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Ms. Handibode: One Hundred Days Strong

Posted on by Michelle Handibode

Last week was a big one! We celebrated the 100th day of school—a milestone the kindergarteners have been working toward since the very first day. From day one, they have been practicing counting by 1s, 5s, and 10s, and this week, all of that daily effort paid off in a big way. The children rotated through stations where they drew pictures of what they would want when they turn 100, imagined how they would spend $100, and dreamed up what they would wish for if they had 100 of something. They made 100th-day headbands, played Race to 100, completed 100 exercises, and challenged themselves to sit quietly for 100 full seconds. They even enjoyed a special 100th-day snack. It was a joyful, memorable afternoon, and none of it would have come together without the generous behind-the-scenes support of our parent volunteers—thank you!

We were also delighted to welcome Zion’s mom as a guest reader. She shared a wonderful book called Looking for Smile, and the children loved having a special visitor join us for story time. This tradition of parents and family members reading aloud to the class is one we treasure.

Our cultural study has taken us to Africa, the second-largest continent in the world. As we do with each continent, we first found Africa on the globe, then located it on the world map, and now we are diving into its geography, culture, weather, animals, and people. The children have been learning some truly remarkable facts: Africa is home to 54 countries and more than one thousand languages. The Nile, the world’s longest river, flows through it. The Sahara, the world’s largest desert, stretches across its northern region. Mount Kilimanjaro rises so high that glaciers form at its summit—even near the equator. Africa is also the only continent through which both the prime meridian and the equator pass. And of course, it is home to the world’s tallest animal, the giraffe, and the largest land animal, the African elephant.

Extending Learning at Home

Pull up a map or globe with your child and find Africa together. Ask them to point out the Nile River or the Sahara Desert, or see if they can tell you something that surprised them about the continent. You might also visit your local library for picture books about African animals, geography, or cultures—there is so much richness to explore.

UPCOMING EVENTS & ANNOUNCEMENTS

This Week

  • Monday, February 23
    ⋅ Sharing Box and Flowers – Charley W.
  • Wednesday, February 25
    ⋅ Guest Reader – Katie D.
  • Thursday, February 26
    ⋅ Birthday Celebration – Charley W.

Next Week

  • Monday, March 2
    ⋅ Sharing Box and Flowers – Olivia S.
  • Tuesday, March 3
    ⋅ Read Across America Day and Pajama Day
    Bring your favorite book and wear your pajamas to school
  • Wednesday, March 4
    ⋅ Guest Reader – Kate B.
  • Thursday, March 5
    ⋅ Taekwondo Demonstration at 9:30 a.m.
    ⋅ Birthday Celebration, Olivia S.

Looking Ahead

  • March 9—March 20
    ⋅ No School | March Break
      As a reminder, the Bridge to Spring program is available during March Break. Click here to register.

Individual Passions, One Community Project in Lower Elementary

Posted on by Ashley O'Connell

This is such an exciting season in our Lower Elementary classroom as students finalize their research posters and presentation boards.

Our third-year students have officially completed their research papers, which is a major accomplishment after weeks of reading, note-taking, drafting, revising, and getting to type up their final draft. Now, they are eagerly practicing reading and presenting their work to classmates, building confidence as they prepare for their first formal oral presentation on Research Night. After families explore the fair portion in the gym, our third years will proudly share their research with third-grade families in the classroom— a meaningful milestone in their Montessori journey.

Our second-year students have also worked hard to write their own research papers, carefully handwritten from start to finish. The dedication it takes to organize their thoughts, draft, edit, and neatly publish an entire paper by hand is no small task. They have shown wonderful perseverance and pride as they prepare both their written work and their poster boards.

Meanwhile, our first-year students have been diligently assembling their poster boards, thoughtfully organizing their research into polished displays. For many, this is their first experience presenting research in this way, and their excitement is evident.

What makes this time especially meaningful in a Montessori classroom is the shared sense of purpose. Each child has chosen their own topic, yet the entire class is engaged in a collective endeavor. The room is filled with collaboration, encouragement, and curiosity as students learn from one another, offer support, and celebrate each other’s progress. It is a beautiful example of community in action, individual passions coming together in one shared, inspiring experience.

Below is the schedule for the evening:

5:30–6:15 PM | Research Fair Style
During this time, the gym will be set up as a fair-style event. Children will stand at their individual stations and share their research findings with visiting families. This is a wonderful opportunity to see their hard work and hear the children share their research findings.

6:15–6:45 PM | Third-Year Oral Presentations
From 6:15–6:45, our third-year students will present their oral presentations in the classroom. These presentations will be shared only with their own families. We have intentionally limited the audience to help ease the children into public speaking in a way that feels supportive, developmentally appropriate, and not overwhelming for our presenters.

Mrs. Lopes: Our Journey Through Asia Continues

Posted on by Amanda Lopes

Last week, our study of Asia came alive as we focused on China and discovered something fascinating: not every language is written the same way. While we use letters to represent sounds, Chinese uses symbols—characters—where each symbol represents an entire word or idea. The children were captivated by this concept, and it opened a wonderful conversation about how many different ways people communicate across the world.

