Blog

Starting the New School Year Strong

This past summer, I had the opportunity to attend a presentation by Phyllis L. Fagell, LCPC. Phyllis Fagell is a school counselor in Washington, DC, a therapist who works with children and teens in private practice, and an author and journalist. 

Her most recent book, Middle School SuperPowers, Raising Resilient Tweens in Turbulent Times, is recommended for parents and educators of upper elementary-age children and up. 

Amazon’s review of Phyllis Fagell’s book:

“Middle School Superpowers is an indispensable, engaging, and reassuring resource for anyone raising or educating tweens in today’s complicated world.” 

The webinar was hosted by The Social Institute (TSI). TSI is dedicated to equipping educators with a valuable learning platform designed to help students effectively navigate their social environments, including the realm of social media and technology. Their mission is to promote students’ well-being and future success by reinforcing essential character traits such as empathy, integrity, and teamwork.

Phyllis Fagell introduces the concept of 12 Middle School Superpowers that empower young minds to manage disappointment, regulate their emotions, take healthy risks, and bounce back from setbacks. 

These superpowers are:

  1. Flexibility
  2. Belonging
  3. Sight
  4. Bounce
  5. Agency
  6. Forcefield
  7. Security
  8. Healing
  9. Vulnerability
  10. Daring
  11. Optimism
  12. Balance

Some takeaways from Fagell’s talk to help us build their superpowers:

  • Social Media and Technology are prominent topics in students’ lives. Adults talk negatively about social media and technology, creating a disconnect with kids.
  • Disappointment is something kids can get through. We must help them understand what it means to be optimistic and feel validated without toxic positivity.
  • As educators, we must communicate respect for students’ needs and understand the developmental phase. Example: At that moment, when you overhear something mean or something that goes against the values of the classroom, the adults need to address it right away, not in a punitive way, but in a calm manner. The kids must know that we also are taking responsibility for preserving our community’s culture.
  • We do not talk down to children, we do not talk at them, and we need to be mindful not to use friendly sarcasm because you don’t know how that will land.
  • When a child comes to you on a Thursday and mentions that they have a track meet that weekend, or they’re excited because they’re visiting a grandparent, or maybe they have an exciting sleepover that they’re looking forward to, Fagell suggests that we write it down on a post-it note so that the following week or the next time you see them which might be several days later, you can circle back and ask them about those experiences. Those small gestures make a big difference. 

An interesting fact Fagell shared: 

Did you know that a significant 79% of students attribute their motivation to pursue their dreams to the guidance of their teachers? Educators play an indispensable role in shaping the path to student success. 

As we prepare for the upcoming school year, my fellow educators and I intentionally work to contribute to the well-being, happiness, and future achievements of all our students every day.  

Here is to the start of a wonderful school year!


Upper El: International Day of Peace 2023


“We shall walk together on this path of life, for all things are part of the universe and are connected with each other to form one whole unity.” -Dr. Maria Montessori

Every year, on the 21st of September, the International Day of Peace is observed worldwide. This day was established by the United Nations 42 years ago and is a reminder for all of us to commit to building a culture of peace. Montessori schools celebrate this day from New Zealand to Hawaii by singing for peace. Our school joined in on Thursday, with toddlers through eighth-grade gathering on the field to sing “Light a Candle For Peace” as a whole school. It was a beautiful celebration, with upper elementary and middle school students signing the lyrics while singing the song.

After our Peace Day gathering, Upper El students enthusiastically and sweetly volunteered to help some of our toddlers move from the field to the toddler playground, taking their hands and walking beside them. We also have some fifth-grade students volunteering daily to walk three-year-olds to dismissal and a waiting list of students who want to help next week. I am consistently impressed with their willingness to be helpful and kind. Our fourth- and fifth-grade students emerge as school leaders during their Upper Elementary years.

Another highlight of our week was a visit from guest speaker Kelsey Tainsh. Kelsey is a world champion athlete and acclaimed professional speaker who has survived two brain tumors, one at five and one at fifteen, and a stroke during her second surgery to remove her brain tumor. She inspires audiences through her life experience and met with Upper El and Middle School students, delivering her message of kindness, inclusion, and acceptance.

**A reminder that on Thursday, 9/28, we will travel to the Adventure Park at the Discovery Museum in Bridgeport from 10 to 2 for a day of high ropes and fun! Closed-toed sneakers and a bagged lunch from home are needed. We have two parent volunteers and are happy to welcome more! Just let me know if you’d like to join us.

Wishing you a peaceful long weekend,

Karen and Deb


Middle School: Week in Review

Happy Friday, FWM Middle School community! Another great week is in the books. Students are moving right along with their independent study projects, joining their younger peers during Social Impact, and plugging away on their Leadership initiatives. They had a great experience hearing speaker Kelsey Tainsh and participating in International Peace Day with our school community.

**A reminder that on Thursday, 9/28, we will travel to the Adventure Park at the Discovery Museum in Bridgeport from 10 to 2 for a day of high ropes and fun! Closed-toed sneakers and a bagged lunch from home will be needed.

