The Temple Beth Zion Plan And Learn School (PALS) provides the highest quality of education and care available for the young child. As an integral part of our synagogue family, the preschool is a collaborative effort on behalf of children and their families. Our purpose is to provide high quality programs that enhances each child's physical, social, emotional, intellectual, creative and spiritual development in warm and nurturing surroundings. The Jewish component of our programm integrates thoroughly into the daily classroom activities. An inclusive atmosphere helps families to feel comfortable and supported through their child's early education.

A safe and respectful environment supports children, parents, teachers and Temple members alike.  Mutual concern for the well being of children creates an atmosphere where all parties communicate, frequently and openly, on behalf of children.

We support parents to our fullest capacity. It is our belief that you are your child's greatest teacher. Parental involvement is welcomed and encouraged. The school addresses the needs of both children and their families through parent education and family events. This helps create a supportive, nurturing atmosphere.

Teachers are provided resources and ongoing professional development to further their abilities to educate and care for children.

Temple members have opportunities to support the school's activities through volunteerism, policy setting and participation in the daily activities of the children.

ABOUT THE PLAY AND LEARN SCHOOL

THE ROLE OF OUR CLERGY

Our clergy participate in many aspects of the Play And Learn School. Since the Judaic component of our school is so important, clergy involvement is key to our success. The school operates with a value system that is built upon the principles of Judaism as practiced at Temple Beth Zion, and so the clergy are teachers and resources for Jewish learning. With offices located nearby, the clergy are involved on a regular basis. Each will play a role to develop and support our understanding about Shabbat, holidays, concept of God, nature, love and concern for each other. The presence of our clergy enriches our environment and provides an important link to the congregational family.

ABOUT THE TEACHING STAFF

Our teaching staff includes a minimum of a Head Teacher and Assistant Teacher for each classroom. Depending on class size, an additional Assistant Teacher may be assigned to a classroom. Each individual brings an educational background and/or experiences that relate to group work in early child care and education. Continuing staff development is a high priority in our program. Staff members are required to attend workshops, seminars and courses throughout the year and inservice is often included in the regular staff meetings.

Joining the PALS faculty are teachers from the Visually Impaired Preschool (VIP). Where children are fully included in our classrooms, VIP teachers participate in collaboration with the PALS faculty. Shared staff development opportunities also join the two professional organizations.

We take great pride in the positive, warm and nurturing approach that characterizes our teaching staff. Children feel comfortable and at-home in this environment. This comfort is key as we facilitate their education. We seek to hire individuals that can fully support our program goals.

In addition to the regularly scheduled classroom staff, specialists are hired to provide us with their services in order to enrich the existing activities. Specialists may teach art, music, cooking, library, fun-fitness, movement, drama and physical education.

In some instances, where parents and PALS faculty agree on the need for extended resources, other resource professionals, such as psychologists and special education experts will be consulted to insure that each child in our program is provided an optimal experience. Parents are first consulted prior to the beginning of any such evaluation.

HOLIDAY CELEBRATIONS

As a Jewish preschool, the focal point of our program becomes the Jewish calendar and its many holiday celebrations. Our goal is to introduce the basic concepts and symbols for each holiday that will have meaning to our youngest learners. Teaching children about their Jewish heritage from an early age will support the development of a positive Jewish identity. Values and ideas that can be brought to light will also be introduced with the celebration of each holiday. Our parents will be provided with information prior to each holiday celebration and both our clergy and faculty will be available to answer questions about the holidays.

CELEBRATING SHABBAT