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Dates to Remember:

• February 11th:  Wine Tasting Event at Village Inn and Pub 7:00 p.m.
  
• February 13th:  Board of Trustees Meeting at 6:00 p.m.
  
• February 14th:  Valentine’s Day!
  
• February 16th:  Georgia Student Scholarship sign up 8:00 – 9:00 a.m.
  
• February 20th:  President’s Day Holiday
  
• February 21st:  Mommy and Me at 9:30 a.m. / Open House Event from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m.

• February 24th:  Teacher Workday – Primary does not attend/Elementary dismissed at noon/ Fun Day in After Care – Registration forms going home this week

Quotes from the Staff: 

From time to time we are amazed at the sentences we speak as teachers.  When we were training, we had such lofty ideas about Piaget’s windows of learning and the Socratic method, but sometimes, the reality is a little more humbling – here’s some of our recent favorites:
 
“Please put down the feather.  It is not part of your lunch.”
 
“Please take New Hampshire out of your ear.”
 
“Please don’t put your hands in your pants and then in your mouth.”
 
“I would like to help you, but I must ask that you let go of his neck.”
 
“Mulch is not food.”
 
Valentine’s Day News: 

Please contact your child’s teacher if you have any questions about the exchanging of Valentines.  This is one of the loveliest days of the year, and we promise the children will be delighted with the day.
 
Saturday Night: 

I am wearing red in celebration of this Valentine fun for parents and staff.  Many thanks to all the fabulous parents who are putting this together.  We especially thank The Still for sponsoring the wine part of this evening, and to Michelle and George Stewart for helping us locate a star-quality chef.  See you there!
 
And a parent recently sent us this:

“My promise to my children, as long as I live:  I am your parent first, and your friend second.  I will stalk you, flip out on you, lecture you, drive you insane, be your worst nightmare, and hunt you down like a bloodhound when needed, because I love you. When you understand that, I will know you are a responsible adult.  You will never find someone who loves, prays, cares, and worries about you more than I do.   If you don’t hate me once in your life, I am not doing my job properly.
 
 

Dates to Remember:

• January 30th:  Fox’s Pizza Night (YAY!)

• February 1st:  Student Showcase (invitations are in the bags today)

• February 11th:  Wine Tasting Event at Village Inn and Pub 7:00 p.m.

• February 16th:  Georgia Student Scholarship sign up 8:00 – 9:00 a.m.

• February 20th:  President’s Day Holiday

• February 21st:  Mommy and Me at 9:30 a.m./Open House Event from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m.

 
Snow Day Recap: 

Warm weather, lots and lots of snow, biscuits and snowflake cookies, hot chocolate, a BIG slope to slide down, and happy, happy kids and parents.  Too much fun and thanks to all who made this day so magical!  
 
Wine Tasting Event:

Got tickets?!! Ten exclusive wines to taste and food by an Atlanta chef, oh, and great company.  It does not get too much better than this, and just in time for Valentine’s Day.  Please consider bringing your friends – we would love to entertain them too!
 
Golf Tournament:

(What? So soon?)  Of course, this is right on time:  The school sponsored Golf tournament on April 16th is a sock-knocker-offer! And guess what’s in the blue bags today…(okay, we won’t make you guess) ..the envelopes with the letters and information for raffle tickets .  Yay!  It’s time! The raffle is a huge part of the event, and you are awesome for helping make it happen.
 
January News:

Progress reports will be coming home this week for every student, because this is part of what we did on the Teacher Workday last week.  We also prepared for the Student Showcase this coming Wednesday evening.
 
A question often asked about Student Showcase is whether students need to wear uniforms, and no, they do not.  Some children like to dress up, some like to dress down, and some like to wear their uniforms.  Be easy, please.
 
Icky Sick News:

A rogue virus with intermittent fever is afflicting students – sometimes lasting several days – this has been prevalent in both primary and elementary. A case of strep was diagnosed in Mrs. Moseley’s room last week, and a tummy virus accompanied by profound sleepiness has visited every classroom.  Further, the downside of this incredibly mild winter is that grasses are blooming again, and children with allergies/asthma are reportedly having breathing difficulties now.

Dates to Remember:
 

• January 24th:  Mommy and Me at 9:30 a.m.
• January 26th:  SNOW DAY – Primary dismisses at 10:15 a.m. / Elementary dismisses at 11:30 a.m.
• January 27th:  Teacher Workday (primary and elementary do not attend) / Fun Day from 9:00 – 4:00 p.m. (reservations required)
• January 30th:  Fox’s Pizza Night (YAY!)
• February 1st:  Student Showcase (invitations are in the bags today)
• February 11th:  Wine Tasting Event at Village Inn and Pub 7:00 p.m.
• February 16th:  Georgia Student Scholarship sign up 8:00 – 9:00 a.m.
• February 20th:  President’s Day Holiday
  
• February 21st:  Mommy and Me at 9:30 a.m. / Open House Event from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m.

 
Congratulations to the CMS chess team! 

The  Chessmaster Team won high honors this weekend, and by all accounts the students were awesome in their concentration and good sportsmanship.  Gabriel Gold, Emma Williams, Chip LeRoux, Zane Buchli, Ethan Miller, Adam Elsharkawi, and Sydney and Ben Carroll made up the first – third grade team.  Brooke Zell and Marshall Baker were the elementary team, and Hayes LeRoux and Jeremiah Hasler played as novices.
 
Seven chess teams participated with over 150 students playing.  South Carolina took home first place, and the Christian Montessori team took second, Frederica Academy took third.  Adam Elsharkawi went four and one (Yay Adam!), and Jeremiah Hasler tied for third place and took a ribbon (Congratulations, Jeremiah!)
 
