Trail Blazers Preschool
Philosophy
Our Trail Blazers program is a developmentally appropriate program designed to help children grow and learn in a stimulating and nurturing environment. We look at the ‘whole child’ including intellectual, social, emotional, physical and creative growth. Children develop differently in each area so the curriculum is carefully planned to include activities that help each child learn and grow in all areas. Children will be introduced to the basic academic and social skills of preschool and will be encouraged to develop problem solving skills, self-confidence and creativity. Activities will include math, science, language skills, art, motor movement, music and dramatic play. All areas of each child’s growth are important and we provide opportunities for intellectual, social, physical and creative growth. Activities are presented in individual and group, structured and unstructured settings and Jolly Phonics curriculum is used for Kindergarten readiness. Our goal is for each child to develop a love of learning, tools to continue to learn, and a positive image of himself or herself.
Fall 2018-2019 School Year
Preschool Staff Bios
Monika Janikowski
With a teaching career spanning 10 years, the River Trails Park District has been proud to have Monika Janikowski as part of the Trail Blazers staff for three of those years. Her passion for teaching began at the University of Warsaw in Poland, and concluded at Harper College where she earned her certification in Early Childhood Education. Monika’s passion for teaching is displayed through her focus on helping children discover the joy of learning and becoming life-long learners. Monika reinforces the philosophy and values of the Trail Blazers preschool program by developing self-confidence in students through a whole-child educational approach.
Tina Kozil
Tina received her bachelor’s degree in Child Development and Family Relations with an emphasis on Child Development, from Northern Illinois University. After earning her degree she worked for Lutheran General Children’s Day Care for 10 years. After taking some time to start her family, she joined the River Trails Park District, and has been teaching preschool and various enrichment classes since 2005. In 2013, Tina won a Mount Prospect Shining Star award, and has continually displayed a dedication to enriching the lives of our community.
Claudia Heidorn
Claudia has been a preschool teacher with the River Trails Park District since 2008. She attended the University of Illinois at Chicago, and received her degree in Physical Therapy and worked for 6 years in hospital based program settings. Since joining River Trails, Claudia has been instrumental in developing our Trail Blazers preschool program and constantly strives to provide the foundation to allow for children’s future success.