COVID Means Center-Based Classes Much Smaller Normally, an LCCAA Head Start classroom is filled with 20 children, but this year we are starting off with just eight. Due to added needs, protocols and stressors during this pandemic, we feel secure in our decision to start the year with a smaller class size. Unfortunately, this also means that we may not be able to accommodate every family that wants their child in a physical, not virtual, classroom this fall. Never fear, the smaller class size is temporary. But during this time, let’s look for the silver lining in this situation. Despite the smaller class size, the staffing remains the same. Though the teachers will be balancing inclass students with online learners, during their six hours in the classroom they will be dedicating themselves to only those eight little learners. This is particularly important when looking at the social-emotional concerns brought forth by this pandemic. Children have had to experience social distancing and the wearing of masks. They may be seeing their own parents navigating job
loss, potential loss of home, or food insecurities. They may have had sick relatives or developed a fear of getting sick. All of this, and more, will result in our teachers working with more social-emotional concerns. Working with a smaller class will ensure teachers have the time to address the needs of each child. Additionally, small group time will be even smaller, with more opportunity for one-on-one attention while learning new skills. Meal times will have one teacher at a table with no more than four students. This will result in longer and deeper conversations and more
time to encourage the pickiest of eaters. During free choice time, your child will have the benefit of longer play sessions with his or her teacher, which is when most of the learning happens in preschool. Due to smaller class sizes, teachers have the opportunity to get to know every child in a more profound way than ever before. Of course, we want to give every child the opportunity to attend Head Start, and we look forward to adding more students as soon as possible. Until then, we will make the most of this time and prepare our little groups to welcome and mentor new friends as restrictions change.
New Cleaning and Sanitizing Processes LCCAA’s Head Start classrooms and centers will be sanitized at least twice everyday this fall. Service Safety Specialist Tracy Hough (pictured right) has brought in new sanitizing equipment that can quickly kill germs and viruses on the variety of surfaces found in LCCAA offices and classrooms. Additionally, some of LCCAA’s Head Start Centers are equipped with Zono cabinets. The cabinets can hold a large quantity of classroom materials ranging from wooden puzzles to stuffed animals.
The cabinets use ozone, made from pure oxygen, to disinfect and sanitize naturally. No chemicals are used in the cabinets. The sprayers use a mild, environmentally friendly solution delivered electrostatically. Spraying eliminates the possibility of cross-contamination that can occur when using wipes or towels. Common areas will also be regularly sanitized and schedules created so groups do not share spaces at the same time. We will do our best to encouarge social distancing among the children and keep everyone safe and healthy.
