Español de México Call to apply: (503) 838-2745
Language(s) spoken with children by staff: English & Spanish
Culturally specific program: Our program values cultural and linguistic diversity. We provide bilingual classrooms, with approximately 50% of instruction in English and 50% in Spanish. Our staff reflects the cultural makeup of the communities we serve. No matter what language a child speaks when they enter our program, our goal is that they leave our classrooms with skills in 2 languages. When families other than the dominant cultures of the classroom enter our program, we collaborate with the family to integrate their language and culture into the classroom. Our goal is to be inclusive of the homes and experiences of every child enrolled.
Educational philosophy or approach: We believe that every single child should be cared for, educated and loved. We prepare young children for success in school, which prepares them for success in life. We also support parents to help families learn and grow together, and we help families engage with their community. We believe that school readiness begins with social emotional learning, and that children are most prepared for kindergarten when they have the self-regulation and social skills to be successful in a school environment. We focus on these skills as our foundation. OCDC uses the Creative Curriculum, a research-based, widely used curriculum that provides teachers and staff with concrete ideas on how to set up developmentally appropriate environments and activities for children. Implementation of the curriculum includes:- Implementing a "project approach" where studies are driven by the topics children are interested in. - Using an environmentally based approach developed on a foundation of current research. - Integrating literacy, math, science, social studies, the arts, and technology throughout the classroom. - Using positive interactions and relationships with adults and building social-emotional competence as the foundation for learning. - Supporting learning through constructive, purposeful play.
Hours of operation: 8:00-2:00
Unique programs: "OCDC uses field trips as an extension of the classroom. Field trips are centered on the child's community, and focused on the current project or study in the classroom. Teachers use the experience to deepen and support learning by connecting the field trip with activities in the classroom. *Field trips are currently suspended due to COVID restrictions."
