclude, we believe that identifying and researching beauty and ethics is the indispensable foundation for a livable, sustainable future that everyone speaks about but that seems so difficult to bring about. It is only with an intelligent heart, with courage and with the vision that we can proceed.
Sources:
The Visionary Director Second Edition, by Margie Carter and Deb Curtis. RedLeaf Press 2010.
Tedx Talks seminar Vea Vecchi: Beauty and Ethics are Foundational to our Future, by Vea Vecchi referenced by Jennifer Azzariti Website: http://cadwellcollaborative.com/vea-vecchi-beauty-and-ethics-are-foundational-for-our-future/
We Believe...
We believe that the early childhood experience lays the foundation for all future growth and development. High-quality programming for young children enhances development and lays the groundwork for happy, healthy and productive futures. We believe that all children have limitless potential. Good teachers look at each individual child in a holistic way, respecting and nurturing each child's potential for physical, emotional, social, cognitive, creative, and spiritual growth. We believe that parents are a child's primary teachers. Parents are essential to a child's early learning and teachers in high-quality programs work with parents as partners to provide the highest quality early childhood experiences for each child.
We believe that the learning process is dynamic, involving the teachers, parents, and the children. The most effective teachers provide authentic experiences, which are relevant to children's daily lives and give meaning to each child's learning. Good teachers provide children with emotional security, opportunities to explore, take risks, succeed, fail and persevere.
We believe that each child, family, and educator is a unique and valued individual. We value and honor diversity and accept and celebrate differences in other people.
We believe each person and their family’s values, culture, beliefs, abilities, and language should be acknowledged and accepted and reflected in the school environment.
We believe that education is transformative and shares the children's journey of self-discovery and change. We believe learning is enhanced in an environment where you feel you belong. We believe in nourishing the children’s and educator’s soul, creativity and imagination.
We believe that play is essential in the lives of young children. We believe play values the idea of allowing children to “just be” and recognizes the importance of early childhood. We believe play should be fun, exciting, spontaneous, hands-on, stimulating, relaxing, comforting and challenging.
We believe it is important to provide opportunities for children to experiment, discover, explore, create, investigate, practice theories, and solve problems and express ideas with the support of other children and the educators.
We believe in celebrating children’s play, discoveries and learning through reflection and meaningful documentation. We believe children are capable, resourceful and valued members of the community. We believe children should be encouraged and supported to follow their learning interests with the support of the education community. We believe that play is essential to children’s learning and that children learn most effectively within an unhurried environment with meaningful, authentic experiences.
We believe young children bring delight and make a valuable contribution to the community and to the world. We believe children should be encouraged and supported to make their own decisions and choices and seek to actively develop positive problem-solving skills in a success-orientated environment.
We believe in providing children with opportunities to discover and learn about themselves, others and the environment in an atmosphere that encourages harmonious and meaningful relationships. We believe a sense of wonder, belonging to and love of the land, nature, and animals are critical for young children to develop lifelong respectful, positive and proactive attitudes to our environment and to ensure our sustainable future.
We believe in giving children time to play outdoors every day. We believe in the rights of children to be able to feel the grass beneath their feet, the sun on their face, experience the natural rhythms of the seasons and breathe fresh air. We believe this is essential to everyone’s well being and development. We believe in nurturing and protecting our most precious gifts – our children and our planet.
The Reggio Emilia Way! Documentation through school pictures, video and student portfolios.
Documentation, in the forms of observation of children and extensive recordkeeping, has long been encouraged and practiced in many early childhood programs. However, compared to these practices in other traditions, documentation in Reggio Emilia focuses more intensively on children's experience, memories, thoughts, and ideas in the course of their work. Documentation practices in Reggio Emilia in schools provide inspiring examples of the importance of displaying children's work with great care and attention to both the content and aesthetic aspects of the display.
Documentation typically includes samples of a child's work at several different stages of completion; photographs showing work in progress; comments written by the teacher or other adults working with the children; transcriptions of children's discussions, comments, and explanations of intentions about the activity; and comments made by parents. Observations, transcription, videos, and photographs of children discussing their work can be included. Examples of children's work and written reflections on the processes in which the children engaged can be displayed in the hallways and learning labs throughout the campus. The documents reveal how the children planned, carried out, and completed the displayed work.
It seems to us that high-quality documentation of children's work and ideas contributes to the quality of an early childhood program in at least six ways.
