Kindergarten
Welcome to Kindergarten!
The Kindergarten team at Griswold Elementary School aligns with Griswold Public Schools’ mission, vision, and goals by creating caring, inclusive kindergarten classrooms where every child feels valued. Through social-emotional learning and personalized instruction—blending play-based, traditional, and digital activities—we nurture each student’s interests, strengths, and needs.
Our integrated, research-based curriculum builds strong thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills in English Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies, preparing students for lifelong learning and future success.
Check out our faculty directory below and reach out anytime.
Meet Our Team
Our kindergarten teachers are excited to welcome and support every student. Each classroom uses a unique symbol to help children feel confident and comfortable as they find their way. With their warmth and unique personalities, our teachers create a nurturing, welcoming environment. We look forward to a fantastic year of learning and growth together!
Cheryl Chapados
Teacher, Special Education
Stephanie Chastang
Teacher, Kindergarten
Class symbol: Owl 🦉
Hello! I’m Mrs. Chastang and the 2025-2026 school year is my 15th year at GES. I look forward to another wonderful year in Kindergarten. I love creating a joyful, engaging classroom where young learners can grow and explore. When I’m not in the classroom, I love making memories with my family, traveling to exciting places, and getting lost in a good book.
Amy Demicco
Teacher, Kindergarten
Class symbol: Sun ☀️
Hi! I’m Ms. Demicco, and I have the joy and privilege of teaching kindergarten. I’ve always believed that the early years are the foundation for lifelong learning, and with over 17 years of experience in the classroom I strive to create an environment that fosters curiosity, kindness, and a love of learning where each child feels valued, encouraged, and excited to explore the world around them. Outside of the classroom I enjoy spending time with my kids, relaxing on the beach, playing board games, and dreaming of a Disney vacation!
Kylie Desjardins
Teacher, Kindergarten
Class symbol: Koala 🐨
Hello! Welcome to Kindergarten! I grew up in Australia, moved here at 13, and have been teaching for 19 years—18 of them at Griswold Elementary. When I’m not in the classroom, I’m a wildlife rehabilitator who loves caring for animals from fawns to raccoons. Kindergarten is such a special time to build friendships, grow in independence, and discover new skills, and as our class symbol, the Koala will remind us to climb to new heights together this year!
Natalie Kramarewicz
Teacher, Kindergarten
Class symbol: Butterfly 🦋
Hello! I am Mrs. Kramarewicz and this will be my 20th year teaching here at GES! I still enjoy teaching tiny humans with a nurturing approach and hands-on experiences! When I am not teaching, I love spending time with my family and baking.
Jenna Motta
Teacher, Kindergarten, Instructional Leader
Class symbol: Pineapple🍍
Hello! I’m Mrs. Motta, and I’ve been teaching for over 17 years, with 12 of those years at GES. While I enjoy teaching all subjects, reading is my favorite in Kindergarten. Outside the classroom, I love reading, singing, and acting. If I could travel anywhere, I’d choose a beachside spot with a pool—perfect for relaxing with a good book.
Michelle Staley
Teacher, Kindergarten
Class symbol: Pencil ✏️
Hello! I’m Mrs. Staley. I'm looking forward to another great year at GES! Over the years, I’ve had the joy of teaching kindergarten, 1st, 2nd, and 4th grade—and I’ve loved every minute of it! When I’m not in the classroom, you’ll usually find me with a good book in one hand and an iced coffee in the other. I also enjoy traveling and spending time with my family. It’s always a joy to learn and grow alongside my students, and I can’t wait to see what this year brings!
What Are Students Learning?
Kindergarteners build strong foundational skills across all subject areas, developing the communication, curiosity, confidence, and understanding they’ll need for future academic success and lifelong learning.
🧠 English Language Arts
In ELA, we focus on building reading and language foundations including:
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Letter and sound recognition
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Understanding and discussing stories
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Expressing ideas through speaking and writing
Science of Reading Information Sheet (PDF)
➗ Mathematics
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Counting, number recognition, and comparing amounts
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Introduction to addition and subtraction
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Shapes, measurement, and sorting objects
🌿 Science
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Observing patterns in nature
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Exploring how things move
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Understanding the needs of people, plants, and animals
🌍 Social Studies
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Rules and responsibilities
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Maps and places
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Family history
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Jobs in the community
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Exploring similarities and differences among people
🎨 Exploratory Classes
Students attend weekly exploratory classes including music, art, technology, physical education, and health. They also participate in weekly book exchanges at the school library media center. These experiences enrich their learning and make school more meaningful and engaging.
A Day in Kindergarten*
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Student Arrival & Morning Work
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Morning Meeting with Social-Emotional Learning Focus
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ELA Block #1 – Phonics & Phonemic Awareness
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Mathematics – Whole Group, Small Group, and Stations
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Snack
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Exploratory Class Rotation
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ELA Block #2 – Reading, Writing, Literacy Stations
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Lunch
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Recess
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Whole Group Read Aloud (Science/Social Studies Focus)
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Play-Based Learning – Play Plan & Mature Play Block
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Closing Circle & Dismissal
*Schedule may be adjusted based on GES building schedule.
Special Events
Some kindergarten events include Orientation with a Meet and Greet, in-school assemblies and town meetings, spirit days, guest readers and visitors, nature trail walks, gingerbread tree day, Global Day of Play, field trips, and a school-wide field day. Families are invited to attend, chaperone, or volunteer for many of these events!
Kindergarten Family Resources
CSDE Kindergarten Information Booklet
Student Age Requirement for Kindergarten Webpage
What Do Students Need for Kindergarten?
- Full-size backpack
- Slip-on or velcro sneakers
- Refillable water bottle
- A daily snack that a child can open independently
- Lunch (brought from home or choose from daily school options: hot lunch, PB&J, salad, or turkey/ham sandwich; lunch count is taken daily)
- Extra set of clothing
- Headphones labeled with the child’s name
- Classroom supply list items (items are suggested, not required)