The school has a beautiful trophy which will visit every player for 24 hours, and then will have a place of honor on the school’s trophy shelf.  We are so very proud of these students!
 
Student Showcase News:  

The  showcase is scheduled for WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1ST, and the invitations are in your child’s blue bag today.  Please know we are sending this a week and a half early so parents can more easily make arrangements to attend.
 
Snow Day:  

All is in place for this big adventure.  Drop off in the morning is as usual and children will need their blue school bags. If you are helping in the kitchen on Thursday, please bring your students through car line like any other day = calmness. Gloves are mandatory on the snow, as those without gloves become fussy and often cry (and this is just the adults).   No gloves = no snow.

Current weather report says the temperature will be at least 50 degrees, therefore, please avoid giant puffy snow suits for Thursday, as the children get way too hot.  Questions about snow day?  Call your child’s teacher and they will be happy to help!
 
Sibling News:  

Younger brothers and sisters may play on the snow AFTER the elementary has left the snow at about 11:15a.m.  Please understand that for all the safety reasons you can imagine, small children cannot be on the snow with the students.

FUN DAY THIS FRIDAY:  

This  Friday is a teacher workday, and the After Care room is open for cooking, art, and games.  Registrations for Friday are due by this Wednesday, and please remember that enrollment is limited.
 
Other Sibling News:  

If your Montessori student has a younger brother or sister whom you would like to have attend CMS in August, please be sure to file an application form at the school soon.  Current families get first placement for the upcoming school year until February 15th.

Dates to Remember:
 

• January 22nd:  Open House for Prospective Parents 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.
• January 26th:  SNOW DAY (early dismissal)
• January 27th:  Teacher Workday (After Care Fun Day)
• February 1st:  Student Showcase (by invitation)
• February 11th:  Wine Tasting Event at Village Inn and Pub
• February 16th:  Georgia State Scholarship sign up 8:00 – 9:00 a.m.
• February 20th:  President’s Day Holiday
• February 21st:  Mommy and Me at 9:30 a.m./Open House Event from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m.

 
Microscope News:

The proceeds from Pie Day have allowed the upper elementary students to purchase the microscope camera which allows all students to see the same slide at the same time, and to take pictures of what they see.  On January 20th, Dr. Bezanson will visit the students in this class for a microscope in service where the students will learn to prepare slides for study.
 
Welcome to the World News:

Champ and Liza Bailey are happy to announce the safe arrival of their baby brother, Henry.  Henry McNeill Bailey was born on January 2nd, and weighed in at 7 lbs and 2 ounces.  The CMS shepherd committee is sending meals and love from all of us.
 
Welcome to CMS News:  

Zoey Wilkes (age 6)  has joined Mrs. Moseley’s classroom, and we happily welcome this new family to our school.  Please introduce yourself to them, and please answer any questions they may have about the school.
 
Handprint News:

Janita Nelson, Dan Hankins, and Steve Moore worked over the weekend to hang the handprint art piece featuring the work of our students.  The outdoor art is displayed on the primary playground fence – please come and see it!
 
Wine Tasting Event:

The wine tasting scheduled for February 11th is a fund raiser for the school.  A copy of the invitation is coming home to you today, and we hope you will invite and share this news with everyone you know who loves wine and good food.  Tickets are available here at the school, at The Still, and at the Village Inn and Pub.  
 
Please help the board make this event a huge success by helping get these tickets sold, and then by coming and enjoying the evening!
 
Georgia Student Scholarship News:  

Beverly Trainor (CMS grandparent) and Caroline Tobler (CMS parent) will be in the Conference Room on Thursday, February 16th to help parents complete and submit the pesky paperwork for this incredibly good deal.  
 
These scholarship dollars help pay tuition which, in turn, helps pay teacher salaries, and the best part is that IT COSTS YOU NOTHING.  Monies for the scholarship come back to you as an equal deduction on your taxes – no strings, no fuss, no problem.  In fact, you deduct the amount from your state taxes AND you can declare the deduction as a donation to a non-profit organization = DOUBLE THE BENEFIT.
 
Please call Beverly (638-5039) or Caroline (634-3799) with your questions, and mark this date on your calendar.
 
Snow Day News:  

The big event is almost here.  Please find a blue sheet in your child’s papers today and sign up to help with some aspect of this fun day.  Return the blue sheets by tomorrow, please, as it takes many hands to prepare.
 
A schedule for Snow Day will come home next week. There is an early dismissal on Snow Day:   Primary students are dismissed from the school at 10:15 a.m. and Elementary Students will be dismissed at 11:30 a.m.
 
They will be wet and dirty in car line (and very happy!), so please plan to protect your car seats with trash bags or old towels.
 
Christian Education News:  

The upper elementary students are reading the book of Matthew in the New Testament.  We have just discovered why we should not throw our pearls before swine, and we have found the Lord’s Prayer, and we have discussed the recipe for a good prayer (Praise, Wanting God’s will, Trusting God to give us what we need, Forgiveness, and Asking God to protect us).
 
The lower elementary students have begun the story of Daniel.  Daniel was a good man who believed in the power of prayer – even in the face of golden idols, and lions, and flame.  Pastor gets very excited when he tells this story, so the students are thrilled.  Please don’t give away the ending – we aren’t quite there yet!
 
The primary students have begun the story of Jonah.  Jonah wanted to be a good man, but he forgot to listen to God – oh, and he tried to hide from God.  Silly Jonah. We have a beautiful picture book to help us understand this story.
 