- Enhancement of Children's Learning
- Taking children's ideas and work seriously
- Teacher planning and evaluation with children
- Parent appreciation and participation
- Teaching team research and process awareness
- Children's learning made visible
Under The Reggio Emilia Umbrella
“The Benefits of Mixed Age Learning Labs”
Our Early and Primary aged children are 2.5 to 7 years old. Many TerraNichol Academy of The Arts students are those who have spent time in our Nido Program. However, there are those who join later in their early childhood development. The majority of students attend TerraNichol Academy of The Arts five days per week, although some children attend as little as three days per week. Our learning labs are multi-aged, meaning there is a balanced number of 2.5, 3, 4 and 5-7 year-olds floating from each learning lab. There is evidence of many potential benefits to both children and adults when children are mixed with others of different ages. The accumulated evidence of mixing ages throughout the primary school years indicates there are consistent social benefits and intellectual benefits that form of important life skills.
When a child steps into a TerraNichol Academy Learning Lab, he or she is surrounded by a comforting, home-like environment full of natural and thought-provoking materials. Children are welcome to independently select materials, companions, and to manage their play independently. As they discover areas of art appreciation, construction, creative play, sciences, math, practical life and literacy, teachers observe and document each child’s development.
Many parents mistakenly believe that mixing the ages only benefits the youngest children. However, the benefits go both ways. For example, in mixed-age groups older children more often exhibit leadership than the very same children show when they are among their same-age peers. Indeed, many older children who are not confident leaders in their own age group seem to feel more self-assured when attempting to be leaders in mixed-age groups. They also engage in more help-giving, explaining, teaching, and sharing behaviors, and show greater sensitivity to the complexities of group processes in the mix. These are useful life skills to develop.
Furthermore, in the mix, older children often facilitate the efforts of others rather than try to out do or sometimes even thwart the progress of others! In these cases, they are providing models of positive social behavior that the next generation will be able to apply when they, in turn, are the older ones.
In some cases, older children who have difficulty in regulating their own behavior improve when encouraged to help younger peers observe the rules of the group. Once teachers ask such children to remind others about the rules, they seem to be better able to do so themselves.
Many children who are socially less mature than their age-mates are less often rebuffed by the younger students. In this way, when the ages are mixed these timid older children have opportunities to practice and polish social skills with younger ones and thereby learn to use skills with the greater confidence required for competent interaction with their own age-mates.
In mixed-age groups, older children are encouraged and expected to help the younger ones. Younger children who are assisted by older ones will do the same in their turn when they are the seniors. Such early nurturing behaviors can and should be encouraged in schools not only because it is good for children in need of comfort and assistance but because it provides a model that the young recipients will use themselves. These help-giving and nurturing behaviors are life skills. Indeed, they are early forms of parent education! All through the growing years, children should have genuine opportunities to be nurturing and helpful to those who need it.
References
Katz, L. G. (1998). Twins in school: What teachers should know. ERIC Digest. Champaign, IL: ERIC Clearinghouse on Elementary and Early Childhood Education.
Katz, L. G., Evangelou, D., and Hartmann, J. A. (1990). The case for mixed-age grouping in the early years. Washington, DC: National Association for the Education of Young
Curriculum Calendars, Projects, and Standards
Reggio Emilia Project Approach Calendar and Enrichments
The Reggio Emilia Projects and Enrichment Calendar highlights the wonderful projects that students will be working on throughout the school year. Please keep in mind that projects are also added based on student interest, community events, and world happenings.
Reggio Emilia Curriculum
On a bimonthly basis, parents will be provided with the Reggio Emilia Curriculum Projects and calendars for the month. Please read and use to incorporate ideas at home, extend the home to school connection, and strengthen the learning experiences that your child is provided while at school.
Standards and Skills Form
We find it beneficial for parents to know what skills are being worked on throughout the school year. When creating the standards and skills document careful consideration is given to developmental appropriateness for each group of students. Please use this document for your child. Nido Nest skills are for students beginning their school experiences and are from 18months to 3 years old.
The Meaning Behind the School Blog
CAUTION!!! IS YOUR CHILD ENJOYING THE BLOG WITH YOU!!???
