February Recap

Toddler Classrooms

In the toddler classrooms, Montessori learning was vibrant and engaging as children explored various activities designed to enhance their developmental skills. They worked with different-sized blocks, which not only fostered their fine motor skills but also encouraged spatial awareness as they observed where the blocks would fit. Stamping activities provided a fun way for toddlers to express themselves artistically while improving their hand-eye coordination. Additionally, the exposure to the guitar captivated the children's interest in music, allowing them to explore rhythm and sound. Overall, these activities supported a holistic learning environment where toddlers could learn through hands-on experiences.

Primary Classrooms

In a Montessori primary classroom, the environment is thoughtfully designed to foster independent exploration and hands-on learning. Central to this setup are various learning materials that engage children in different subjects. 

One such material is the multiplication bead board, which allows children to visually and physically manipulate beads to understand the concept of multiplication. This hands-on approach promotes a concrete understanding of mathematical operations, making abstract concepts more accessible.

Another engaging activity involves slicing an apple. This practical life skill not only teaches children how to handle tools safely but also encourages them to care for their environment and refine their fine motor skills. It integrates lessons about healthy eating and the importance of nutrition in a fun and interactive way.

Additionally, working with sandpaper letters and cards introduces children to the foundational aspects of literacy. As they trace the textured letters with their fingers, they engage their senses while learning the shapes and sounds of the alphabet. This tactile experience enhances their understanding of language and prepares them for reading and writing.

Overall, the Montessori environment in a primary classroom supports a rich and interactive learning experience, where children are encouraged to explore, discover, and develop essential skills at their own pace.

Afternoon Program

In the third year of their Montessori journey, kindergarten students are actively engaging in the vital skill of writing their names. This practice is not only a significant milestone in their literacy development but also a testament to the foundational skills they have cultivated through previous experiences with practical life materials. These activities have been instrumental in enhancing their fine motor skills, enabling them to grasp a pencil with confidence and control. 

The Montessori method prioritizes hands-on learning, allowing children to explore their environment and refine their motor abilities in meaningful ways. For instance, activities such as pouring, sorting, and using tools not only develop coordination but also lay the groundwork for writing. As children engage with these materials, they strengthen the muscles in their hands, which are essential for holding a writing instrument properly.

As they practice writing from left to right, they are not just learning to form letters; they are reinforcing their understanding of directionality and developing a sense of ownership over their identity. Writing their names serves as a personal connection to their individuality, fostering self-esteem and confidence. Additionally, this skill introduces them to the concept of literacy as a form of communication, encouraging them to express themselves and share their thoughts and experiences with others.

Furthermore, the Montessori environment encourages collaboration and peer learning. Children often observe and support one another in their writing endeavors, promoting a sense of community and shared growth. This social aspect enriches their learning experience, as they learn to celebrate each other’s progress and achievements.

This holistic approach ensures that each child is well-prepared for this exciting phase of learning. The integration of sensory experiences, cognitive challenges, and emotional support cultivates a well-rounded educational journey, setting the stage for future academic success and a lifelong love of learning.

February Birthdays

February Birthdays

Celebrating Black History Month

During Black History Month, the toddler Mercury classroom introduced the life and achievements of Jackie Robinson through engaging storytelling and interactive activities that highlighted his impact on baseball and civil rights. Meanwhile, the toddler Jupiter classroom focused on Garrett Morgan, using hands-on demonstrations to showcase his inventions, particularly the traffic signal, which sparked discussions about innovation and safety. In the primary Earth classroom, students learned about Alma Woodsey, exploring her contributions to education and social justice through creative projects that encouraged reflection on her legacy. Each classroom created a vibrant and educational atmosphere, celebrating the significant contributions of these influential figures.

Staff Development Day

During our staff development day, we kicked off the event with a fun icebreaker where each participant wrote down a unique fact about themselves. We then took turns guessing which fact belonged to whom, fostering a sense of camaraderie and connection among the team. Following the icebreaker, we received essential CPR training, equipping us with vital skills for emergency situations. The day continued with an insightful workshop led by Dr. Brett, focusing on the importance of self-care for teachers. This session emphasized the significance of maintaining our well-being to better support our students, making it a valuable experience for everyone involved.

Valentine's Day Celebration

The school celebrated Valentine's Day with an explosion of joy and excitement, transforming each classroom into a festive party zone! Students exchanged delicious treats and filled the air with laughter, creating a vibrant atmosphere of love. The children eagerly crafted thoughtful gifts for their parents, pouring their creativity and affection into every handmade creation. This delightful celebration not only strengthened the sense of community among students and teachers but also provided a wonderful opportunity for the kids to express their feelings and share their joy in a truly meaningful way. It was a day filled with smiles, creativity, and the warm spirit of togetherness!

March Events

March is here, and with it comes a whirlwind of excitement at our school! This month is packed with events that promise to inspire creativity, celebrate our little ones, and embrace the spirit of St. Patrick's Day. 

First up, get ready to dive into the enchanting world of reading at the Scholastic Book Fair, where students can explore new adventures and discover their next favorite book. 

Following that, it’s time for our adorable Toddler and Primary Picture Day, capturing the smiles and laughter of our youngest stars in timeless snapshots. 

And who could forget St. Patrick's Day? We’ll be celebrating with festive activities that bring a splash of green and a sprinkle of magic to our school community. 

So, mark your calendars and get ready for a month filled with fun, learning, and unforgettable memories!

School Events & Closures

Friendly Reminders

Drop-offs

When picking up and or dropping your child off, please make sure that there are no children under 6 years of age alone in your vehicle. Kaitlyn’s Law, Senate Bill 255, prohibits anyone from doing so.

If you have an infant or young child that is sleeping in their carseat, please contact the school and we will do our very best to bring your other child out to you in a timely manner.

Please make sure this information is relayed to other authorized pick-up/drop-off people.

4 Day Schedule Policies



For students scheduled with a 4-day program, maintaining a consistent schedule is essential according to our policy, as it fosters a stable routine for children. In instances where the school is closed, a non-student day and or if a student is out sick, make-up days are not allowed. For example, if a student follows a Monday-Thursday schedule and the school is closed on Monday, they cannot compensate by attending on Friday.

In the case of a special event falling on a day that is not included in a student's 4-day schedule, they are welcome to participate. They can either switch one of their scheduled days to attend the event or opt to pay a drop-in rate for all five days. For example, if a student has a Tuesday-Friday schedule and the St. Patrick's Day lunch celebration occurs on Monday, they may attend from Monday to Thursday or choose the drop-in rate for Monday. This change in schedule must be notified to the office on the Friday, one week prior.

Gaowa Family - Community Board

Snack Menu

Family Fun Events