On Education:
 
“Nothing in education is so astonishing as the amount of ignorance it accumulates in the form of inert facts.” -  Henry Adams
 
 
“What we want is to see the child in pursuit of knowledge – and not knowledge in pursuit of the child.”  - George Bernard Shaw

Dates to Remember:
 

• January 9th:  Board of Trustees Meeting at 6:00 p.m.
• January 10th: Parent-to-Parent Meeting at 8:00 a.m.
• January 12th:  Education/School Improvement Meeting at 8:00 a.m.
• January 16th:  Martin Luther King Holiday – School is closed
• January 22nd:  Open House for Prospective Parents 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.
• January 26th:  SNOW DAY!
• January 27th:  Teacher Workday/ After Care Fun Day

 
 
Open House on Sunday, January 22nd:

The Retention and Recruitment Committee of the Board of Trustees will be sending home information about this open house – and we would love it if you would share the invitation with parents of children who would be good additions to our school family.  As always, you are our best emissaries, and thank you!
 
Box Tops News:

Kudos to Dana Kimple, our box top mom, for her patience and to all of you who save these pesky rectangles of paper!  Parent-to-Parent has received a check for $150.60 – (this is so many boxtops) Thank you all!
 
Music News:

Mary Monroe is teaching music every Monday in the primary classrooms.  We began this practice when the students were rehearsing for the recital, and it will happily continue for the rest of the school year. A copy of the music program for January is on the reverse of this newsletter if you have a student in the primary.
 
Summer Session: 

We are beginning to make plans for the Summer Session Program, and I always like to ask if there are classes which parents would like us to offer. We cannot promise, but we would love parent feedback about the summer offerings.
 
Spanish News: 

Nilda Borup began teaching Spanish last week for Kindergarten and Elementary students, and the teachers are thrilled (we hope the students are as well!) 
 
Flag News: 

If you noticed the school’s flag was missing – worry not.  The flag had flown for over a year when the big winds last week pulled the flag into shreds.  A new flag is here, and it will be posted by Brian and Zachary Green today.  The old, damaged flag was delivered to the Veteran’s administration for proper disposal.

Dates to Remember:

• December 12th:  Orders for recital DVD’s are due today. 

• December 13th:  Silver and Gold Party 4:00 – 6:00 p.m.

• December 15th:  Primary Recital at 9:30 a.m./Elementary Recital at 6:00 p.m. (there is no aftercare on Dec. 15th)

• December 16th:  Christmas Break begins

• January 3rd:  Students return

• January 17th:  Martin Luther King Holiday – School is closed

• January 22nd:  Open House for Prospective Parents 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.

• January 26th:  SNOW DAY

• January 27th:  Teacher Workday

 
Have you turned in your order for a DVD of the Christmas Recitals? (Christmas stress #173…..)
 
The Gold and Silver Party information is on the reverse of this newsletter if you have not gotten your copy yet.  Please call Karen Baker (638-8407) if you have any questions!
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And last, but never least, God bless us, everyone.  All you have done to prepare for this December celebration is enough. 
 
“May you be overwhelmed with joy.” -  Natasha Williams (Emma’s mom)
 
 “For Christmas I am getting a whole bunch of new choking hazards.” - Jimmy McQuade (age 3)
 
“The really important part of Christmas you can’t wrap.” - Adam Elsharkawi (age 7)
 

Dates to Remember:
 

• December 5th:  Fox’s Pizza Night – sponsored by Parent-to-Parent
• December 6th:  Mommy and Me at 9:30 a.m.
• December 10th:  Jingle Jam from 9:00a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
• December 12th:  Orders for recital DVD’s are due today
• December 15th:  Primary Recital at 9:30 a.m. *no after care on this day / Elementary Recital at 6:00 p.m.

Fox’s Pizza Night is Tonight!  A menu is included in your child’s blue bag for home delivery ideas, or come and join us at the restaurant – everyone is welcome!
 
One Cause.com:  

As you can see from the playground fence, Parent-to-Parent would LOVE for you to remember this website when you are ordering online for Christmas gifts.  By using the Christian Montessori School account code, a percentage of your purchase comes directly back to PTP = painless fundraising.  One Cause bundles such businesses as Land’s End, Orvis, Target, Sears, Best Buy, and so on.  Please check it out!
 
 
Behavioral News:  

At this most wonderful time of the year, our beloved children can occasionally make choices that startle, frustrate, and/or enrage us.  Here’s our handy dandy guide for dealing with seasonal behavior issues (these also work year round):
 

• Effective time outs.  Good rule is one minute for every year of the child’s age.  Time outs allow children and adults to calm themselves, to save face, and to think about what happened.

• Avoid power struggles.  Almost everything can turn into a power struggle – if you let it.

• Remain calm and unemotional in the face of opposition.

• Recognize and praise his good behaviors and positive characteristics.  Be as specific as possible, such as, “I really appreciate the way you helped clear the table tonight.” and “Thank you for picking up your toys.”

• Offer acceptable choices (no more than two or three choices), giving him/her a certain amount of control, i.e. “You may help me by picking up your clothes and putting them in the hamper, or you may help me by making your bed.  Which do you choose?”

• Limit consequences to those that can be consistently reinforced and, if possible, last for a limited amount of time.  “If you don’t get your shoes on, I am not taking you to school today.” is an example of a consequence that is, well, a consequence for you but maybe not for your child.  A better example might be, “You may put your shoes on in the car, or your teacher will help you put them on at school.”

• Model the behavior you want your child to have.

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“Were it not for the shepherds, there would have been no reception.  And were it not for a group of stargazers, there would have been no gifts.” - Max Lucado
 
 
“I once bought my kids a set of batteries for Christmas with a note saying ‘toy not included’.” - Bernard Manning
 

Dates to Remember:
 

• December 5th:  Fox Pizza Night – sponsored by Parent-to-Parent
• December 6th:  Mommy and Me at  9:30 a.m.
• December 15th:  Primary Recital at 9:30 a.m./Elementary Recital at 6:00 p.m.