The teaching team enjoys putting the time in each week to create the school blog. From taking photos, uploading photos, writing about the learning labs, including upcoming events, supporting parent education, much time is put into each blog. We do this for all of our wonderful parents but also the students. We encourage our families to share photos and discuss the learning labs with your child. They will really look forward to doing this with you each week. This will also help them plan ahead and know what to expect with upcoming projects and learning labs.
Encouraging Self Help Skills
-Have your child eat meals at the table (refrain from high chairs, boosters, etc whenever possible) Have your child eat sitting down, not on the go or grazing throughout the day so that they know what to expect of the school routine.
-Practice drinking from regular open cups, practice pouring from small pitchers.
-Always have your child eat with utensils and work on self-feeding skills
-Allow your child to practice setting up and folding cloth placemat, napkin, opening and closing lunch containers, drink container, and lunchbox. Implement picnic lunches where your child will experience using their new school lunch materials! They will fully enjoy it!!!
-Practice safe hand washing including turning the faucet on and off independently, scrubbing all parts of the hands, drying hands completely.
-Encourage your child to cover their mouth with their elbow when sneezing or coughing and washing hands if fingers go in mouth, nose or eye. Practice blowing nose and wiping with a tissue and hand washing immediately following. These are our practices at school.
-Practice self-dressing skills including taking off and putting on shoes and socks, pulling pants/shorts/skirts up and down, putting on shirts, sweaters, and jackets.
-Practice carrying own lunchbox and backpack.
Helpful Tips and Parent Articles for the First Day of School **Please take the time to read!**
Helpful Separation Article for Parents
Through The Eyes of a Parent.
Optional School Supply List for 2018-2019 School Year
In order for the students to fully participate without restrictions or frustrations in everyday exploration and discovery please see the recommended school supplies list below and pictures.
We spend a lot of time outside rain or shine!
Over the years the teaching team has recognized which supplies hold up best for the entire school year, are easily done by the student's self-help skills, and within their development.
***Please no superheroes or characters for school supplies. Any school supplies with superhero or characters on them will be sent home. We promote a peaceful environment. ***
- Plain Hard Bike Helmet-(Please no characters or superheroes)
- 2 complete seasonal sets of change of clothes stored in the school backpack to keep on campus. (include: 2 pairs of socks, extra pair of shoes, and multiple pairs of underwear.)
If your child requires an EpiPen, due to allergic reactions, please provide a valid prescription and necessary medications labeled with your child's name in a small lock box with key.
ALL supplies including students extra clothing must be labeled. THANK YOU
If for any reason you are unable to purchase supplies please contact the administration team for assistance.
The above style of helmet holds up best in the FL heat and is recommended
Waste Free Lunch Program
TerraNichol Academy is a waste-free campus.
We use reusable trash bags, compost, recycle, reuse, reduce and upcycle.
All students will participate in our waste-free lunch program.
A waste-free lunch program is a process of educating students, parents, and school staff about where our trash ends up and how we, as individuals, can reduce the amount of trash we generate. Waste-free lunch programs favor the use of reusable food containers, drink containers, utensils, and cloth napkins. They discourage the use of disposable packaging, such as prepackaged foods, plastic bags, juice boxes and pouches, paper napkins, and disposable utensils.
****please read waste free lunch policy in parent handbook carefully for restricted items for safety and health reasons***
What to pack in your child's Waste-Free Lunch?
(REUSABLE) See example picture below.
Sandwiches and other main dishes, fresh fruit, and fresh vegetables in a reusable lunch container.
cloth napkins and cloth mat
stainless-steel forks and spoons
reusable drink containers
reusable lunchboxes
*With this type of lunch, lunch food items can be bought in larger quantities. The packaging can be left at home for reuse or recycling. Waste-free lunches are not only a wise environmental choice, but they are less expensive as well. Disposable Lunch vs.
Waste-Free Lunch
Waste-Fee Lunch
$2.65/day
$13.25/week
$477.00/Per School Year
Disposable Lunch
$4.02/day
$20.10/week
$723.60/school year
Need lunch items?
Resources:
http://www.superhealthykids.com
Where to buy waste free lunch supplies?
TerraNichol Academy Of The Arts Eco-Friendly TerraSoul School Store.
Mighty Nest- We earn 15% back to the school. Click "find School" Enter our zip code 34223 Start shopping.
Planet Box
Amazon
Teacher's favorite pick is the Planet Box.
