Teachers are happy with junior kindergarten program

A few months into Conejo Valley Unified School District's junior kindergarten pilot program, teachers are reporting great success.

The program, which began in September, is open to children who turn 5 between July 1 and Dec. 2 in the school year. Instead of sending a child straight into kindergarten, parents can choose to place them in a junior kindergarten program, if they think their child may not be ready for a traditional class.

Junior kindergarten exposes students to kindergarten standards and curriculum but at a different pace, and the children aren't expected to master the material.

At the conclusion of the year, the young pupils may either enter a traditional kindergarten program advance to first grade.

"It's very developmental," said teacher Colleen Poling. "They can develop and grow at their own pace. It's a very hands-on experience.

The three teachers who lead the programs in each of the district's clusters- Newbury Park, Thousand Oaks and Westlake Village- said the program is rewarding despite its challenges.

Teachers are faced with a wide variety of learning needs and experiences, and also must balance the needs of parents who want their children to enter conventional kindergarten versus those who want kids to advance to first grade.

Parents attend one mandatory parent conference and may attend two optional ones. The children receive three progress reports and report cards, so there are constant updates on a child's progress.

"They have the opportunity to learn and practice important social and communication skills," Poling said. "One of the biggest (elements) for these children is the idea of working in a classroom. This gives them more time and space to express themselves at a pace that's not so hurried."

When the junior kindergarten program was being proposed, it was touted as another way to attract families into the district during times of declining enrollment.

Janet Cosaro, assistant superintendent of instructional services, spearheaded the program. She said there are 58 children in the program and attendance has been "outstanding."

Board President Tim Stephens applauded Cosaro and the teachers.

"I can see visions of this expanding, perhaps to a.m. and p.m. programs," he said.