Weather Alert:  

Please monitor the weather every day in the coming weeks.  Tomorrow the morning temperature will be in the low 40’s – afternoon are in the 60’s.  This is a great time to add long sleeved plain white t shirts under lightweight clothing for extra warmth.  A jacket or sweatshirt is absolutely essential – as we cannot allow children on the playground who do not have these items.
 
Please be sure your child’s name is on the tag of outer garments, and thank you!
 
Recital News:  

All the students are involved in practicing for the recitals coming up in a few weeks.  This promises to be a lovely year of Christmas celebration.  The primary students are performing “Mary Had a Little Lamb”, and both elementary classes are performing “Dude, You Hear What I Hear?”.  
 
Kristine DeGoursey is beginning plans for the decorations of the staging area for the recitals – if you have two hands and a good sense of humor, please call and offer some of your time.  Kristine’s phone number is 230-4648.
 
Spanish News:

A Spanish teacher, Nilda Borup, will begin teaching at the school in January.  Nilda is a native of Peru, and she had lived many years here in Glynn County with her husband and two sons.  Nilda visited the elementary classrooms a week ago, and we are delighted that she will be joining the CMS staff to instruct the students in her native language.
 
Pie Day News:  

The Tuesday before Thanksgiving was chaotic, fun, full of pumpkin and pecans, and the Student Council made about $600 (more details on the profit as the deposits are made).  The profit from this gigantic adventure will be used to buy another moveable alphabet(these cost about $300) for the elementary classroom, and to purchase a camera for the microscopes in the upper elementary classroom.Yay to the elementary students and teachers for their hard (exhausting) work, and to our beloved families who bought the pies! Thank you so much!
 
Collecting:  

Cold weather coats for men, women, or children – bring to the school any Wednesday.

Dates to Remember:
 

• November 14th:  Board of Trustees meets at 6:00 p.m.
  
  

• November 15th:  “How to Insure your Child’s Self-Esteem and Make Them Bullyproof’ – 9:00 a.m.
  
  

• November 22nd:  Mommy and Me at 9:30 a.m.
  
  

• November 22nd: Pie Day! – Fundraiser for Elementary school materials
  
  

• November 23rd – 27th:  THANKSGIVING BREAK (Wednesday – Sunday)
  
  

• December 15th:  Primary Recital at 9:30 a.m./Elementary Recital at 6:00 p.m. ( Wow, is it this time already?!)

 
 
It’s Time:  

Beautifully decorated Thanksgiving Baskets are waiting in each classroom – so please send in your food contribution with a dollar bill taped to the top.  The dollar bills are collected to purchase a turkey or ham for each basket. Your child will love watching the basket fill, and many thanks to Kristine DeGoursey and Margot Cheong for leading this Parent-to-Parent food collection.  We are so very blessed.
 
 
Workshop on Bullying:   

Sidneye Henderson and Dana Duggan will share ideas and strategies this Tuesday morning at 9:00 a.m., and there will be time for questions and conversation. Parents, grandparents, and friends are all welcome to attend this important discussion.
 
 
Mommy and Me:  

This playtime is brought to us by Sandra Sherwood, and is a play/music/craft time for 18 months – 3 years of age children and their, you guessed it, mommies!  There is no cost for this event.  Please come with your toddler and please spread the word!
 
 
Collecting News:  

Janita Nelson is requesting empty 2 litre (soda type) bottles and tin food cans with the labels removed (not empty soda cans for this – have to be able to remove lids.)
 
Warm coats you or your family has outgrown or can no longer use are being collected on Wednesdays here at CMS for donation to the mission church in Brunswick.
 
 
Pie Day News:  

Order forms are in the blue bags today – pecan pies or pumpkin pies are available for $12.  Proceeds will be used to purchase Montessori moveable alphabets and a camera cable for the new microscopes.  Pies will be made and delivered to you on Tuesday, November 22nd.
 
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First Elementary Newsletter!

Dates to Remember:
 

• October 31st:  Pumpkin Carving – all classrooms

• November 3rd:  Chick-Fil-A Night for CMS

• November 4th:  Doughnuts with Dad for Primary Classes – 8:00 a.m.

• November 5th:  Evening Out for Parents at the home of George and Michelle Stewart - 6:30 p.m.

• November 8th:  Mommy and Me at 9:45 a.m.

• November 10th: Doughnuts with Dad for Elementary Classes – 8:00 a.m.

• November 10th: “Race to Nowhere” showing at 6:30 p.m. – Ritz Theatre

• November 11th:  Veteran’s Day Holiday – School is Closed

• November 14th:  Board of Trustees meets at 6:00 p.m.

• November 15th:  “How to Insure your Child’s Self-Esteem and Make Them Bullyproof’ – 9:00 a.m.

 
TIME CHANGES THIS SATURDAY EVENING AT MIDNIGHT...FALL BACK ONE HOUR!
 
 
Honoring a Teacher News:  

Janita Nelson is the CMS honoree for the annual Chamber of Commerce event celebrating teachers who have done an exemplary job.  Janita is the art teacher for the elementary students here at CMS, and she is tireless in her work to provide meaningful creative experiences for the children.  As the work of the students is displayed throughout the school, the range and variety of activities offered in art class become visible.  Janita teaches the students art, and she has also taught all of us who work here the essential value of this curriculum.  Janita Nelson is our 2011/2012 Teacher of the Year.
 