The lunch box is durable and easy for all ages to open and unpack lunch. The lunch bag holds cloth mat, napkin, utensils and drink cup. You can order small containers for liquid and the ice pack is chemical free. The lunch bag seems to stay clean and can be washed on delicate in the washer and left to air dry. We have seen the lunch bag and box hold up for 3-4 school years so far.
TEACHER APPROVED AND KIDS TESTED.
Optional Cooperative Volunteer Program
When you enroll your child in a high-quality early childhood Reggio Emilia school, you become directly involved in their early educational career. In addition to maintaining regular tuition payments and complying with school policy and regulations, each TerraNichol Academy of The Arts family honors a number of commitments.
3 hours per quarter=6 hours per semester=12 hours per school year
Participate in the following ways
Parent will honor 3 hours per quarter.
Work as a helping parent (Parent helper will assist teaching team as a parent mentor, prepare activities, prepare projects for the month, sewing dramatic clothes, repairing toys, book orders, garden helper, making play dough or gak, bubble maker, committee member for teacher appreciation week and donate food and supplies, donate supplies each month are some of the examples of jobs. There are a variety of opportunities to fit every family's interest, schedules, and needs and families select their top choices before the beginning of the new school year.
$350 per school year purchasing items off our school wish list for learning lab environments.
$350 donation per school year.
$350 spent in school eco-friendly store per school year.
Donation to the end of the year school play.
If the parent chooses to do both shopping off of Amazon Wish List/School Store and other Volunteer items the total cost percentage would be deducted from the $350 total. Every approximate $30 spent equals 1 volunteer hour.
Example: Parent’s Amazon purchases for learning lab materials = $60 that parent receives 2 volunteer hours. The parent would have 10 volunteer hours left to complete for the school year.
Participating in our school aid co-op parent volunteer program hours requirements calls for a moderate commitment of time from our families. Our TerraNichol Academy families over the last 12 years felt it is well worth it and in turn receive the rewards of close involvement in their child's school life and the satisfaction of working within a small family community for the benefit of all. Parents' contributions of time and talent to school is an important way for children to see that their education is valued by those they love. It forms a strong bond between parent and teaching team members as well as mutual respect.
The Volunteer Co-op Book will be available for parents to sign up for projects, materials, and support at Open House!
Please comment below on the blog any talents or ways you would like to participate this year. Remember "IT TAKES A VILLAGE TO RAISE A CHILD."
Participation is optional for Junior Kindergarten 540 hours only families.
All forms of communication here at TerraNichol Academy of The Arts
Ways we keep our parents, followers, community and teaching team informed.
- Smore's School Weekly Blog sent via email.
- School Computer message at arrival and dismissal-Read your message after checking your child on the computer
- Sandbox Parent Portal
- Parent boards throughout the school
- Facebook School Fan Page-Let's become friends!
- Tweet us! Follow us on Twitter
- Instagram let's stay connected.
- Pinterest-follow our pins
- Parent Resource room has all hard copies of policies, handbook, procedures, curriculum and student goals.
What students should wear to school.
When getting your child ready for school, it’s important to consider the clothing they will wear that day. The right clothing will ensure that your child is comfortable and happy, and can focus on learning new things.
- Clothing should be practical and comfortable. Comfortable clothes that fit properly will ensure that your child isn’t distracted by what they are wearing, and can focus on playing and learning. Clothes for school should also be easy to clean and free from hazards such as dangling strings or beads.
- Ensure clothing is easy to get on and off. In school, diaper changes and potty breaks are frequent and sometimes urgent. Make sure that your child’s outfit for the day will help avoid frustration for both your child and their caregivers.
- Shoes should be safe. Footwear such as flip-flops or backless sandals are not appropriate for school. When running and playing, these shoes could increase the risk of injury.
- Clothing should be weather-appropriate. We have an outdoor playscape learning lab environment area that is used regularly, to ensure that your child goes to school with appropriate clothing for the weather. Don’t forget related things such as organic only sunscreen or organic only mosquito repellent apply prior to coming to school. Please do not apply at arrival time on campus.
- Label your child’s clothing. A school is a busy place, and items of clothing are often misplaced or forgotten by the student. Teaching Team needs to focus on the children and their learning during the day. Label your child’s clothing with their name, particularly items that will be removed such as mittens or jackets. All personal belongings must be labeled.
