Jackie Philhower,
Supervisor of Early Childhood (P-3)
732-776-2606, ext. 2955
philhowerj@asburypark.k12.nj.us
Dear Families,
Welcome to our Early Childhood Program! We are thrilled to have you as part of our vibrant community dedicated to nurturing young learners. My name is Jackie Philhower, and I have had the privilege of teaching kindergarten in the district for 17 years, with the last 7 years serving as an instructional coach. I truly believe in a quality preschool program that incorporates many styles of learning, and I am excited to bring this philosophy to our program.
At the heart of our curriculum is the belief that children learn best through hands-on experiences that engage their senses and spark their curiosity. Our nature-based approach encourages exploration and discovery, allowing children to connect with the world around them. Through outdoor play and activities, we foster a sense of wonder and appreciation for nature, helping children develop critical thinking skills and creativity.
In addition to our nature and play-based curriculum, we are excited to incorporate sign language and play-based therapy strategies into our program. These approaches will support communication, enhance social skills, and provide additional tools for self-expression for all our students. Our goal is to create an inclusive environment where every child feels valued and understood, and where families can actively participate in this enriching experience.
We recognize the importance of social-emotional learning in the early years. Our program emphasizes building positive relationships and developing emotional intelligence, which are essential for lifelong success. Through collaborative play and guided interactions, children learn to communicate, share, and resolve conflicts, laying the foundation for strong social skills.
Literacy is a key focus in our classroom, integrated seamlessly into our daily activities. We promote a love for reading and storytelling, encouraging children to express themselves and explore language in meaningful ways. Our goal is to instill a passion for learning that lasts a lifetime, equipping children with the skills they need for future academic success.
We believe that every child is unique and deserves a nurturing environment that respects their individual needs and interests. Together, we will create a supportive community where children can flourish and develop into confident, compassionate, and curious learners.
Thank you for joining us on this exciting journey. I look forward to partnering with you to inspire and cultivate the next generation of lifelong learners!
Warm regards,
Jackie Philhower
Early Childhood Supervisor
Thurgood Marshall Early Childhood Center