When DD was in kindergarten at an absolutely awful inter district magnet she had the kindergarten teacher from hell. Absolutely no explanation for why she ever chose teaching as a profession or who in their right minds would have put her in a kindergarten classroom. She would have LOVED the program the OP describes. In fact it's actually pretty close to what she tried to do. No toys, no play, nothing creative or imaginative allowed. It was up to the kids to adapt to her teaching style - no way would she consider adapting to individual needs or learning styles. Obvious signs of learning disabilities or other neurological issues? P-shaw! These children are just lazy and need additional doses of discipline. Recess is a waste of time! Developmentally appropriate? Don't make me laugh! Silence, marching in straight lines, belittling criticism and punishment - that's what these spoiled brats need if we are going to meet the "rigorous academic standards of kindergarten today"!
Yeah it turned out really well for my DD. 3 years later she still suffers from PTSD type reactions to anything that reminds her of that teacher or that experience. This should prove fun for years to come...
{shiver}
