Nestled near the center of the school, Pequenakonck Elementary School's youngest-ever students excitedly build towers, solve puzzles, and act out stories with friends. Older students peek through the classroom windows, smiling and waving to their younger siblings. The school is making history by launching its first Universal Pre-Kindergarten program, welcoming 33 enthusiastic three- and four-year-olds into the learning community. The program, a result of extensive planning and community input, aims to provide a strong foundation for these budding minds and build connections within the school community.

In Ann Marie Dunn's classroom, mornings begin with a chorus of young voices. After an initial playtime, students gather on the carpet, singing welcome songs and taking turns adding their names to the melody. They sing as they count off days on the calendar, discuss the weather, and trace the letter of the week. It's a harmonious blend of play and learning, setting the tone for the day ahead.

Dunn reads the first book of the day, "Be Who You Are" by Todd Parr, pausing to discuss the character's feelings. Inspired by an illustration in the book, the class plans to have a dance party that afternoon. Then it's time for outside play, where the children request running games like "Mr. Fox," which has become so popular that some students have taught their families to play at home.

"This has been such a smooth transition for everybody, with positive feedback all around. A lot of people were working together to make this happen, and we got off to a wonderful start," said lead teacher Renee Torchiano, who brings 21 years of experience in pre-K and special education. Dunn, whose now-grown children attended North Salem schools, has over 40 years of preschool and special education teaching experience.

The daily schedule alternates between free play and engaged learning, offering a variety of experiences. The classrooms are filled with options that spark the imagination, from kitchen play areas and costumes to building blocks and shelves of books. Daily activities include mathematics and literacy, cooperative play, and story time.

"Early childhood education prepares students for success, and this program will provide our youngest learners with a solid foundation as they begin their educational journey," said Acting Superintendent Dr. Adam VanDerStuyf. "I'm grateful to the community for trusting in our vision to meet the needs and wants of North Salem families."

The program's inception was a collaborative effort. Through forum discussions and surveys, community members provided valuable insights to the Board of Education, shaping the pre-K objectives and curriculum design.

“Being able to sit in on community meetings to hear directly from parents and community members was an invaluable resource and integral part of the process,” said Board of Education Vice President Brandy Keenan. “It gave us the confidence to move forward knowing we were working to provide something that would truly help our community and the children of our district.”

The program, funded by the New York State Education Department, runs from 9 AM to 2 PM and focuses on play-based learning, literacy, numeracy skills, and social-emotional development. The YMCA of Central and Northern Westchester provides staffing. Each classroom has a lead teacher, a teaching assistant, and an on-site program manager who oversees operations.

As the youngest students in North Salem begin their educational journey, the pre-K program reflects the district's dedication to early childhood education. It is not only about preparing for kindergarten; it's about fostering a lifelong love for learning.