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November Newsletter

Mary Surivong • November 7, 2024

October Recap

October has been an exciting month at our school, filled with memorable events that brought our community together. We kicked it off with Fall Picture Day, capturing the smiles and personalities of our students. This was followed by our Breast Cancer Awareness Spirit Day, where everyone dressed in pink to show their support for a vital cause. Parent/Teacher Conferences allowed for meaningful conversations about expectations of students and their growth. To top it all off, our Spooktacular Trunk or Treat event provided a fun and festive atmosphere for families to celebrate Halloween together. Each event showcased the vibrant spirit of our school community! Let’s take a trip down memory lane.

Toddler Classrooms

In the Montessori philosophy, engaging toddlers in activities like raking leaves, coloring, and counting provides valuable developmental benefits.


Raking leaves not only promotes physical coordination and gross motor skills but also encourages children to connect with nature and understand the changing seasons.


Coloring enhances fine motor skills and encourages creativity, allowing toddlers to express themselves while refining their hand control.


Additionally, counting activities introduce basic mathematical concepts, such as number recognition and one-to-one correspondence, in a playful manner.


Together, these activities support independence, critical thinking, and a sense of accomplishment, all of which align with the Montessori emphasis on nurturing a child's natural curiosity and love for learning.

Primary Classrooms

Offering primary-aged children hands-on activities such as working with parts of a leaf puzzle, an Africa puzzle, using salt trays for letter tracing, and mirror polishing aligns well with the Montessori philosophy, which emphasizes experiential learning and independence. 


  • Parts of a Leaf Puzzle: Promotes an understanding of botany and the natural world, fostering curiosity and respect for the environment. 
  • Africa Country Puzzle: Introduces children to geography and cultural diversity, encouraging global awareness and appreciation for different communities. 
  • Salt Trays: Used for letter tracing provide a tactile experience that enhances fine motor skills and reinforces letter formation through sensory play. This activity supports the development of writing skills while allowing children to express creativity in a unique way. 
  • Mirror Polishing: Encourages self-reflection and pride in completing tasks. It teaches responsibility and care for materials, instilling a sense of accomplishment as children see their efforts result in a shiny, clean surface. 


Overall, these activities create a dynamic learning environment where children can develop essential skills, cultivate a sense of responsibility, and foster a lifelong love for learning. 

Kindergarten Program

Central to the Montessori philosophy is the value of group work, which enhances social interaction and collaboration among peers. Through cooperative activities, children learn to communicate effectively, share ideas, and develop empathy, all of which are essential skills as they transition from guided learning to a more autonomous educational experience. This nurturing environment promotes not only academic growth but also social and emotional development, preparing children for future collaborative endeavors.


  • Arts & Crafts: Creating Goblets (holding the water of imagination):
  • Encourages sensory exploration, allowing children to engage with various materials and textures, enhancing their awareness of the world around them.
  • Fosters decision-making skills as children express their preferences in design and color choices, promoting self-confidence in their artistic abilities. 
  • Reading Comprehension with Chapter Books:
  • Enhances vocabulary and language skills, as children encounter new words and phrases, enriching their understanding and use of language.
  • Develops critical thinking by encouraging children to make connections between the text and their own experiences, deepening comprehension and engagement with the story. 
  • Writing Work:
  • Promotes self-expression and creativity, allowing children to explore their thoughts and ideas freely in a safe space.
  • Encourages reflection and personal growth as children document their learning journey, helping them recognize their progress over time. 
  • Addition Tables:
  • Builds foundational math skills through hands-on learning, helping children understand addition in a practical and engaging way.
  • Encourages collaboration and communication as children work together to create and explain their tables, fostering a sense of community and teamwork. 

October Birthdays

Breast Cancer Awareness Spirit Day

Trunk or Treat

Winners of the Halloween Doors


November Events

Warm greetings to November! As we enter this month, we embrace the spirit of gratitude and community.


We will be closed on Veterans Day to honor the brave individuals who have served our country.