To bring this discovery to life, we introduced a new work to our shelves: the Buddha Board. Children can practice writing Chinese characters using only water and a special brush—the marks appear as they write and then slowly fade, inviting them to try again and again. It is a beautiful exercise in focus, patience, and fine motor control, and the children have been drawn to it throughout the week.

We also explored the celebration of the Chinese New Year—its traditions, its colors, and its vibrant imagery. The children were then invited to channel their creativity by making dragon masks or lion dancer puppets. Both the dragon and the lion are symbols of good luck and strength in Chinese culture, and the children brought real care and artistry to their creations.

Last Tuesday, we celebrated the 100th day of school—a milestone the kindergarteners have been working toward since the very first day. From day one, they have been practicing counting by 1s, 5s, and 10s, and this week, all of that daily effort paid off in a big way. The children rotated through stations where they drew pictures of what they would want when they turn 100, imagined how they would spend $100, and dreamed up what they would wish for if they had 100 of something. They made 100th-day headbands, played Race to 100, completed 100 exercises, and challenged themselves to sit quietly for 100 full seconds. They even enjoyed a special 100th-day snack. It was a joyful, memorable afternoon, and none of it would have come together without the generous behind-the-scenes support of our parent volunteers—thank you!

Extending Learning at Home

Look up a few simple Chinese characters together with your child—start with ones that are meaningful to them, like the symbols for “sun,” “moon,” or “tree.” You might also explore images of Chinese New Year celebrations online and ask your child to share what they know about the dragon or lion dance. Even a short conversation about how other cultures celebrate the new year can deepen and extend what they are discovering in the classroom.

UPCOMING EVENTS & ANNOUNCEMENTS

This Week

  • Wednesday, February 25
    ⋅ Guest Reader – Petra H.
  • Friday, February 27
    ⋅ Love’s Half Birthday Celebration

Next Week

  • Tuesday, March 3
    ⋅ Read Across America Day and Pajama Day
    Bring your favorite book and wear your pajamas to school
  • Wednesday, March 4
    ⋅ Hadley’s Half Birthday Celebration
  • Thursday, March 5
    ⋅ Taekwondo Demonstration at 9:30 a.m.

Looking Ahead

  • March 9—March 20
    ⋅ No School | March Break
      As a reminder, the Bridge to Spring program is available during March Break. Click here to register.

Mrs. Sargeant: A World of Learning

Posted on by Christine Sargeant

 

Last week was filled with celebration and discovery. The children were thrilled to exchange valentines with their classmates, and the pride on their faces as they delivered a card to each friend’s mailbox bag was truly special. Every child took the time to write their own name on their cards—a meaningful moment of independence that doubles as beautiful writing practice. It was grace and courtesy in action.

We also celebrated the 100th day of school. The kindergarteners have been counting by 1s, 5s, and 10s since the very first day, and that daily practice led to a full afternoon of 100-themed activities. They drew what they would want at age 100, imagined what they would buy with $100, and listed what they would wish they had 100 of. They played Race to 100, completed 100 exercises, and tested their patience sitting quietly for 100 seconds. It was a joyful milestone, and the children rose to every challenge.

Beyond the celebrations, the children have been deeply engaged in their work on the shelves. Many have been drawn to the 100 Board, using it to reinforce their growing number sense through hands-on practice. Others have been captivated by our study of Africa, working to learn the names of African countries and creating their own maps of the continent. We also spent time discussing the Lunar New Year and the traditions associated with this celebration, connecting our classroom to the wider world.

Extending Learning at Home

To extend our Africa study, find the continent together on a map or globe and see if your child can name any of the countries or share a fact that surprised them. For Lunar New Year, look up images of the celebrations together and talk about how different cultures around the world mark the new year. And if your child has been working with numbers at home, try counting collections of small objects by 5s or 10s—it reinforces exactly the kind of mathematical thinking we are building in the classroom.

UPCOMING EVENTS & ANNOUNCEMENTS

This Week

  • Monday, February 23
    ⋅ Guest Reader – Hennessey
  • Tuesday, February 24
    ⋅ Celebrate Violet’s Half Birthday
  • Wednesday, February 25
    ⋅ Guest Reader – Forgione

Next Week

  • Tuesday, March 3
    ⋅ Read Across America Day and Pajama Day
    Bring your favorite book and wear your pajamas to school
  • Thursday, March 5
    ⋅ Taekwondo Demonstration at 9:30 a.m.

Looking Ahead

  • March 9—March 20
    ⋅ No School | March Break
      As a reminder, the Bridge to Spring program is available during March Break. Click here to register.

Ms. Marissa: Sink or Float?

Posted on by Marissa Frisk

Last week was full of discovery! We kicked things off with a beloved classroom experiment: sink or float. The children were genuinely surprised by just how many objects sank and how few they could find that floated. What makes this experiment so special is that it isn’t just a quick demonstration — it requires the children to follow many steps from start to finish, building concentration, patience, and careful observation along the way.

