(Dickinson Center, Inc. employees pictured: Wenzday Koskey in the dark blue dress with upcoming kindergarten students & Deb Freeburg, in the flower dress.)

ST. MARYS, Pa — Dickinson Center, Inc., in collaboration with the Saint Marys Area School District and Johnsonburg Area School District, recently concluded its annual Kindergarten Readiness Program. During the six-week program, students built confidence, formed new friendships, and developed the skills needed for a successful transition to kindergarten.

Designed to prepare students for their first year of school, the program was offered at South Saint Marys Street Elementary School, Fox Township Elementary School, and Johnsonburg Elementary School. Students and their families were introduced to the school environment through fun, engaging activities led by Mental Health Liaisons Deb Freeburg and Wenzday Koskey, along with Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) Summer Worker Terra Hnath.

Throughout the program, students participated in hands-on activities that strengthened handwriting, fine and gross motor skills, classroom routines, and social-emotional development. Using the evidence-based The Incredible Years curriculum, students practiced important skills such as following directions, solving problems, sharing, taking turns, and expressing their emotions in positive ways.

The program concluded with graduation celebrations at each participating school, where families gathered to recognize the students’ hard work and accomplishments as they proudly received certificates marking this important milestone before beginning kindergarten this fall.

Dickinson Center, Inc., an affiliate of Journey Health System, is grateful for the continued partnership of the Saint Marys Area School District, the Johnsonburg Area School District, and the support of Cameron/Elk Behavioral & Developmental Programs in making the Kindergarten Readiness Program possible. By working together, these organizations are helping students develop the skills, confidence, and positive experiences that prepare them for a successful start to their educational journey.

For more information about Dickinson Center’s programs, please visit www.dickinsoncenter.org.