Dear Families,

We are finally getting into a grove in our classroom. It is beautiful to see our students beginning to normalize and guiding one another. Our students have really done an excellent job with their community helpers jobs and assisting each other with their jobs. Who knew dusting shelves and works could be so much fun!

Highlights from the Week:

• Computers on Wheels (COW) — our level threes were the first to work on the COW this week. Level threes are in the process of writing their first personal narrative using UtahCompose. Students were asked to complete a graphic organizer and begin their first draft on the computer. They will be finishing their drafts this week before entering into their final stage of writing. Level ones and level twos will be on the COW this week as well, but focusing on using Imagine Learning for language and math.
• Fact Frenzy — on Mondays and Wednesdays our students are asked to complete a five minute fact test based on where they are in their memorization of facts. Each time, we encourage our students to push themselves a little harder. They are competing against theirselves and no one else. We’ve gotten to the point that when Ms. Lana pulls out the Fact Frenzy bin, students are anxiously waiting for their folder. If you are interested in practicing at home, we use math-drills.com. Each student should know what they are working on, but if they do not, please email us and we can let you know. By the end of the year, all level ones should complete their addition facts to +10. Level twos should know all of their addition facts to +10 and their subtraction facts to double digit minuends. Level threes should know all of their addition facts to +10, their subtraction facts to double digit minuends, and their multiplication facts to x12. Math fluency is critical in the student’s ability to complete large operations.
• International Peace Day — our students did a beautiful job singing “Light a Candle for Peace.” A large amount of students remembered singing this song last year and even remembered the hand movements with it. Each student also had the opportunity to create their own Prayer Flag. These will be displayed in the South Kiva.

We are looking forward to listening/watching each student present their Creative Writing Home Project this week. Please check the September Home Project post to find out when your student presents.

As always, please let us know if you have any questions, concerns, or comments at LPas@mariamontessoriacademy.org.

With gratitude,

Ms. Lana and Ms. Carolyn