By Erica Moore, Weakley Co. Schools Communications Director

Dresden, Tenn.–With last week’s commemoration of the Week of the Young Child, Weakley County Schools is emphasizing the critical role of early learning in children’s development and lifelong love of learning. Throughout the week, students in Pre-Kindergarten classrooms across the district engaged in a variety of enriching activities designed to foster creativity, collaboration, and exploration.

From Music Monday to Family Friday, each day in the Week of the Young Child offered unique opportunities for students to grow and thrive. At Sharon School and Greenfield School, special guests serenaded students with guitar melodies, while Martin Primary School’s Pre-K classes enjoyed a memorable music session led by Music Teacher Pam Sliger. Meanwhile, at Dresden Elementary and Gleason School, students enthusiastically played instruments and participated in a spirited sing-along, enhancing their musical appreciation and social skills.

During Tasty Tuesday, students indulged in delicious treats, lending a hand in creating their own delicious snacks. Dresden Elementary students enjoyed a tasty, fun snack in the classroom. Sharon and Greenfield Schools savored homemade ice cream, while Martin Primary School enjoyed snacks provided by Blackberry Pond Farms. Gleason School’s students were treated to delectable snacks from Simply Southern restaurant and Say Cheese Charcuterie Boards, fostering not just enjoyment but also social interaction and community engagement.

Work Together Wednesday saw students working together in lots of in-class activities that encouraged teamwork, problem-solving, and creativity. Gleason students planted flowers with Mrs. Doris Owen and even created life-size letters of the alphabet. Martin Primary students read a story called “Planting a Rainbow” and then worked with each other to create their own rainbow. Learning to work together helps lay the groundwork for future success both academically and socially.

On Artsy Thursday, students explored their artistic talents, with activities ranging from outdoor painting at Sharon School to art sessions with the art teacher at Dresden, Greenfield, and Gleason schools. Martin Primary School students had the opportunity to express themselves creatively by creating a mural inside the school, further enhancing fine motor skills and imaginative thinking.

The week culminated with Family Friday, where students and their parents enjoyed Popsicles together, strengthening bonds and creating lasting memories.

Karen Fowler, Pre-K Family School Consultant for Weakley County Schools, emphasized the importance of this week and early childhood education.

“Pre-K classrooms play a pivotal role in setting students up for success. By providing a nurturing environment and engaging activities, we help children develop essential skills that serve as the foundation for future academic achievement,” said Fowler.

Supervisor of Elementary Instruction, Terri Stephenson, expressed her enthusiasm for the hard work of teachers and students.

“Our Pre-K program is truly exceptional. Our Pre-K team of educators work hard to provide a nurturing environment where children can learn, explore, grow, and thrive. There are still open spots for registration, and we encourage families to consider taking advantage of this opportunity. What children learn in the Pre-K classroom is not just play – it’s the foundation of lifelong learning,” said Stephenson.

The Weakley County Schools Pre-Kindergarten team is comprised of Marla Rook, Dresden Elementary; Tara Hughes, Gleason School; Julie Arnold, Greenfield School; Beth Mathews, Sharon School; Jennifer Lamb, Sharon School; Michaela Frederick, Sharon School; Ashlyn Penick, Martin Primary; and Taylor Zantop, Martin Primary.

The Week of the Young Child was established by the National Association for the Education of Young Children in 1971, recognizing that the early childhood years lay the foundation for children’s success in school and later life. By providing high-quality learning experiences from an early age, every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

To learn more about the voluntary Pre-Kindergarten programming at your school, visit weakleycountyschools.com/pre-k

or contact the Weakley County Schools at (731) 364-2247.

Photo: Working together at Sharon Schools.