The John Michael Kohler Arts Center offers an exciting and engaging early learning 4K through a community partnership with the Sheboygan Area School District. There is a focus on learning through visual arts, music, and movement with an emphasis throughout the year on socialization skills. Since 1967, the John Michael Kohler Arts Center (JMKAC) Preschool has offered a high quality, arts-based, state-certified preschool that provides a foundation for reading, writing, math, science, cultural awareness, critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and fundamental skills development.
Visits to the exhibitions spark discoveries, discussions, and debates about many topics the children connect to. Gathering inspiration from the art in the galleries, children engage in creative making with a plethora of materials. Journal entries focused on thinking, writing, and drawing chronicle the school year of experiences of each child. Students participate in weekly Spanish and American Sign Language lessons, as well as music (including piano lessons) and yoga instruction.
The children explore creative movement, storytelling, skits, music, and theatre games onstage in the Theatre. As an audience they attend performances, and on stage they welcome an audience for their year-end performance. They learn to appreciate our outdoor environment through multiple field trips to Maywood Environmental Park, and daily play in a safe, natural playground. Walks to the Fire Department, Coast Guard, Farmers’ Market, the riverfront and lakefront offer opportunities to explore and discover in our own community.
The team of teachers collaborate to provide important lessons about mindfulness including respect, giving, taking turns, having a voice, being aware, health, wellness, and safety as the foundation for developing the class culture where children feel safe and free to explore, learn, love, and grow. Celebrating cultural traditions, food drive, decorating bags for Meals on Wheels are a few of the valued activities provided for the children and families.
The opening of the Art Preserve of the John Michael Kohler Arts Center in 2021 provides new opportunities to occasionally hold the 4K class at the new venue filled with JMKAC’s collection of Artist-built Environments, as well as explore the Willow Creek Preserve—Glacial Lakes Conservancy adjacent to the property.
By attending 4K at the Arts Center, students have the amazing opportunity to visit the galleries, attend performances, and work with visual and performing guest artists. The 4K preschool is state licensed, and the curriculum aligns with the Wisconsin Model Early Learning Standards.
Monday - Thursday: 8:30 - 11:30 a.m. morning session, 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. afternoon session
No School on Fridays
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