A new year at Michael Anderson Elementary School Published Aug. 27, 2013 By Senior Airman Samantha Krolikowski 92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE Wash. -- On Sept. 4th Michael Anderson Elementary School students will notice changes implemented for the new school year, including full-day kindergarten classes and after school tutoring. Traditionally, kindergarten classes have only been a half day, but this year the school will be transitioning to full-day classes. Michael Anderson Elementary is expecting 90 to 110 kindergarten students this year that will be broken up into four to five different classes and experience the new schedule. "Research shows kids who start kindergarten and have a full day academically are more likely to succeed throughout their whole education," said Darlene Starr, Michael Anderson Elementary School principal. The full school day will offer kindergarteners the opportunity to explore, question and reflect on their learning, said Amanda Larson, Michael Anderson Elementary kindergarten teacher. It will also provide teachers more time to challenge students, provide additional instruction when needed and give students more opportunities in their education. "A full day of kindergarten is a great opportunity for students to truly excel," said Larson. "As a teacher, I will be able to give my students the opportunity and time they need to grasp foundational skills that are taught in kindergarten." School hours will be from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for all grades with the exception of preschool classes, which will remain on a half-day schedule. The school will also be integrating more advanced science curriculum for kindergarten through fifth grades as a result of the Science Technology Engineering Math grant they received. In addition, the school will offer afterschool help for those who need tutoring, as well as afterschool sports. "There is an afterschool and Saturday STEM program," said Starr. "It will offer extra help to students who are having trouble, and even to those students who wish to go a little further in their studies." Several afterschool programs will be offered this year, including sports students can participate in like basketball and volleyball. An open house will be held for parents to attend on Sept. 3 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. "Parents can look forward to us continuing to provide a real quality education," said Starr. "We will help their kids continue and grow." For more information on Michael Anderson Elementary School, call 509-565-3600.