The Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) Programs within the Columbia Union Conference provide a faith-based, nurturing, active, and challenging environment that encourages curiosity and active learning for children from birth to entrance into formal schooling. In collaboration with the home and church, it is critical that a well-rounded ECEC program be established to meet the needs of a child’s spiritual, physical, intellectual, social, and emotional development, which will affect their lifelong love of learning.

AGE PHILOSOPHY

September 30 has been designated by the State Department of Education as the date by which a child must be five (5) years old to enter Kindergarten and six (6) years old to enter first grade and have completed a kindergarten program.
Before a child can be placed, they must first meet the age requirements both developmentally and chronologically. Spring Valley Academy uses the Gesell Developmental Observation assessment as the basis for placement recommendation. This test is administered before new students enter their next grade level.

Departments Minimum Age Requirements by State law
Early 5’s Kindergarten Those turning 5 years of age October 1 through May 31 of the school calendar year
Kindergarten Applicants must be 5 years of age by September 30 of the school calendar year
Placement Options for Kindergarten Applicants
Age eligibility and Developmental Age Met, Parent Choice Below Developmental Age Eligibility, School Placement Honored