Watervliet UPK educators share the benefits of theme-based learning at state conference

Watervliet prekindergarten educators serve as panelists at state conference Watervliet UPK educators and director stand in front of a Sesame Street exhibit at the New York State Museum

Watervliet’s prekindergarten program was in the spotlight during Navigating Pre-K Day — a conference hosted by the New York State Education Department in early May that was attended by school administrators, business officials and members of the early education community.

UPK Director Char’lee Frament from the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Capital Area — the school district’s community partner for its Universal Pre-kindergarten program — and UPK teacher Simone Mettler presented on the best practices for the Prekindergarten Classroom Learning Environment with panelists from three other districts. Ms. Frament and Ms. Mettler shared their insights and successes regarding a theme-based learning approach in UPK classrooms.

Benefits of the theme-based approach include encouraging deeper exploration of concepts, which connects learning across subjects, and enhances student engagement and family involvement. Watervliet’s UPK teachers have embraced this practice and are seeing meaningful student outcomes.