Here’s what went on in some of their other classes this week:

Math

In the Pre-Transition math class, students worked hard to prepare for their first chapter quiz. Students learned how to find equal fractions, measure lengths in customary units, and convert mixed units to single units. This class works hard to stay organized with their daily notes and is now more comfortable using their binders to file past lesson master assignments.
In the Transition (pre-algebra) math class, students explored how to solve order of operations questions, convert powers to word names, and multiply rational numbers by powers of ten. This class wrote the Chapter 1 Quiz on Friday, September 22nd, and will receive their grades next week. Ms. Sutherland encourages all students to study well for assessments to feel prepared and confident in their work.
In the Algebra 1 math class, students concluded their learning of Chapter 1 and can now successfully use algebraic statements to describe unique patterns. This week, they learned about calculating a data set’s range, mean, and mean absolute deviation, as well as evaluating expressions with absolute values. This class will begin learning Chapter 2 next week!
In the Geometry math class, students finished learning all six lessons in Chapter 1 of the UCSMP textbook. This class was assessed on their understanding of determining distance on a number line, finding the point of intersection of two lines, and recognizing the use of different postulates. Next week, the class will begin learning Chapter 2, “The Language and Logic of Geometry.”
Math Joke:
What was Sir Isaac Newton’s favorite dessert?…. Apple Pi
Science

6th-year Earth Science students worked on creating their resin molds this week. Students chose an item they wished to preserve in their resin. Some students chose leaves of native plants, while others chose a mosquito (very Jurassic Park). The intention of this activity was for students to apply their working knowledge of the different elements that affect preservation potential.

This week, 7th-year Physical Science students finished their unit, Combining and Separating. Students were tasked with collaborating to separate a mixture using a set of materials provided and later separate a mixture independently. Students could determine which tool was best suited to remove certain items based on their physical properties, such as size, shape, color, density, or magnetism. Each student was able to apply their knowledge of past activities, making each process moving forward more efficient and effective.
8th-year Life Science students have worked hard creating their list of items to represent the organelles of both a plant and animal cell. Beginning next week, students will create their cell cake construction, which will be presented to and consumed by the middle school. In association with the unit Cell Theory, students are conducting research on the use of stem cells. Students will be divided into groups of two, providing evidence that is either in favor of or against using stem cells.

Humanities

The 6th-grade Humanities class had a busy week! They have been reading Sharon Draper’s Out of My Mind and getting into the book discussion flow. They have a lot of insight to offer, and the conversations surrounding the book have been great. They have been finding ways to relate to the novel, and the plot certainly evokes some strong emotions from the class. To hear the story of this week’s guest speaker, Kelsey Tainsh, offered another layer of understanding for this class. Like Melody, Kelsey’s physical challenges have caused people to have major misconceptions about what she can and cannot do. As the class learns about empathy, these stories give students perspective and another sense of understanding for the diverse people they have and will encounter. Additionally, this class completed revisions of their “Where I’m From” poems, learned and used editing marks, and began their descriptive writing unit.

7th-grade Humanities classes had students wrapping up summer work and continuing their study of China. First, students delivered presentations about their summer independent choice novels. A variety of genres and topics were covered in these books. It is always exciting for Mrs. Lamb to note what students recommend to add some new titles to the Humanities library! Next, the class continued reading Lensey Namioka’s Ties That Bind, Ties That Break. Students are following the story of Ailin, who is growing up in a changing culture with a family that is split on whether to maintain tradition or change with the times. Class book discussions have been gripping, with almost everyone getting involved and providing perspective for each chapter. Their reactions and insight have Mrs. Lamb excited for the rest of the year’s novels and topics! Finally, they will continue visiting China’s provinces virtually and wrap this up next week.

8th Humanities classes took on a good amount of reading this week. First, they continue to read their class fictional novel, The Outsiders, by S.E. Hinton. They have reached the turning point in the story when a lot of action takes place. Book discussions surround their annotations on the chapters, and the students are providing insightful responses and reactions to the events in the plot. Additionally, they read the first chapter of A Different Mirror for Young People: A History of Multicultural America by Ronald Takaki. This chapter discussed the notion of the Master Narrative and what qualities determine if a person is American, addressing common assumptions as well. It tied in well with this week’s poem by Nellie Wong, “Where is My Country?”


Mrs. Sargeant- A Wonderful Week

 

It was truly a wonderful week! The children seem to really enjoy each other. Their faces light up each morning when they are reunited, and they notice when their peers are absent. Observing the children help one another with various tasks has been heartwarming.

We welcomed a few Middle School students into the class as part of their “Social Impact” experience. The toddlers warmed up quickly and were fascinated by these role models. They seemed to especially enjoy looking at books and building with blocks beside their new friends. This is such a wonderful way to build community at our school. We’re looking forward to another visit next week!

We had a peaceful circle time to celebrate International Day of Peace. We sang ‘Light a Candle for Peace’ as we each “lit” a candle and took turns to hug our Earth pillow. Later, we joined the whole school on the field to sing the song together.

We celebrated a friend’s second birthday this week. Happy Birthday, Jaxxon! Thank you for buying a copy of your favorite Bluey book for our classroom library.