 
First Friday News:  

Please call Karen Baker (638-8407) if you can help at a table in front of the True Vine and Gourmet Shop this Friday evening. The table will have CMS literature and promotional materials for the “Race to Nowhere” movie.
 
 
Anti-Victim News:  

I met with Amelia Stewart, Clara Hankins, and Grayson Good last week, because they were sorting out a conflict which had arisen during lunch time.  After everyone had a chance (well, lots of chances) to say everything about which they were thinking, they agreed they could, indeed, remain friends.  Amelia said, “I understand now.  Clara helps everyone calm down.  I help everyone feel better, and Grayson solves the problem.”
 
I do not think I could have said this better myself.  
 
Resolving issues through dialog, listening, and reaching consensus is a life-long need, and when learned, a life-long skill.  We believe in this process at CMS, and if you are curious, please come to the in service on November 15th.  We will talk about this together, and you will be glad you came.  It does not matter how old or young your child is – this conversation is for everyone.

Dates to Remember:

• October 24th – Fox’s Pizza Night! (tickets in the bags today)

• October 24 – 27th: School Picture Days

• October 31st: Pumpkin Carving – all classrooms

• November 4th: Doughnuts with Dad for Primary Classes – 8:15 a.m.

• November 5th: Evening Out for Parents at the home of George and Michelle Stewart

• November 8th: Mommy and Me at 9:45 a.m.

• November 10th: Doughnuts with Dad for Elementary Classes – 8:00 a.m

• November 10th:“Race to Nowhere” showing at 6:30 p.m. – Ritz Theatre

• November 15th: “How to Insure your Child’s Self-Esteem and Make Them Bullyproof" 9:00 a.m.

Chilly Mornings News:

Please be sure your child brings a lightweight jacket or sweater to school every day now. Because all uniforms look alike (gee, who knew?!) it would help so much if you put your children’s names inside their jackets and sweaters. Thank you!


Microscope News:

The school has received over $1000 in donations from a pharmaceutical company for the purpose of supporting the upper elementary science program. These funds were raised by Dr. Abraham Cheong (Alexandra’s dad), and we are so very excited to announce that three microscopes will be on their way to Mrs. Zimmerman’s classroom in the next few days. The microscopes will have the capability of projecting the view of the slide onto the screen of a television or computer for all the students to see and study together.


School Pictures:

Blue polo shirt with white logo and khaki from the waist down are required dress for picture days. Classroom moms will be here to help with combing hair, buttoning buttons, and tucking in shirts.

For our youngest students, picture day can be a completely discombobulating change of morning schedules - which results in anxiety, which quickly becomes panic and anger. Here’s a gentle solution: Lay all clothes, shoes, and socks etc. out the night before, don’t talk much about picture day, and bring your child to school on time = peace like a river.

If your child is older, please ask him/her if they would like to take their own brush or comb to school for last minute touch ups.

The Schedule:

• Monday, October 24th: Mrs. Ferguson’s Classroom
• Tuesday, October 25th: Mrs. Moseley’s Classroom
• Wednesday, October 26th: Ms. Bushway’s Classroom
• Thursday, October 27th: Mrs. Zimmerman’s Classroom

Wedding News:

We are happy to announce that Mandy Crowley and Mark Toolan were quietly married on October 14th. Mandy is our After Care Teacher, and Mark is the fabulous painter who has single handedly made all the walls of the school such a lovely color. Mark and Mandy have known each other for some time, and we rejoice in their happiness.



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Dates to Remember:
 

• October 17th:  Mary Monroe begins primary student music program,  Board of Trustees meets at 6:00 p.m.
• October 18th:  Mommy and Me 9:30 – 10:15 a.m.
• October 20 and 21st:  Teacher and Parent Conferences, Students do not attend school on these days
• October 24 – 27th:  School Picture Days
• October 28th:  Pumpkin Patch Visits – all elementary
• October 31st:  Pumpkin Carving – all classrooms
• November 4th:  Doughnuts with Dad for Primary Classes – 8:15 a.m.
• November 5th:  Evening Out for Parents at the home of George and Michelle Stewart 
• November 10th:  Doughnuts with Dad for Elementary Classes – 8:00 a.m.
• November 15th:  “How to Insure your Child’s Self-Esteem and Make Them Bullyproof’ – 9:00 a.m.

 
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Invitation News:  

You should have received the invitation to the Montessori party on November 5th.  Please r.s.v.p to the school’s e mail to let us know your plans.  This will help you avoid pesky phone calls from our beloved classroom moms who will worry your invitation was lost in transitJ
 
 
First Foundation News:  

This foundation supports the work of local author, Joyce Blackburn, who died several years ago.  Joyce Blackburn wrote many children’s books, and she called St. Simons home. The foundation has donated several of Ms. Blackburn’s books to CMS, and this week copies of Suki were donated for each of our third grade students.
 
 
Pumpkin Patch News:  

The United Methodist Church here on St. Simons has invited the elementary students to come and choose their class pumpkins.  Lower and Upper Elementary will choose pumpkins for their respective classrooms, and they will choose a pumpkin for each of the primary classrooms.  The pumpkins will be delivered by the elementary students to Mrs. Moseley’s and Mrs. Ferguson’s classes, along with a discussion about several pumpkin facts.  
 
 
Pumpkin Day News:  

On Monday, October 31st, dads will visit each classroom to carve the pumpkins.  If you are available to help take pictures of this event, please let me know.  We need four photographers from 8:00 – 8:45 a.m.  Pictures are for the yearbook and the school website.  THANK YOU!
 

Conference News:  

The conference schedule is complete for this week.  All conferences take place in your child’s classroom, and Ms.Crowley is happy to have primary students camp out with her for awhile so that parents may attend meetings.  Elementary students may bring books or games and stay in their respective classrooms during the meetings. And this thought will shock you:  No children are permitted on either playground without their parent.  
 
