Hello Racer Families, I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend! This week’s article highlights the great things that have been happening at the Early Childhood Center this year.
In September, students at the ECC had “Recess with My Grown-Up” and celebrated local first responders with a luncheon and fed 25 EMS, policemen and firefighters.
October was a month focused on reading with a “Grandparents and Goodies,” lunch at the Book Fair, “Fall into Reading” literacy night, and Title 1 parent meeting. The Newcastle Fire Department gave a presentation on Fire Safety to all the ECC students during Fire Safety Week, and the school hosted its annual Veterans Day Parade on Veterans Day.
Throughout the month of November the ECC had more than 75 guest readers on campus from the community to read in classrooms. In December, the ECC hosted its annual holiday meal before cheering on the Racer football team.
An English Learner Parent night was held in January, where parents were informed about the upcoming Access testing and the academic support that is available for their students at the ECC. PreK and Kindergarten students were able to dance and sign with their parents/guardians at the Stephen Fite Contest at the Newcastle High School Auditorium.
Additionally Nurse Heidi Furnish and her assistant Amanda Mars coordinated with Oklahoma City Community College to host a Health Fair for all the students at the ECC.
In March, students celebrated Read Across America Week and had more than 500 people attend our Dr Seuss Literacy Night. The ECC also collaborated with the McClain County OSU Extension Office to hatch eggs before and after spring break.
The ECC has also focused on improving student attendance, resulting in a 6% increase in student attendance from last year at this time.
The ECC has been intentional about working to support families by conducting attendance meetings.
Finally, the ECC has implemented a character education program this year, focused on developing social skills, conflict resolution and how to be good citizens.
Thank you to all of the teachers, staff, administrators and parents at the ECC for doing great things for kids!
It’s a great day to be a Racer!
Dr. Cathy Walker
Superintendent Newcastle Public Schools