The rainy weather kept us indoors more than usual, but that didn’t slow us down. When we couldn’t head outside, we made our way to the gym for movement time with hula hoops and balls. We also took full advantage of our Primary Open Space, which has quickly become a favorite. This space is rich with sensorial activities, gross motor opportunities, and even fort building with the nugget foam pieces. It has been a wonderful setting for practicing turn-taking and building community.
We were also happy to celebrate a half-birthday this week! If your child has a summer birthday, a half-birthday walk at school is a beautiful way to mark the occasion.

Extending Learning at Home

Try a sink or float experiment at your kitchen sink! Gather a mix of small household items — a coin, a sponge, a grape, a plastic spoon — and ask your child to predict before dropping each one in. Talk about what the items that float have in common. You may be just as surprised as we were!

UPCOMING EVENTS & ANNOUNCEMENTS

This Week

Next Week

  • Tuesday, March 3
    ⋅ Read Across America Day and Pajama Day
    Bring your favorite book and wear your pajamas to school
  • Thursday, March 5
    ⋅ Taekwondo Demonstration at 9:30 a.m.

Looking Ahead

  • March 9—March 20
    ⋅ No School | March Break
      As a reminder, the Bridge to Spring program is available during March Break. Click here to register.

Mrs. Wilson: Big Toddler Emotions

Posted on by Cynthia Wilson

This week in our classroom, we focused on naming and expressing emotions. The children are learning a new song, “Hello, Hello, How Are You?” which incorporates hand motions and facial expressions to match different feelings. At the end of the song, each child has the opportunity to point to the feeling they are experiencing. Lately, many of them have been choosing “tired” or “surprised,” which has been so sweet to see! We will continue this song for the remainder of the month.

Giving children the language to name their feelings is an important first step in helping them eventually express those feelings in healthy ways. We remind them that all feelings, including sadness and anger, are okay. What matters most is how we respond to those feelings.

We also practice strategies to help our bodies when we experience big toddler emotions. We take deep breaths, pause together, and talk about what our bodies might need in that moment — sometimes that’s a quiet space, and sometimes it’s a big hug.

Also, we celebrated another friend’s third birthday. Happy Birthday to our sweet friend!

Food Tasting: This week, for food tasting, we explored the vibrant beet! The children had the opportunity to observe and handle the beet in its whole form, complete with its long stalks and leafy greens. We talked about how the beet is a root vegetable—meaning the round, colorful part grows underground, while the stalks and leaves grow above the soil.

After taking time to explore its texture, shape, and beautiful deep color, the children were invited to taste the roasted beet.

Love and Light,

Cynthia and Sara

Ms. Vicki’s Weekly Update

Posted on by Vicki Downs

This week, we focused on slowing down, working carefully, and completing activities from start to finish independently. It was wonderful to watch the children take pride in their efforts and show growing confidence in their abilities.

During art time, the children practiced unscrewing the caps on dot markers by themselves. This small but meaningful task strengthens hand muscles, coordination, and perseverance. They were so proud when they were able to do it on their own!

When water spilled after pouring activities, the children helped wipe the tables independently. These moments are valuable opportunities to learn responsibility, care for our environment, and understand that mistakes are part of the learning process.

We also practiced walking calmly from one activity to the next, helping create a peaceful classroom where everyone can focus and feel comfortable. The children are becoming more aware of their movements and how they share space with friends.

We were able to enjoy some time outside in the snow this week! The children loved moving their bodies, exploring the chilly air, and experiencing winter weather.

Keep an eye on the weather this weekend and look for updates Monday morning.

Ms. Marissa: Celebrating Black History Month

Posted on by Marissa Frisk

Last week, our morning circle time was dedicated to celebrating Black Americans in history. Throughout February, we’ve been learning about remarkable individuals who have made significant contributions to our world. The children discussed Lonnie Johnson, Garrett Morgan, and Katherine Johnson, learning about their incredible achievements and innovations. The children were especially amazed by Lonnie Johnson’s Super Soaker invention! 

Valentine’s Day provided a wonderful opportunity to focus on friendship, grace and courtesy, and love for our families. The children made cards for one another, practiced noticing the kindness of others, and learned how to be extra special friends. This celebration beautifully reinforced the care and compassion we cultivate in our classroom community every day.

This time of year, we’re really seeing the mixed-age classroom thrive in beautiful ways. The kindergarteners have fully settled into their roles as classroom leaders—now in the final stretch of their Primary years. They model grace, courtesy, and mastery of materials for their younger friends. First-year children have developed so many skills, but still benefit from guidance from their older friends, who are always happy to step in and help. The second-year children have the best of both worlds! They know the lay of the land and are looking forward to their time as classroom role models next year. This dynamic creates a supportive, family-like environment where everyone has something to offer and something to learn.

After experiencing sub-zero temperatures, last week felt like spring! The children truly enjoyed getting outside, and the warmer weather has given us more opportunities to explore our beautiful campus and connect with nature.

 

UPCOMING EVENTS & ANNOUNCEMENTS

Kindergarten parents please look for a letter in Thursday’s take home folder, explaining the 100th day of School celebration.
We will be celebrating this big day on Tuesday, February 17th.

This Week

    • Monday, February 16
      ⋅ No School | President’s Day
    • Tuesday, February 17
      ⋅ Kindergarten 100th Day Celebration