- Send along two extra sets of clothing. Outdoor activities, arts, and sensory play can cause clothing to become soiled during your child’s day at preschool. Make sure to send along an extra set of clothing – including socks, extra shoes, seasonal pants and shirts, and underwear – in case things get wet or have an accident. Black shoes and black clothing tend to be very hot.
What your child wears to school is an important consideration. With our guidelines for the right school clothing, your child will be comfortable and set up for a successful day of playing and learning.
All clothing and shoes should be free of superheros or any type of symbols that may convey violence per our school policy. Our campus promotes kindness, respect, and a peaceful environment. Students that come to school with any type of superhero or symbols will be turned inside out and a school reminder parent note will be sent home addressing the school policy.
IF CHILDREN COME HOME FROM SCHOOL WITH PAINT, MUD, DIRT ON THEIR CLOTHES...
BE THANKFUL.. They are positively developing all domains of their development.
- social/emotional development
- physical and motor planning development
- cognitive development
- creative/critical thinking development
- self-help, moral and adaptive
- language and literacy
Skills
- problem-solving
- sensory
- communication
- socialization
- collecting, researching and investigating information
- approaches to learning
- kindness, sharing, respect for others, respect friends words and respect for the environment and school.
- exploration
- building language vocabulary and writing skills.
- stem, math, and science
Eco Friendly School Store
TerraSoul School Store
Miss Terra has been busy restocking our school store with some new products to try including our much requested Bugs Beware Spray, TerraSoul Hand Sanitizer, TerraSoul Essential Oil Blend Rollers, Piggy Paint Products, Baggu Products, and our BetterLife cleaning products and SuperLove t-shirts. We are having custom mugs made with our TerraNichol logo which will also be available. Another great collaboration with the Open Studio Pottery Studio! Miss Terra has created yoga starter kits that can be purchased. Kits will include a handmade eye pillow, calming yoga spray and essential oil rollerball, and yoga cards to inspire families to incorporate yoga workshops at home. Also included will be suggestions for yoga story journeys to purchase for home and suggested yoga meditation song titles available for download from our school website. Namaste Yogis!!!! The school store is open and ready for your business. You can also shop our school store on our school website. Happy Shopping!
New Product Alert by Popular Demand!
Customized TerraNichol Academy Mugs!
Mugs will be customized with our TerraNichol Academy Logo! Made with Love by Open Studio Pottery Studio!
Student Yoga Starter Kits!
Spread the yogi love to your family! Everything that is needed to set a calm and peaceful yoga environment!
Wonderful Video about the Reggio Emilia Approach
TerraNichol Academy of the Arts Innovative Progressive Reggio Emilia Private School
TerraNichol Academy of The Arts School is the kind of school parents expect, educators celebrate and children adore. Our approach to learning celebrates the great potential of young children, with the goal of nurturing self-motivated, life-long learners. The learning labs are guided by our Master Teachers as well as the Founder of TerraNichol Academy of The Arts School with a low teacher-to-child ratio to allow for one-on-one engagement and thoughtful observation. Join our small community school for a backstage tour and be inspired by our thoughtful team of Early Childhood Educators here at TerraNichol Academy.
Come and Explore our Reggio Emilia program at TerraNichol Academy acclaimed for the stunning environments, their educators who create, provoke and dazzle the student's senses, invite curiosity and discovery, and most importantly, foster strong, respectful meaningful relationships.
Come learn about the values for children in the program:
Being a home away from home..
connecting children to their families..
helping children to be powerful and active..
being a steward of the natural world..
seeing oneself as a capable learner..
recognizing and being curious about..
We provide a school environment that is beautiful and taken care of with an attitude of care so that parents, children, and teachers want to come to school every day.
It is with an intelligent heart and courage that we continue our goals and vision to continue to proceed with the work of a child.
Upcoming Tour Dates:
All tours are scheduled on a Monday
March 11th 4:30 pm
April 8th 4:30 pm
May 13th 4:30 pm
June 10th 4:30 pm
Submit a school application by visiting our website if you will be attending the Tour. http://www.terranichol.com/copy-of-tour-our-campus
Email: terranicholacademy@gmail.com
Website: www.terranichol.com
Location: 701 Old Englewood Road, Englewood, FL, United States
Phone: 941-474-3000
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TerraNichol-Academy-of-The-Arts-School-257753271185/
Twitter: @terranichol