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October Newsletter

Mary Surivong • October 2, 2024

September Recap

What a splendid start to the academic year!


It has been truly amazing to observe how our young scholars effortlessly adapt to the rhythms of our Montessori schedule and routines. A great energy permeates the classrooms as the children engage with the captivating Montessori materials.


Let us explore the remarkable experiences they have recently encountered!

Toddler Classrooms

In the Montessori philosophy, activities such as lacing, color sorting, and knobbed cylinders offer numerous developmental benefits for toddlers.


Lacing activities, for instance, enhance fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination as children manipulate the laces through holes. This task also promotes concentration and patience, which are integral parts of cognitive development.


Color sorting helps toddlers with visual discrimination and categorization, laying the foundation for mathematical concepts such as grouping and pattern recognition.


Working with knobbed cylinders helps toddler-aged children develop fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and an understanding of size and order through hands-on exploration.


Collectively, these activities foster independence, confidence, and a love for learning, which are core tenets of the Montessori approach.

Primary Classrooms

The Montessori philosophy emphasizes activities that promote holistic development in primary-aged children, such as the following:


  • Hundred Board: Teaches numbers and counting, enhancing fine motor skills, cognitive abilities, and independence through hands-on exploration.
  • Tracing Letters: Builds literacy skills, improves fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination, and fosters focus and concentration.
  • Cleaning Plants: Introduces environmental care, develops responsibility, and enhances observation skills while engaging fine motor skills.
  • Painting with Watercolors: Encourages creativity and self-expression, improves fine motor control, and promotes mindfulness.


Together, these activities nurture essential skills and align with Montessori principles of independence, creativity, and a love for learning.

Kindergarten Program

The Montessori philosophy fosters independence and self-directed learning in kindergarten-aged children, allowing them to explore their interests and develop critical thinking skills more deeply than in earlier ages. This approach encourages collaboration and social interaction, helping them transition from the more guided experiences of toddlerhood to a more autonomous and engaging educational environment.


  • Apple Taste Testing:
  • Encourages sensory exploration and awareness of different flavors.
  • Fosters decision-making skills as children express preferences.
  • 3-Step Art Project:
  • Develops fine motor skills with varied materials and techniques.
  • Encourages problem-solving as children plan and execute their projects.
  • Addition Tables:
  • Builds foundational math skills through hands-on learning.
  • Encourages independence as children work at their own pace.
  • Develops critical thinking and pattern recognition.
  • Crafting Flowers:
  • Encourages creativity and self-expression in design choices.
  • Provides opportunities for collaborative work and sharing with peers.



Combined, these activities cultivate vital skills and resonate with Montessori values of independence, creativity, and a passion for learning.


September Birthdays

Back to School Night

Back to School Night provided an informative overview of the school's goals and new policies, setting a positive tone for the academic year. Ms. Emma shared insights into the Montessori philosophy, emphasizing its child-centered approach and the importance of fostering independence and critical thinking in students. Following her presentation, Dr. Brett, a clinical psychologist, addressed the audience about the significance of launching parent education nights. He discussed strategies for understanding and managing children's behaviors, equipping parents with the tools they need to support their children's development effectively. Overall, the event fostered a collaborative spirit among educators and parents, reinforcing the shared commitment to student success.


October Events

The autumn season has arrived, bringing with it a cascade of orange and yellow leaves along with a refreshing breeze 🍂


At Gaowa Montessori School, we have an exciting lineup of spooktacular events planned for this month.


Kicking off with our fall picture days, our Gaowa children will don their uniforms and flash their brightest smiles. This will be followed by a Parent/Teacher Conference day, Breast Cancer Awareness spirit day, and culminating in our eagerly anticipated Halloween Event!


For more details, please check out the events listed below. 🎃

School Events & Closures

Oct. 10th: Toddler & Sibling Picture Day & Oct. 11th: Primary Picture Day

Thursday, October 10th will be dedicated to our adorable toddlers and their siblings for picture day, while Friday, October 11th will be for the primary children. Please make sure your child is dressed from head to toe in our uniform. As a friendly reminder, the following is what makes up our uniform:


  • Light blue polo/dress with our Gaowa logo 
  • Navy blue cardigan (optional)
  • Khaki or dark bottoms
  • Closed-toe shoes

Breast Cancer Awareness

To celebrate all of the breast cancer survivors and commemorate those who put up a fierce battle, Gaowa Montessori School will be showing their spirit for this month by dressing up in pink.

Parent/Teacher Conferences

We are pleased to inform you that Friday, October 25th, will be designated as a Parent/Teacher Conference Day, and it will be a non-student day. This is a valuable opportunity for teachers to discuss your child's adjustment and progress since the start of the academic year. We encourage all parents to attend and engage in meaningful conversations with our educators. If needed, we can provide childcare during the time of your conference.


Please mark your calendars and stay tuned for more details regarding a sign-up for a conference. We look forward to seeing you there!

Halloween Event

We are ecstatic to announce our long awaited 4th Annual Halloween Event!


The classrooms will be putting on a special performance for our wonderful parents and then our parents will be given the opportunity to participate in our spooktacular trunk or treat activity. 


A separate newsletter will contain more information regarding the schedule for this event. Please keep an eye out for it! 

Friendly Reminders & Notices

8:30AM Class Starts!

As we embrace the Montessori philosophy of independence and responsibility, we want to remind everyone about the importance of arriving at school on time. Classes start promptly at 8:30 AM, and being punctual helps foster a sense of routine and respect for our shared learning environment. This allows them to settle in, connect with their peers, and fully immerse themselves in their learning experiences.


