John I. Dawes Early Learning Center September Highlights

The following highlights are submitted by Irene Policastro, the Secretary to Superintendent John J. Marciante of the Manalapan-Englishtown Regional School District.

Welcome Back

School got off to an early start for the kindergarten students with Kindergarten Visitation on September 5th. The kindergarten children and their parents had the opportunity to visit the school, spend time in the classrooms and meet their teachers. They also had the chance to learn about the bus rules and take a short bus ride. The visitation helped ensure a smooth transition into the ELC for the children. In fact, many children felt confident about finding their own way to their classrooms on the first day of school.  Of course, we had a sea of adult helpers to assist!  

Getting Involved

The first PTA meeting was held on September 13th and a large number of parents attended.  We have already begun planning an exciting year of events for the children and their families.  In addition, Back to School Night was held on September 24th and there was a large turn out as well. I would like to thank the PTA for providing the refreshments.
         
Birthday Celebrations

On Sept. 28, the PTA sponsored a birthday celebration for all of the children in the school who had August and September birthdays. The community room was adorned with party decorations, including a large blow-up birthday cake. The children listened to a story about birthdays, and they received a birthday sticker and a birthday book with their name written inside from the PTA. The group celebrated by dancing to party music such as the “Freeze Dance.” The children also played Pin the Tail on the Donkey, had fun with the parachute and played a ball toss game. The celebration was complete with the group singing “Happy Birthday” to each other. It was a great time for all!