Early Childhood Department

The Folsom School District Early Childhood Department is committed to providing a nurturing, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate educational experience for our youngest learners from Preschool through Grade 3. Our goal is to create a strong foundation for academic achievement, social-emotional growth, and lifelong learning by fostering curiosity, independence, and confidence in every child.

Through high-quality instruction aligned with the New Jersey Student Learning Standards, students engage in meaningful, hands-on learning experiences that promote literacy, mathematics, science, social studies, and social-emotional development. Our educators work collaboratively to meet the needs of each child while cultivating a safe, welcoming, and engaging learning environment.

Recognizing that successful transitions are essential to student success, the Early Childhood Department provides comprehensive transition planning to support children and families as they move from home to preschool, preschool to kindergarten, and through the primary grades. Transition activities include orientation programs, classroom visits, family information sessions, collaboration among educators, and individualized planning when needed to ensure every child feels prepared and supported.

We believe that strong partnerships between school and home are the cornerstone of student success. Throughout the school year, families are invited to participate in a variety of parent engagement opportunities, including literacy and math nights, family workshops, open houses, conferences, ECAC (Early Childhood Advisory Council) meetings, preschool celebrations, and community events. These experiences strengthen relationships between families and educators while providing practical strategies to support learning at home.

The Early Childhood Department is dedicated to building positive, trusting relationships with students, families, staff, and community partners. We value open communication, collaboration, and shared decision-making to ensure every child receives the support necessary to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

To further support families, the department connects parents with valuable school and community resources, including developmental screenings, special education and intervention services, health and wellness supports, early literacy resources, family assistance programs, and information about community organizations. By partnering with families and the community, we strive to ensure every child has access to the tools and opportunities needed for a successful start in school and beyond.

At Folsom School District, our Early Childhood Department is committed to inspiring a love of learning while empowering every child and family to grow, connect, and succeed together.

Michele Hetzel

Director of Curriculum & Instruction and Special Services