Kate Furbish Elementary School in Brunswick, ME | Pre-K through 2nd Grade

In the charming coastal town of Brunswick, Maine, Kate Furbish Elementary School serves as a nurturing and dynamic learning environment for the community's youngest scholars. Catering to students from Pre-Kindergarten through 2nd grade, this school is uniquely focused on the foundational years of a child's educational journey. As part of the Brunswick Public Schools district, Kate Furbish is dedicated to fostering a joy for learning, building essential academic and social skills, and creating a strong partnership with families. This guide delves into the programs, philosophy, and community that make this early childhood center an exceptional place for a child's first school experiences.

A School Named for a Maine Legend

The school's name honors Kate Furbish, a renowned 19th-century botanist who meticulously documented the flora of Maine. This namesake is deeply fitting for an elementary school, as it embodies values of curiosity, careful observation, and a deep appreciation for the natural world—values that are often integrated into the school's culture and curriculum, connecting students to Maine's rich heritage.

Specialized Focus on Early Childhood

Unlike a traditional K-5 elementary school, Kate Furbish Elementary specializes in early childhood education. This focused approach allows the entire school community—from administrators to teachers—to be experts in the developmental needs of children aged 4 to 8.

Developmentally Appropriate Practice: The curriculum and school environment are specifically designed for young learners, emphasizing hands-on exploration, play-based learning, and social-emotional development.

Smooth Transitions: The school creates a seamless pathway for students, guiding them from Pre-K through 2nd grade in a familiar and supportive setting before they transition to a school for older elementary grades (like Brunswick's Coffin School).

Early Intervention: By concentrating on these critical early years, the school can quickly identify and support students who may need extra help, setting them on a path to long-term academic success.

Academic Programs and Curriculum

The academic program at Kate Furbish is aligned with Maine state learning standards and is designed to ignite a passion for discovery.

Pre-Kindergarten Program: The Pre-K program focuses on building school readiness through a balance of structured activities and purposeful play. Children develop early literacy and math skills, fine and gross motor skills, and learn how to be part of a classroom community.

Foundational Literacy: A primary goal in grades K-2 is to create confident readers. The school uses a structured literacy approach, which includes systematic phonics instruction, to ensure students build a strong foundation for reading and writing.

Mathematics Exploration: The math curriculum encourages students to see patterns, solve problems, and understand numbers through manipulatives and real-world applications.

Inquiry-Based Learning: In science and social studies, students learn by asking questions and exploring topics that are meaningful to them, often connected to their local environment and community.

Specialty Classes: Students also participate in classes like Art, Music, and Physical Education, which are essential for fostering creativity, self-expression, and healthy living.

The School Culture and Community

The culture at Kate Furbish Elementary is warm, playful, and inclusive. The school is designed to be a safe and welcoming place where children feel comfortable taking risks and expressing themselves.

Positive School Climate: The school employs frameworks like Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) to create a respectful and predictable environment where positive behavior is taught and celebrated.

Family Partnership: The school views parents as essential partners. There is a strong Home-School connection, with regular communication, family events, and volunteer opportunities that welcome parents into the school community.

Focus on Social-Emotional Learning (SEL): A significant emphasis is placed on helping children understand and manage their emotions, develop empathy, and establish positive relationships with peers and adults.

Student Support Services

Understanding that young children have diverse needs, Kate Furbish Elementary provides a robust support system.

Early Childhood Special Education: The school offers specialized services for young children with developmental delays or disabilities, providing early intervention within an inclusive setting.

Reading Specialists and Interventionists: Specialists are available to provide targeted, small-group instruction for students who need extra support in literacy.

School Counselor: A school counselor works with individuals, small groups, and entire classes to support social-skills development and emotional well-being.

Speech and Language Services: Therapists are available to support students in developing strong communication skills.

Admissions and Enrollment

Enrollment for Kate Furbish Elementary is based on residence within the Brunswick Public Schools district.

Verify Residency: Families must provide proof of residency within the town of Brunswick.

Complete Registration: Registration forms are available on the Brunswick Public Schools website. These should be submitted along with the child's birth certificate, immunization records, and proof of residency.

Pre-K Application: The Pre-K program may have a separate application process, and placement is often based on specific eligibility criteria or a lottery system due to high demand.

Kindergarten Registration: The district holds a kindergarten registration period in the spring for children who will be five years old by October 15th of the upcoming school year.

Welcome Events: The school typically hosts orientation events for new students and families to help them become familiar with the building, teachers, and routines.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What grades does Kate Furbish Elementary serve?

Kate Furbish Elementary School serves students from Pre-Kindergarten through 2nd grade.

What is the school's address and phone number?

The school is located at 75 Jordan Ave, Brunswick, ME 04011. The main phone number is (207) 319-1970.

Is Kate Furbish a public school?

Yes, it is a public elementary school within the Brunswick Public Schools district.

Does the school offer a Pre-K program?

Yes, Kate Furbish Elementary offers a Pre-Kindergarten program.

What happens after 2nd grade?

After completing 2nd grade, students in Brunswick typically transition to Coffin School for grades 3-5.

What are the school hours?

School hours for Brunswick elementary schools are typically from around 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM. Please check the school's website for the exact schedule.

How can parents get involved?

Parents can get involved by communicating with teachers, volunteering in the classroom or library, and participating in school events and the Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO).

What is the school's approach to literacy?

The school uses a evidence-based, structured literacy approach with a strong focus on phonics to build a solid reading foundation.

Conclusion

Kate Furbish Elementary School offers a specialized, nurturing, and expert-led beginning to a child's educational path. Its focused early childhood model, combined with a strong sense of community and a commitment to the whole child, ensures that students develop not only academically but also socially and emotionally. For families in Brunswick, Kate Furbish provides the perfect foundation for a lifetime of learning.