In this episode of Beyond the Blog, host Leah Verier-Dunn talks with Dr. Patti Folino, Principal of Tuttle Elementary School in Sarasota County, to explore what kindergarten readiness really means. With 38 years in education, Dr. Folino brings deep experience and insight into preparing young learners for success.

Together, they discuss how kindergarten readiness goes beyond letters and numbers to include independence, social-emotional development, problem-solving skills, and early language exposure. The conversation also highlights the role of family engagement, early learning programs, and community partnerships in supporting children before they ever step into a classroom.

Listeners will hear about:

• Why independence and self-help skills matter as much as academics
• How everyday routines can build confidence and resilience
• The importance of early intervention and community resources

This conversation highlights how kindergarten readiness is truly a shared responsibility—one that brings together families, educators, and communities to help children thrive from the very start.

Timestamps

• 00:32 - Intro
• 01:07 - Patti talks about her history as a principal and educator in Sarasota, FL.
• 01:54 - Patti gives an overview of what it means for a child to be ready for Kindergarten.
• 02:57 - Patti walks through a typical day at Tuttle Elementary.
• 04:44 - Patti talks about Social Emotional readiness for Kindergarten.
• 07:28 - Patti explains Cognitive Readiness.
• 10:20 - Patti breaks down the self-help skills necessary to be Kindergarten Ready.
• 11:47 - Patti shares how families might approach these ideas of preparedness.
• 13:00 - Patti talks about how Tuttle Elementary approaches Kindergarten Readiness as a school.
• 15:05 - Leah and Patti discuss the Kindergarten Readiness Bags supported by The Patterson Foundation
• 18:25 - Patti shares some of the challenges families face at Title 1 Schools.
• 20:42 - Patti talks about the creative solutions families and educators come up with to overcome their challenges.
• 23:44 - Patti explains the importance of raising our children to be problem-solvers.
• 27:00 - Big Picture Small Steps
• 27:17 - Patti talks about her long-term goals for Kindergarten Readiness
• 30:04 - Patti shares some small steps families can take today to help their child be Kindergarten Ready.

Links to Learn More 

• Early Learning Coalition of Sarasota
• FL Department of Education School Readiness Program
• Forty Carrots (PIP) Partners in Play-
• Community Foundation of Sarasota
• Suncoast Campaign for Grade Level Reading (SCGLR)

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