As we prepare for Thanksgiving, we are kindly asking parents to contribute small dishes for our cultural potluck on November 22nd, where we will celebrate our diverse traditions and cuisines in the classroom. Teachers will be sending out a sign-up sheet for those interested in participating.


Additionally, please remember that the school will be closed on the 28th and 29th, allowing families to celebrate Thanksgiving together.


This month, we will also emphasize themes of gratitude and courtesy, encouraging a spirit of thankfulness among our students. 

School Events & Closures

Veteran's Day - SCHOOL CLOSED

Veterans Day, observed on Monday, November 11th, is a significant occasion to honor and recognize the sacrifices made by our military veterans. In observance of this important day, the school will be closed, allowing families and the community the opportunity to reflect on the bravery and dedication of those who have served in the armed forces. It’s a time to teach our children the value of gratitude and respect for those who have fought for our freedoms.

Classroom Cultural Potluck

Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on gratitude and celebrate the diverse cultures that enrich our community. This year, our school will be hosting a Cultural Potluck on Friday, November 22nd, to honor this spirit of thankfulness. We invite parents to contribute a small cultural dish that represents their heritage for our classroom celebration. This will not only create a delicious variety of foods to share but also provide an opportunity for students to learn about and appreciate different traditions. The school will be sending out a sign-up sheet to coordinate contributions, ensuring a festive and inclusive celebration for everyone.

Thanksgiving Break - SCHOOL CLOSED

Thanksgiving is a cherished holiday that encourages families and friends to come together and express gratitude for their blessings. During this time, children learn important lessons about thankfulness, generosity, and the joy of sharing with others. As they participate in traditions like preparing meals and giving back to the community, they develop a deeper understanding of empathy and appreciation for what they have. This year, the school will be closed on Thursday, November 28th, and Friday, November 29th, allowing families to celebrate and reflect on the meaning of Thanksgiving.


Gaowa Family - Community Board

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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.
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Family Fun Events

Dia de Los Muertos Celebration at Hana Field in Costa Mesa

Date & Time: November 1-3 | 12PM - 5PM


Location: Tanaka Farms Hana Field | 427 Anton Blvd Costa Mesa


Price: General Admission: $10 | Military: Free


Information: Join us at Hana Field in Costa Mesa to honor those we have lost. Enjoy food, music, and crafts.

  • Ofrenda Altar: Explore a traditional altar to honor and remember departed loved ones.
  • Face Painting: Get into the spirit with vibrant face painting.
  • Mexican Cuisine: Savor the flavors of Mexico with an array of delicious food and beverages.
  • Animal Encounters: Visit and interact with friendly farm animals at our Barnyard Educational Exhibit. 

Night on the Farm - Craft Market

Date & Time: November  9 | 5PM-9PM


Location: Farmakis Farms | 29932 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano


Price: Free


Information: Family-owned Christmas tree farm and certified farmers' market located in San Juan Capistrano now offering a monthly craft market!

Craft markets are sprinkled throughout the year offering a variety of crafts such as jewelry, candles, soaps, succulent arrangements, hand-made cards, and so much more! FREE to attend.

St. Martin's Lantern Fest & Parade

Date & Time: Novmeber 10 | 5:30PM - 7PM


Location: Old World Village | 7561 Center Ave, Huntington Beach


Price: Free 


Enjoy a wonderful evening with your kids, grand-kids and the entire family at one of our signature events: St. Martin Lantern Parade at Old World German Courtyard in Huntington Beach.


Anaheim Ballet's Nutcracker

Date & Time: November 29 | 7PM-9PM


Location: City National Grove Anaheim | 2200 East Katella Avenue, Anaheim


Prices: $54.65 - $94.30


Information: The holiday season comes to life in Anaheim Ballet's Nutcracker, the heartwarming tale of Clara and her Nutcracker Doll who changes her woeful winter into a fanciful feast in Candyland.

The Nutcracker ballet is a cornerstone of seasonal family entertainment and tradition. Anaheim Ballet's full-length Nutcracker with Symphony Irvine is the production you and your family must see, a story presented with heart as only AB can present it.

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