We appreciate your cooperation in ensuring that your child arrives on time, ready to engage in their day. 

Signing In & Out

We want to remind all parents and guardians about the importance of signing in and out your child every time they arrive and get picked up from school. This process is crucial for the safety and accountability of all students.


Please note that failure to sign in or out will result in a $2 fee. Additionally, if there are three consecutive missed sign-ins/outs, a $5 fee will be applied. 


You can conveniently sign in and out using the ProCare app or on the sign-in sheet available at the front.


Thank you for your cooperation in keeping our school safe and organized!


Gaowa Family - Community Board

Home for Sale/Rent

Address: 1646 Murano Pl, Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Overview: Discover your dream home in the heart of Costa Mesa! This stunning residence features 4 spacious bedrooms and 3.5 luxurious bathrooms, making it the perfect haven for families or those who love to entertain. With its modern design and prime location, this property offers both comfort and convenience.


Key Features:

  • Spacious Living Areas: Enjoy an open-concept layout that seamlessly connects the living, dining, and kitchen spaces.
  • Gourmet Kitchen: Equipped with stainless steel appliances, ample counter space, and a large island perfect for meal prep and casual dining.
  • Master Suite: A private retreat featuring an en-suite bathroom with dual sinks, a soaking tub, and a walk-in shower.
  • Outdoor Space: A beautifully landscaped yard ideal for hosting gatherings or relaxing in the sun.
  • Location: Situated in a tranquil neighborhood, 3 minute walk to GAOWA (and close to other schools), parks, shopping, and dining options.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to own or rent a beautiful home in one of California’s vibrant communities.


Please contact Gary at this number if you’re interested: (714) 234-5678

Design and Permitting Process for Homeowners

The talented Angela runs her own residential architecture practice called SoCal house 2 Home where she focuses on helping homeowners through the design and permitting process. Please check out her website for more information!


The picture above is a before and after transformation of her local Costa Mesa project. It was a big job, but still, no project is too small! Angela helps with everything from bathroom remodels up to custom new build homes. Initial design consultation is always free!


Contact Information:


Angela VanDeVelde Salley, Architect 


(949) 872-1179

Innovative Hair Tools

ENZO Milano is a family owned hair tool company offering custom curling iron kits, flat irons, and blowdryers. 


Their newest line is available on their website and if you use Gaowa100, you will be able to take off $100 for any first time purchases!


Any questions can be sent to shea@enzomilano.com

Dr. Brett

Dr. Brett Patterson is a Clinical Psychologist with more than 25 years of experience working with adults, families, and children. In addition to seeing clients through his Orange County based private practice (Dr.Brett.Net), he is also the founder of the Behavior Compass Academy, an online behavior support resource helping frustrated parents understand and manage challenging behaviors.


For those interested in his services, here is his contact information:


Brett L. Patterson, Ph.D.

1000 Quail Street

Suite #175

Newport Beach, CA 92660


Phone: (949) 945-7356

Email: drbrettlpatterson@gmail.com


Family Fun Events

OC Japan Fair

Date & Time: October 18-20 | Various Times


Location: OC Fair & Event Center | 88 Fair Drive Costa Mesa, CA 92626


Price: General Admission: $10 | At the Door: $12 | Children under 6 & 65+ years: Free


Information: OC JAPAN FAIR is back in October 18-20! OC Japan Fair is the largest and the most authentic Japanese cultural festival in Southern California, with upgrading to more than 220 booths! We offer many opportunities to experience and learn about Japanese entertainment, tradition, culture, pop culture, and food.

Halloween Extravaganza

Date & Time: October  26 | 9AM-3PM


Location: UFC GYM Costa Mesa | 2860 Harbor Boulevard Costa Mesa, CA 92626


Price: Free


Information: Welcome to the UFC Costa Mesa gym Halloween Free Trick or Treat Vendor market! Join us at UFC GYM Costa Mesa for a spooktacular event filled with treats, vendors, and Halloween fun. Dress up in your favorite costume and enjoy a day of trick-or-treating with vendors, while browsing through various vendors offering unique products. Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to celebrate Halloween with the UFC community. See you there!

Kids Fun Zone 2.0: Dia de los Muertos

Date & Time: October 12 | 11AM-2PM


Location: Anaheim Town Square | 2180 East Lincoln Avenue Anaheim, CA 92806


Price: Free 


💀🌼 Embrace the rich cultural heritage of Dia de los Muertos with an afternoon filled with colorful festivities, traditional dances, and family-friendly fun. Best of all, it's completely FREE for everyone to enjoy! 🌼💀


Mickey's Halloween Party Night Market

Date & Time: October 5 | 4PM-8PM


Location: 761 Corporate Center Dr | 761 Corporate Center Drive Pomona, CA 91768


Prices: Free


Information: Come join us for a spooktacular night at 761 Corporate Center Dr! Get ready for a fun-filled evening of shopping over 90+ vendors including food, and entertainment. Dress up in your best Halloween costume and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Browse through a variety of vendors offering unique products and delicious treats. Don't miss out on this exciting event!


Free Event, Free Parking -


Meet&Greet with Mickey and his 3 other pals dressed in their Halloween clothes!

Free Trick or treating In all 90+ vendor booths, Costume contest with prizes


Live DJ, Bounce house for the kids


Free Halloween trick or treating buckets to the first 30 kids in line wearing costumes


Free Spooky Disney tees to the first 24 adults in line wearing Halloween costumes or halloween attire

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