Preparing For Kindergarten

By JAIRO VALLEJO

The Progress

The long-running Sunshine Academy preschool program is already gearing up for another great year.
The academy held its famously adorable graduation ceremony in May.

During the ceremony, each child is called up by his/her teacher and asked a very important question: “What do you want to be when you grow up?”

This year’s graduates provided the most innocent responses ranging from astronaut to ninja; from queen to President of the United States.
The children also performed songs that they learned throughout the year. Parents watched as their kids walked across the stage to accept their Sunshine Academy diplomas. It is one of the first accomplishments in their long academic careers.

The Sunshine Academy summer school is currently in its full swing. Janeece Noel, Director of the Sunshine Academy, said that the preschool is a great place for children ages 3-5 to come, learn and play.
“Our goal is not only to get children ready to attend school, but to help foster self esteem,” Noel said. “We want them to see the differences in others and love them for who they are. We help help them learn conflict resolution among many other things.”

Noel explained that each class is filled with songs, games, experiments, play and of course learning.
“We also can’t forget lots and lots of giggles and dancing!” Noel added.
“Our teachers spend lots of time working on ideas to help foster a love of learning that will last a lifetime,” Noel added. “We work hard to make it a fun and safe environment for all our students. This year we look forward to seeing our returning friends and look forward to meeting new friends!”

The Sunshine Academy is run by three outstanding teachers: Noel, Ali Hillman, and Wendy Rasmussen. All three have been working hard to prepare local preschool children to go to kindergarten.

The Sunshine academy is located at the Jimmie Hughes Campus on 150 N Yucca St. The program is administered by the Mesquite Athletics and Leisure Services Department.
“We really appreciate everything Janeece, Ali, and Wendy do for the Athletics and Leisure Services Department.” said Department Director Nick Montoya. “They work really hard to set the kids up for success. It is a great program to get your kids into a great environment for social interaction before they go to elementary school.”

There are still limited spots available for parents wanting to register their children for the Sunshine Academy. For more information, contact the Mesquite Recreation Center at 702-346-8732 or contact Janeece Noel at jnoel@mesquitenv.gov.