This week, the trampoline has been a big hit. The children are learning to take turns while waiting patiently for their friend to finish jumping. Outdoors, they’re taking turns on the slide. Most of the children now love our outside time on the playground. Some children enjoy discovering and collecting twigs and acorns. Others spend much of their time in the sandbox. This week, a few keen observers discovered an interesting caterpillar and a colorful beetle, and another group found a toad!

We’re excited to see what adventures next week will bring!

Mrs. Sargeant and Ms. Lizette


Mrs. Doyle: Sing Peace Around The World


 

Peace is what every human being is craving for, and it can be brought about by humanity through the child. -Maria Montessori

Peace education is a basic tenet of the Montessori philosophy. In the 3-6 environment, studying the seven continents, including their people and cultures, provides a global view of our world. As Montessori teachers, practicing and teaching peace, kindness, and acceptance is a natural part of our day. Dr. Maria Montessori believed we should think of education as peace, not education for peace. She also believed that young children were our hope for eliminating conflict and instilling peace throughout the world. Dr. Montessori, as always, knew that lecturing children would accomplish very little and that to truly understand peace, they would need to discover it for themselves.

To celebrate Peace Day, we participate in “Sing Peace Around The World.”  Beginning in New Zealand and ending in Hawaii, Montessori schools around the world sing “Light A Candle For Peace” for five minutes. At FWM, we gathered together and sang with the entire school early Thursday morning. It was a powerful moment and reminder of the importance of teaching and modeling peace to everyone we interact with. So, for 24 hours, Montessori children sang this special song continuously in different parts of the world.

Wishing everyone a week filled with peace and love!

Michelle & Maria


Mrs. Lopes: Sing Peace Around the World


Peace is what every human being is craving for, and it can be brought about by humanity through the child. -Maria Montessori

Peace education is a basic tenet of the Montessori philosophy. In the 3-6 environment, studying the seven continents, including their people and cultures, provides a global view of our world. As Montessori teachers, practicing and teaching peace, kindness, and acceptance is a natural part of our day. Dr. Maria Montessori believed we should think of education as peace, not education for peace. She also believed that young children were our hope for eliminating conflict and instilling peace throughout the world. Dr. Montessori, as always, knew that lecturing children would accomplish very little and that to truly understand peace, they would need to discover it for themselves.

To celebrate Peace Day, we participate in “Sing Peace Around The World.”  Beginning in New Zealand and ending in Hawaii, Montessori schools around the world sing “Light A Candle For Peace” for five minutes. At FWM, we gathered together and sang with the entire school early Thursday morning. It was a powerful moment and reminder of the importance of teaching and modeling peace to everyone we interact with. So, for 24 hours, Montessori children sang this special song continuously in different parts of the world.

Wishing everyone a week filled with peace and love!

Amanda & Hema


Ms. Marissa: Sing Peace Around the World

 

Peace is what every human being is craving for, and it can be brought about by humanity through the child. -Maria Montessori

Peace education is a basic tenet of the Montessori philosophy. In the 3-6 environment, studying the seven continents, including their people and cultures, provides a global view of our world. As Montessori teachers, practicing and teaching peace, kindness, and acceptance is a natural part of our day. Dr. Maria Montessori believed we should think of education as peace, not education for peace. She also believed that young children were our hope for eliminating conflict and instilling peace throughout the world. Dr. Montessori, as always, knew that lecturing children would accomplish very little and that to truly understand peace, they would need to discover it for themselves.

To celebrate Peace Day, we participate in “Sing Peace Around The World.”  Beginning in New Zealand and ending in Hawaii, Montessori schools around the world sing “Light A Candle For Peace” for five minutes. At FWM, we gathered together and sang with the entire school early Thursday morning. It was a powerful moment and reminder of the importance of teaching and modeling peace to everyone we interact with. So, for 24 hours, Montessori children sang this special song continuously in different parts of the world.

Wishing everyone a week filled with peace and love!

Marissa & Sue


Lower Elementary- Week 3

An exciting part of our week was creating the class “Who Am I” material together. “Who Am I” is a collection of Montessori biology materials used to learn about the different kingdoms of life, specifically animals, plants, fungi, protists, and prokaryotes. As a fun beginning-of-the-year activity, we made this material focusing on the children in the classroom. This process started with the children answering questions about themselves. Next, it was typed up and turned into a material the students can use during work cycle. The “Who Am I” material is a fabulous and popular classification work, and it also provides work in comprehension and fluency while helping the children get to know each other!

We celebrated International Day of Peace on Thursday by singing “Sing Peace Around The World.” This special song is sung by Montessori children all around the world for 24 hours. We gathered as a whole school community, from toddlers to middle school students. It was a powerful moment and a reminder of the importance of teaching and modeling peace to our children.

Candlewood Fencing Center will lead a Lower Elementary Fencing Club on Tuesdays at FWM as part of our after-school enrichment program. To help children better understand the sport of Olympic fencing, coaches from Candlewood Fencing Center will be providing a demonstration for us during the school day on Tuesday, September 26. More information about the program will be available when the full fall enrichment schedule is announced.

Wishing everyone a peaceful weekend!