Franklin Borough school hosts free preschool

FRANKLIN — Preschoolers in the Franklin Borough School’s new full day free preschool program had a great first week.
Students spent the week actively learning by exploring materials through natural play as well as interacting with the environment, events and other people. The district currently has three preschool classrooms, but will be expanding to four in the fall. Teachers and instructional aides in the program have been trained in the HighScope curriculum which ​focuses on supporting early learners as they make decisions, build academic skills, develop socially and emotionally, and become part of a classroom community. In addition to implementing a high quality curriculum, the district is working with master teacher Dr. Pamela Brillante to ensure the students are engaged in developmentally appropriate practices and learning through play in every classroom.
Brillante has extensive experience working with preschoolers, including preschoolers with disabilities. She worked for the New Jersey Department of Education as an Early Childhood Specialist and is a tenured Associate Professor at William Paterson University where she specializes in Disability Studies and Early Childhood Special Education. Brillante is also the author of two early childhood books.
The program at the Franklin Borough School is free and open to students reaching age three on or before Oct. 1, 2018 or 2019. Enrollment for the 2019-20 school year will begin in March for Franklin Borough residents.
Call the school if you have any questions about the program 973-827-9775.