IJ & Jeanné Wagner Jewish Community Center | IJ & Jeanné Wagner Jewish Community Center

About Our Program

Our Philosophy

We believe children learn by doing. Academic and emotional development is enhanced when children make their own discoveries. Our teachers help children become independent, self-confident and inquisitive learners, while aiding in their social-emotional, cognitive, language and physical development.

We maintain a low child-to-teacher ratio with talented, credentialed instructors who foster self-confidence, independence and self-discipline.

Our programs are designed to help each child:

Develop a positive self-concept and confidence
Inspire curiosity and the ability to inquire and explore
Strengthen verbal expression
Increase self-discipline and independence
Enjoy creative pursuits
Develop trust in others
Learn lifelong cognitive, physical and language skills
Identify positively with Jewish traditions

FAQs

I'm interested in the JCC, but I'm not Jewish

There is no requirement that families, students or even teachers be Jewish. In fact, the majority of families come from other religious backgrounds. Everyone is welcome.

Is religion taught in the classroom?

Jewish culture and tradition are important aspects of all our programs. We celebrate all Jewish holidays in our classrooms. Our celebrations and observances include stories, music, art and cooking. We celebrate Shabbat each Friday. In a diverse world often filled with religious strife, the JCC offers a place where Jewish tradition can be taught and celebrated in a healthy, inclusive and non-proselytizing manner.

Most importantly, our values-based curriculum teaches children how to interact in respectful ways with peers, nature and their community. Our curriculum features An Ethical StartTM, a program which explores common human values through a Jewish lens.

How do you handle Christian holidays?

Although we do not celebrate Christian holidays in our classrooms with activities or lesson plans, we respect everyone's holidays and allow children to share the excitement and dialogue surrounding each holiday celebrated in their homes.

Family Participation

At the JCC we value parent and teacher partnerships. We ask our parents to volunteer a minimum of 10 hours each school year in their child's classroom. Volunteer opportunities include: helping in the classroom, assisting with a fundraiser, planning family events, supervising on field trips or serving on committees.

What are the Teacher:Student ratios?

Toddlers (age 2 before Sept. 1)
Class sizes: 12 students
Teachers: 2
Ratio: 6:1

Preschool (3 to 5-Year-Olds)
Class sizes: 16-18 students
Teachers: 2
Ratio: 8-9:1

Kindergarten (age 5 by Sept. 1)
Class size: Maximum of 20 students
Teachers: 2 (Lead and assistant)
Ratio: Maximum of 10:1

Do I need to be a JCC member to enroll?

We require a JCC Family Membership for all families enrolled in the Early Childhood Center. Aside from the preschool, the JCC offers a first-class fitness facility that includes two swimming pools, summer camps, AfterSchool and community programs—all of which will be available to you as a member. Please stop by the Membership Office for price information and to fill out your membership application.

Thank you very much for your interest in the ECC and your support of the I.J. and Jeanné Wagner Jewish Community Center.

Warm Regards,

Michelle Oelsner
Director of Membership Services
801.581.0098, ext 115 // This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Registration Process

For the 2013 - 2014 school year, registration for JCC members is February 21 - 22. Open registration for non-members begins March 14.

Priority registration for current ECC members is February 13 - 15, 2013.

For a comprehensive printer-friendly version of everything you need to know please see our 2013-2014 Parent Packet.

Accreditation

The JCC's Early Childhood Center is proud to be a part of a select group of preschools and kindergartens with accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Childrent (NAEYC). Like us, the organization ™is dedicated to improving the well-being of all young children, with particular focus on the quality of educational and developmental services. ... NAEYC is committed to becoming an increasingly high performing and inclusive organization.

Click here for more information about the NAEYC