 
 
Music News:  

Mary Monroe is offering classes in piano and voice.  For additional information, please call Mary at 996-3561.

Dates to Remember:
 

• October 12th:  Prospective Parent Open House 9:00 – 11:00 a.m.
• October 13th:  Parent-to-Parent  and Uniform Swap 8:15 a.m.
• October 17th:  Mary Monroe begins primary student music program
• October 18th:  Mommy and Me 9:30 – 10:15 a.m.
• October 20 and 21st:      Teacher and Parent Conferences, Students do not attend school on these days
• October 24 – 27th:      School Picture Days
• November 5th:  Evening Out for Parents at the home of George and Michelle Stewart, Invitations coming home today.

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Teacher and Parent Conferences: 

After Care will be open and available for primary students during the time parents are attending conferences.  Elementary students may bring a book and read in their classroom or in the Gathering Room library during the conference.
 
 
Prospective Parent Open House and Mommy and Me Program: 

Many thanks for spreading the word for both of these important events! And special thanks to Sandra Sherwood for sponsoring the Mommy and Me days!
 
 
Halloween News: 

Please read the “What About Halloween?” letters in your child’s blue bag today, and thank you for helping us keep the days ahead relatively calm for your angel children. Peace like a river….or a pumpkin….or a milky way bar…..
 
 
Uniform News: 

Another important letter in the bags today is the “cold weather” additions to the uniform policy.  Please read carefully and call if you have any questions.  It does not seem as if it will ever get truly cold, but one day soon some arctic air will come our way (we promise!).
 

The Chess Team may order “Chessmasters” shirts for their upcoming competitions.  These orders should be in by Tuesday, October 11th – please call Karen Baker if you have questions about these shirts.
 

The Upper Elementary students have written a persuasive letter requesting that they be allowed to add purple as a color choice for uniform shirts.  This color has been added and is for upper elementary students only (privilege of being the oldest and wisest).
 

Fire Truck Visit: 

Station 4 on Frederica Road visited the school on Thursday morning.  Primary students met Firefighter Smith, heard the siren, sat in the big green truck, and had a wonderful time learning about a firefighter’s gear.  Special thanks to Cristy Kavanaugh for arranging this visit.
 
 
Gentle Reminder News: 

Before this happens this school year, please remember that fast food (i.e. Chic-Fil-A, Burger King, McDonald’s) should not be brought into the school for students at lunch time.  The presence of these items upsets every other child who does not have fast food, and thus its presence creates much hurt feelings.  Thank you for thinking about this, and please know, the teachers do not consume fast food or sodas in front of students either.  We love your children!
 
 
Speech Screening News: 

Amy Fritchman has completed all requested speech screenings.  Information about the screenings for primary students will be coming home to parents next week.  Teachers will also have a copy ready for parent conferences.
 
 
Christian Education News: 

Pastor Paul will begin the story of Noah’s Ark with the primary students this week, and we will begin by talking about how Noah listened to what God asked.  Lower elementary students will hear the parable of the Foolish Rich Man.  These stories have captured the imagination of our first and second grade students, and we hope you will let your child share their thoughts with you this week.  Upper elementary students saw and smelled (wow!) authentic Frankincense and myrrh last week, and they discussed the gifts the wise men brought to the nativity.

PLEASE JOIN US!

Christian Montessori School
OPEN HOUSE

Wednesday, October 12, 2011
9 am ~ 11 am

- Come and see excellence in education
- Meet our director
- Watch the classrooms in action
- Tour the school
- Learn how Montessori education can benefit
your children and your family

Lord of Life Christian Montessori School
111 Menendez Avenue, Saint Simons Island

Different by Design!

Scholarships and tuition assistance available

For more information, call 912.638.1692
or visit our website at www.montessori.me

Dates to Remember:
 

• October 10th:  Columbus Day – School Holiday
• October 12th:  Prospective Parent Open House 9:00 – 11:00 a.m.
• October 13th:  Parent-to-Parent Coffee and Uniform Swap 8:15 a.m.
• October 17th:  Mary Monroe begins primary student music program
• October 20 and 21st:  Teacher and Parent Conferences, Students do not attend school on these days
• October 24 – 27th:  School Picture Days
• November 5th:  Montessori Evening Out for Parents

 
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Teacher and Parent Conferences: 

These conference days in October are set aside so that teachers may give you undivided attention regarding your child’s academic and social journey at the school.  Please find the conference registration sheets in your child’s blue bag or backpack today.  The phrase “The early bird gets the worm” was coined for conference sign ups – the sooner this is returned to the school, the better the chance you will get the time slot you most desire.    
Please be sure to sign your name to the conference time request.  This important detail allows us to match the time request to a student = yay!
 
A confirmation for your request should come home the day following your turning in the conference request.  If you do not receive a confirmation, please contact your child’s teacher immediately, because lack of confirmation means there is a problem.
 
 
Welcome to Mrs. Green: 

Mrs. Ferguson’s class is growing, and Sara Green has joined the room as the teacher assistant.  Mrs. Green has been supporting this class since the beginning of the year, so she is a familiar face here at the school, and, her other claim to fame is that she is the proud mother of Zachary Green in our first grade. Mrs. Green is also completing the component of classroom experience for her training for Montessori certification.
 
 
October 12th News: 

A flyer about the Open House being hosted by the Board of Trustees is in the blue bags today.  Please share this information with a neighbor or a friend who is considering the gift of a Montessori education for their child, and thank you for helping us spread the word!

