Exploration Communication Collaboration Building essential skills and habits at the new Early Childhood Center
We sat down recently to talk with Michelle Hughes, director of the Lower School, about her leadership of and vision for our new Early Childhood Center and the restarting of our preschool program. She shared her insights about the importance of laying a strong foundation for young students that will lead them to long-term success. The past 18 months have been difficult for young children. “The work of early childhood is learning how to be with, learn with, and play with others in the world. Children’s brains are programmed for this important work,” Michelle said. “However, in a state of isolation from each other, as many children were because of virtual classrooms, this important work can’t be done, and this can affect their social and cognitive development, as well as their state of mind. Our students were so fortunate to have been in person at the Academies last year!” Michelle shared that she feels very fortunate to be working with a highly talented group of teachers in the Lower School who help shape the foundation of The Albany Academies education. “Collaborating with and supporting these teachers in the goals they have, the inspirations they want to follow, and the work they do with our kids is extremely rewarding.” With her team, Michelle works to create an engaging environment for children, especially at the early childhood level. “We start with tasks that are age appropriate and meaningful, and lessons that build on each other in a logical way. The more the students are doing, enacting, communicating, and creating within those tasks, the more engaged they will be.” Michelle brings a whole-child teaching philosophy to her work at the Academies, looking at each child to learn what their strengths and interests are and where they are challenged, and then developing ways for them to learn effectively. The role of the teacher is to know the students in front of them, to check frequently for understanding, and then to determine what methods or modes will help a student who is not understanding, she said. Do they need a model? Do they need 18
The Albany Academies magazine
fall 2021
