Welcome to Our Young 4's Classroom
Our program welcomes teaching and learning from both the children and educators. This team approach prepares your child with the fundamentals they will need for moving on to new experiences, here at Shady Lane, or, for some, at a new school. We promote and encourage a social atmosphere of love, kindness, and empathy to our children and their families.
Shady Lane Philosophy
We teach children to respect the differences of others, and look at how we are all the same in many ways. This emphasis on diversity, as well as blending the children's ideas and interests into the curriculum, is designed to promote the development of healthy, creative, positive and nurturing individuals.
Daily Schedule
Our day balances teacher-directed activities with those chosen by students. We begin our day with free choice time where children choose from block or dramatic play, sand, art and writing activities, or puzzles and games. We enjoy morning and afternoon snack, and time in the gym or on the playground twice a day.
After reading stories, singing songs, sharing ideas, and discussing concepts together, we split into small groups. Children choose activities and how much time they spend there, with our guidance and help. This allows time for practice of different skills and concepts while working at their own pace and level of interest.
Young 4's Team
The Young Fours Team includes Co-Lead Educators Lorraine Galloway and Susan Cooper, and Educator Mary Ellen Kormos. Mary Ellen attended the University of Toronto, and has been at Shady Lane since January 2008.
About the Co-Lead Educators
Lorraine Galloway earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from Slippery Rock University. She’s enjoyed teaching and learning from young children for over 25 years. Before coming to Shady Lane, she taught at Carlow College Children's Center. In 1995, she joined Shady Lane as part of the administrative staff. Recognizing that her true love was the classroom, Lorraine became Co-Lead Educator in Shady Lane's Kindergarten in 1996. Lorraine enjoys working with children, senior citizens, and supporting community outreach programs.
Susan Cooper graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and a Master of Arts in Elementary Education. She has taught at Shady Lane School since 1996, working with different age groups. Susan and Lorraine have been co-teaching for the past nine years. Susan is an organist at her church and brings her love of music to the classroom, as well as her enthusiasm for gardening and the outdoors.
We look forward to a special time with your family.
Lorraine Galloway
Young 4's Co-Lead Educator
Susan Cooper
Young 4's Co-Lead Educator