Dates to Remember:
 

• October 3rd – 14th:  Primary Speech Screening
• October 10th:  Columbus Day – School Holiday
• October 12th:  Prospective Parent Open House
• October 13th:  Parent-to-Parent Meeting and Uniform Swap 8:15 a.m.
• October 24 – 27th:  School Picture Days
• November 5th:  Montessori Evening Out (we are posting this early to allow time to get a sitter)

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E-Mail News:  

The e-mail address for the school is shenderson@montessori.me  Please use this address when communicating with us – and thank you!
 
Speech Screenings:  

Amy Fritchman will conduct individualized speech screenings with each child enrolled in the primary program.  A letter about Mrs. Fritchman and this process will be in the blue bags today.  
 
The evaluations will be done here at the school site, in our new Student Center room, and a complete report will be sent home to each primary parent by Monday, October 17th.  Screenings for primary students are paid for by the school, because we recognize the strong connection between speech ability and the acquisition of reading skills.
 
If your child is in elementary and you would like to have his/her speech evaluated, please call Mrs. Fritchman so this can be scheduled.  
 
 
Christian Education News:  

Pastor Paul is talking with the primary children about talking to God.  They have decided that praying and singing are two ways we talk with God.  The children have learned the words to the “Johnny Appleseed” song, and “Where Do We Pray”.
 
Lower elementary students are studying the parables.  Last week they considered what happens to our seeds of faith if the seeds are planted on rocks or in weeds, and we also considered what makes the soil around a seed of faith rich in nutrients.  This week we are considering the story of the Good Samaritan, and we will talk about how easy it is to love those who are loveable, and how hard it is (sometimes) to loves that are unloveable.
 
Upper elementary is studying the book of Matthew.  The students have met King Herod, which gave us an opportunity to talk about why a King would fear the son of God, and we have learned more about the wise men and the angels who appeared to Joseph in his dreams.
 
Renovation News:  

The renovation of the Conference Room is now complete (yahoo!).  Many thanks to Lyn Good and the talented parents who donated their time to make this possible.  Our attention has turned now to the Student Center (cubicle room for tutoring) – a rug and chair cushions have been added, and the windows of the cubicle have been frosted for privacy.
 
We are still having an echo issue in the room, so the wall of the cubicle that adjoins my office will be upholstered to match the wall in the Conference Room.  This solution to noise is very economical, and we are hoping it will solve the problem.
 

Prayer Support, Please:  

Janita Nelson, our art and yoga instructor, has been called back home to South Africa because her father is gravely ill.  Jonathan Currier, Lilly’s dad, has been deployed to Afghanistan and will be gone for a year.  Coach Ware is recovering from his heart surgery.
 
Please support these families with prayer.

Dates to Remember:

• September 20th:  Primary Parent Evening 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
• September 21st  Peace Day Celebration at 9:00 a.m.
• September 23rd:  Teacher Workday – Primary Students do not attend school, Elementary Students attend until noon
• October 10th:  Columbus Day – School Holiday
• October 13th:  Parent-to-Parent Meeting and Uniform Swap 8:15 a.m.
• October 24 – 27th:  School Picture Days
• November 5th:  Montessori Evening Out (we are posting this early to allow time to get a sitter)

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Picture Days:  

Individual and class pictures will be taken in late October.  Here is the schedule:

Monday, October 24th:  Mrs. Ferguson’s class

Tuesday, October 25th:  Mrs. Moseley’s class

Wednesday, October 26th:  Ms. Bushway’s class

Thursday, October 27th:  Mrs. Zimmerman’s class

On picture days, students should wear their navy blue polo shirts with the school logo in white.  Students also wear khaki from the waist down, and shoes do show in our school pictures.  There will be a make-up day scheduled in the event of inclement weather or illness.  Classroom Parents will assist with moving children from the classroom to pictures and back to classrooms on these days.

September 23rd Fun Day – is full.  Ms. Crowley will be sending confirmations to all registered families.

Primary Parents:  

Classrooms will be open on Tuesday evening and the teachers will share information with you about your child’s learning.  This evening is for adults, and we will begin at 6:00 p.m. and conclude before 7:00 p.m.  See you there!


E-Mail News:  

The e-mail address for the school is shenderson@montessori.me  Please use this address when communicating with us – and thank you!

Montessori children learn discipline by practicing discipline, not by having the teacher tell them to be disciplined.  They are naturally self-motivated because they are free to choose their own lessons at the moment they are ready to learn those lessons.  These students are not trained to wait for a teacher to motivate them.  They have long attentions spans because every day they practice concentrating on work for extended periods of time, not just until the bell rings.  These students are decisive because they make decisions for themselves. They are respectful because they are respected.  They are active learners and active participants.”

Excerpted from Montessori Madness by Trevor Eissler

Dates to Remember:

• September 13th:  Elementary Yoga Class Begins
• September 15th: Elementary Art Class Begins
• September 17th:  SCHOOL WORKDAY – 8:00 a.m. – Noon
• September 20th:  Primary Parent Evening 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
• September 21st  Peace Day Celebration at 9:00 a.m.
• September 23rd:  Teacher Workday – Primary Students do not attend school, Elementary Students attend until noon
• September 23rd:  FUN DAY 8:00 a.m.

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A Little Help News:

The School Workday scheduled for this Saturday will begin at 8:00 a.m. (when it is nice and cool), and it will conclude at about noon.  The work around the school includes washing windows (yay!), pressure washing, trimming landscape, spreading mulch on the playgrounds, moving a compost box to a sunnier place, fixing a rain barrel, and even more fun-filled stuff.  
 
Miss Crowley will open After Care for students who will play, watch a movie, eat a snack together.  There is no cost for After Care if you come to work.  See you on Saturday!
 
