This week has been amazing! We started off the week in full drive. We began with discussion of some of our Montessori Great Lessons: The Birth of the Universe, Earth’s composition and the Timeline of Life. We will continue our thread of historical science this next week with the Black Strip, the Clock of Eras, Timelines of Humans and feed right into our studies of the Native Americans. As part of this study, students had the opportunity to learn about the magnitude of a star’s explosion, gravity’s force, Earth’s inner workings, and the galaxy’s motions.

Also, as a continuation of our lessons from the week before in grace and courtesy, students had several social skills lessons. One lesson involved a book we are reading called “People You May Meet,” which talks about people with exceptionalities and how all people deserve our respect and kindness. Another lesson included positive language and a reminder to all students to call each other what we each would like to be called and none else. And yet another lesson revolved around our personal value. We gave each other compliments, read the lyrics to a song (“Gold” by Nicole Britt), and then listened to and watched its video. I sent a copy of the words home with each student; I hope you got the chance to read it.

We also dove into our pre-tests for the beginning of school in reading, writing, handwriting, and math. All students are being assessed in each area so we can provide them with the most appropriately matched, ability-based education. We will begin meeting within these smaller groups this next week. We will begin all areas in earnest.

Please do look at your student’s planner daily and discuss your student’s progress. On Fridays, they are bringing home yellow reflections forms for signature and discussion. Again, please speak with your child about these educational steps. These executive function skills are important in their progression

to Junior High and beyond. Plus, these tools help keep parents informed about your child’s personal progress in all subject areas. To the right here is a picture of when we did our first planning in the planners. We talked about what must be on certain days (computer lab, art, PE, Music, Class Meeting) and what has more choice to it (pretty much the rest.) Do notice what your student is accomplishing each week, where he or she likes to spend his or her time the most and what seems to get pushed aside and must be requested.

Whenever you have questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact me at sellis@mariamontessoriacademy.org.

I love being with your children; thank you for letting me guide their learning this year – it is awesome!

A note to remember: Check the calendar periodically for upcoming events like our Back To School Night on Sept. 13th!