What is S.M.I.L.E.S.?
Singing, Moving, Interacting, Learning, Enjoying School. It is
a state-funded Early Childhood At-Risk Program. Each year the State of Illinois allocates
money for early childhood education. Starting in 2003 Peotone CUSD 207-U has received this
grant. Funding each year is dependent on a competitive grant process. This means that Peotone
must show a need for the program each year to continue receiving funds.
S.M.I.L.E.S. Eligibility
Children ages 3 and over must qualify for the at-risk preschool program.
Qualification is determined through the use of a screening device that uses play to determine developmental
level. Screenings are completed on an appointment basis. Screening information will be provided to all
parents prior to the child being screened. Part of the screening process requires parents to complete a
short questionnaire. It is very important that this component is answered completely. All information is
kept confidential and used only for the purpose of determining eligibility. Parents/guardians will be
informed of screening results and eligibility by the program coordinator. Once the child begins the S.M.I.L.E.S
program they remain eligible for the program each year until they enter kindergarten. If a parent/guardian
chooses to remove the child during the course of the school year they are not guaranteed a place in S.M.I.L.E.S
the next year. All eligibility and placement is dependent upon state funding of this program.
Program Philosophy
It is the belief of the staff that children learn best when exposed to skills
in a play-based environment. Small-group instruction meets the needs of students at all developmental
levels. Schedules should be made to accommodate the natural curiosity of a child. Opportunities for
interactive-creative play should be given each day as well as opportunities for gross-motor development.
Increased emphasis should be placed on language and literacy development through the use of the defined
curriculum. An awareness of the importance of family in a child’s education should play an integral role
in program decisions. S.M.I.L.E.S values parental input on their child’s education.
Program Structure
S.M.I.L.E.S meets five days a week for 2 1/2 hours each day. There are two
sessions, an AM session and a PM session. The school year lasts 180 days. S.M.I.L.E.S follows the same
school calendar as the school district with the exception of the first day of school; S.M.I.L.E.S starts
one day later to help families.
Curriculum
The S.M.I.L.E.S program has an established curriculum based on the Illinois Early
Learning Standards. These standards are implemented through the use of the Ribgy Pebble Soup Literacy program.
This program can be previewed by calling the program director. In addition, the S.M.I.L.E.S program firmly
believes in using play as a learning experience. Free play takes place each day as well as large muscle exercise.
Language skills are constantly being worked on. Children are encouraged to express their thoughts and needs
through appropriate language.
Reporting of Progress
Parents/guardians will receive two progress reports during the school year. The first
will arrive in December. The second will be given to you during parent-teacher conferences in May. At any time
during the school year you can request a informal parent-teacher conference. We encourage you to stay active in
your child’s education. We also encourage you to visit our classrooms on a regular basis. An example of the
progress report is included in this handbook.
Physicals
An updated physical is required for participation in the program. This physical
should show that your child is up-to-date with their immunizations. If you have objections to certain immunizations
please include a letter stating the objection. This physical must be on file prior to your child starting the program.
If you need assistance with this physical requirement please contact the program director.
Home Visit Requirement
It is required that all parents/guardians participate in a home visit 2 times per year.
The first home visit will take place prior to the child starting the program. The second home visit will take place
after the first of the year. All home visits will be pre-arranged at a mutually convenient time.
Parent Participation
All parents are encouraged to volunteer in the classroom. There are many
times where parents are needed, such as: learning centers, field trips, classroom parties, and crafts.
S.M.I.L.E.S relies on parent volunteers to help make our program what it is today. Parents are
encouraged to attend the parent nights once a month. This is a great opportunity to learn more
about your child and their developmental needs. The parent coordinator will have information
regarding these nights.
Playgroups
Playgroups are planned and scheduled by the Parent Coordinator. Twice
a month, the parent coordinator will post dates and times of when playgroups will take place.
These postings will be in the newspaper and around town at local establishments. The playgroups
are open to all district children ages birth to five years old. It is a time for them to get
together and play with other children in organized games. All planned activities are developmentally
appropriate and encourage socialization as well as large and small motor development.
Special Education Services
The S.M.I.L.E.S program works very closely with the Peotone CUSD 207-U
Special Education Department. If you feel that your child needs special services beyond what is being
offered through the program please contact your child’s teacher. The teacher will coordinate with the
program director to provide you with information regarding options you have as a parent.
Parent Education Offerings
S.M.I.L.E.S sends program parents information about the young child
on a regular basis. Please watch your child’s backpack. A resource room is available at Peotone
Elementary. The parent coordinator will be able to direct you to the resources you desire. In
addition to the resource room and information sent home, the parent coordinator schedules a parent
night one time per month. During the parent nights, a visitor comes in and speaks on topics that
relate to the health and well being of the young child. All community members are welcome to
attend our parent nights.
Safety Information
Peotone District 207-U strives to maintain a safe environment for
all staff and students. Safety hazards or potential problems should be reported to a
staff member immediately.
Asbestos Management Plan
Federal law requires that notification be made to all affected
individuals that management plan for asbestos are available in each school building.
The management plan is available, without cost or restriction, for your inspection.
Contact the main office for further information.
Disaster Alarms and Drills
Disaster alarms and drills occur as a precaution in response to a
tornado or other violent storm or emergency. The alarm for a disaster is a series of short
rings on the school bell system. In response to a disaster alarm, students shall respond to
the direction of the adults in charge and shall proceed promptly to the appropriate disaster
station. Information about disaster stations is posted in each classroom. At the conclusion
of a disaster alert or drill an all-clear signal will be sounded consisting of one ring of
the school bell system. Students shall return to their classrooms or otherwise resume the
normal school schedule at the all-clear signal.
Fire Alarms and Drills
The alarm for a fire is a continuous sounding of the school fire alarm.
In the event of a fire alarm or fire drill, students shall follow and respond to the direction of
the adults in charge. Evacuation of the building shall be accomplished in a prompt and orderly
fashion. If the alarm is a drill, the alarm will be shut off, and bells will be sounded to signal
an orderly return to class. Fire exits and procedures are posted in each classroom.
Fire Equipment/False Alarms
Students shall not touch fire-fighting equipment located in the school
building except to fight an active fire. Students shall not touch fire alarm boxes or switches
except to report a fire.
Other Emergency Procedures
Plan and procedures exist in each building for bomb threats, the presence
of dangerous individuals, or individuals with weapons on the premises. The staff receives information
about the procedures to follow in the event any of these emergencies present themselves.
Safety Information
Local fire departments and local police, and sheriff departments
provide programs and information to students during the year on fire safety at school and
at home, Stranger Danger, bicycle safety, water safety, information relating to the use of
tobacco, alcohol, and drugs and the laws governing these substances, and other safety topics.
Updated 11/29/08
Questions or comments