 
Picture Days: 

Individual and class pictures will be taken in late October.  Here is the schedule:
 
-Monday, October 24th:  Mrs. Ferguson’s class
 
-Tuesday, October 25th:  Mrs. Moseley’s class
 
-Wednesday, October 26th:  Ms. Bushway’s class
 
-Thursday, October 27th:  Mrs. Zimmerman’s class
 
 
On picture days, students should wear their navy blue polo shirts with the school logo in white.  Students also wear khaki from the waist down, and shoes do show in our school pictures.  There will be a make-up day scheduled in the event of inclement weather or illness.  Classroom Parents will assist with moving children from the classroom to pictures and back to classrooms on these days.
 
 
Safety First News:

A phone has been placed in the After Care Classroom so that the buzzer for the front door intercom can be heard clearly by the teacher.  Also, when parents call the school after school has ended, but prior to 6:00 p.m., the phone will be answered by, oh yes, a human being.
 
 
E-Mail News: 

The e-mail address for the school is shenderson@montessori.me  Please use this address when communicating with us – and thank you!
 
 
Wounded Warrior News: 

The elementary students chose The Wounded Warriors Foundation to be the recipient of proceeds from their bake sale last Friday night.  The Student Council is pleased to announce $200 has been raised for the cause.  Annalise Miller and Keeta Moore gave a beautiful presentation explaining the work of this foundation at the picnic.

 
The Picnic:

Just the best ever!  We had a great crowd attend and everyone seemed to enjoy the food, the well-organized event, and the beautiful decorations.  Many thanks to Kristine DeGoursey, Shenon Badre, Margot Cheong, Natasha Williams, Michelle Stewart, and Paige Peck for creating this evening, and for all the hands who helped make it a success.  

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“We adults are so familiar with traditional schooling (the system used in both public and private schools) that it is almost impossible to imagine anything different.  We spent years being told what, when, and how much to learn, when to stand, when to sit, when to eat, when to go to the bathroom, and of course not to talk at any time.
 
As a result, we think the best way to learn is to let others, the experts, tell us everything they know.  We assume if we repeat back what they say, we’ll be smarter.
 
However, the deeper we peer beneath the surface of the traditional classroom, the more evident it is that our children are learning to parrot, not to think. What about all the additional lessons traditional school have accidentally taught – dysfunction, lack of discipline, lack of motivation, indecision, disrespect, and passive learning?”

- excerpted from Montessori Madness by Trevor Eissler

Dates to Remember:

• September 7th:  Chess Club Begins
• September 9th:  Patriot’s Day Picnic 5:00 p.m.
• September 13th:  Elementary Yoga Class Begins
• September 15th: Elementary Art Class Begins
• September 17th:  SCHOOL WORKDAY – 8:00 a.m. – Noon
• September 23rd:  Teacher Workday – Primary Students do not attend school; Elementary Students attend until noon
• September 23rd:  FUN DAY 8:00 a.m.

Dates to Remember:

• Monday, September 5th:  Labor Day Holiday
• Friday, September 9th:  Patriot’s Day Picnic 5:00 p.m.

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Hurricane News: (it must be August in southeast Georgia).  We are keeping an eye on Hurricane Irene which is projected to come our way this weekend.  No definite projected path at this point however, so we will keep you posted.

School Directory and Class Lists:  Will be coming home on September 6th.  This gives us time to update phone numbers and add new student’s names.  When the directory comes home, please check your vital information – and correct if necessary.  

Welcome News:  On Sunday, July 10th, Maxwell Stephen Williams came into the world.  He is the proud younger brother of Emma Williams and Gavin Williams.   We have seen Max in car line already, and we thank the folks who kindly brought meals to the Williams family – even though it was the middle of summer.  God bless this family, and we are so glad Max has arrived safely (and adorably).

What’s New at CMS?: First of all, and most importantly, we have added some new staff. Leigh Ferguson has opened a primary classroom as the lead teacher, and Maureen Redington is joining Mrs. Moseley’s classroom as her assistant.  

- Mandy Crowley has become the director and lead teacher of the After Care/Extended Care program.

- Barbara Ryner’s office has moved across the front foyer, and her previous office space has become a private space for tutoring and student counseling. Barbara is thrilled to have walls and a door to close when it gets too noisy, and both students and parents will be happy for a private confidential space to meet.

- The room that used to be the library is being renovated in the next few weeks, with a new table, fabric on the walls, a tiled floor, and recovered chairs.  

All of the renovations completed and the changes to come are thanks to Lyn Good’s vision for the design and appearance of the school.  She has dedicated hundreds of hours and most of her peace of mind to this transition, and she has done an amazing job.

And, special kudos goes to Mark Toolan, who has fastidiously and beautifully painted the primary classrooms, and who will be moving forward to paint the Activity Room soon. Mark is a painting genius and his work is flawless.

Wellness News:  The school staff is using Shaklee products now.  We will try these products for a few more weeks to determine their effectiveness on germ and dirt control.  Shaklee products are less disturbing to the environment, but more importantly, they do not dispense harmful fumes or particles into the air for young lungs to breathe.  We will keep you posted about this grand experiment, and we hope parents and students alike can breathe a little easier!

Physical Education:  Coach Ware will return to teach physical education to all of our students next week on August 30th.  Please help ensure your child wears appropriate footwear for P.E. on Tuesdays.

Christian Education:  Pastor Paul returns to teach on Tuesday, September 6th. No special footwear is needed (tee hee), but Pastor’s visits remind us about how very much God loves us all.  Can’t wait!

The very best part of today was seeing the smile of every angel child.  

How very blessed we are to welcome you back to the school!