Schoolhouse News Comparing Numbers
Kindergarten students counted and compared numbers using manipulatives this week! They paired up in groups of two using bear manipulatives to count and compare numbers. This lesson taught students about number sense, making comparisons, utilizing fine motor skills and taking turns. A MESSAGE FROM MR. MCMANUS Confession- I am a bit of a Marvel Universe junkie. This is known to a few students who have figured out that one of the best ways to get Mr. McManus to slow down when he is running to and fro on campus is to talk about Dr. Strange. Right now, I have a weekly check-in with a fifth grade friend about Marvel’s “What if?” series, in which the characters and stories (some of which I’ve been reading/watching since I was 10) are mixed up and reimagined. “What If?” spins tales of the bad guys winning, best friends splintering, and chaos reigning supreme. The twists are enjoyable because the core stories are so deep and grounded. We enjoy the thrill because we know it’s safe. When our children feel safe and connected to the adults in their lives, they become more resilient to the unexpected twists life promises to deliver. A New York Times parenting piece last month highlights this foundation as the first step to strengthen the reserves and adaptability of children. As we continue our year-long theme of “connection,” I am excited about all the ways families and the school community are coming together.
We’ve had a great turnout for our opening of the year events. Parent’s night, our first MSCA meetings, our new family coffees, and full conference schedules attest to the engagement we know helps our children. Let’s keep it going! There is a lot of resilience and strength we take from one another as adults as well, and our modelling makes a significant impact on our kids. October is full of additional opportunities to get involved and connect with one another. Please remember that when your child is attending chapel you are welcome as well.
Of course, not every schedule allows for visits and volunteering on campus. We know our network of support and connection extends well beyond the school day to conversations around dinner tables, on car rides, and in other community and family activities. As educators we know these things are happening because we see students who are eager to learn and ready for incremental, greater challenges in and outside the classroom. Because they feel secure with all of us behind them, resilient students are ready for the “what ifs?” They are ready for us to raise the bar so they can reach higher.
In closing, a personal request for one more way to “connect” with us. This month we will also share our “Connect and Ignite” invitation for the Annual Fund. When you see it in your mailbox, I hope you will join me in making a contribution. Every gift truly counts, no matter the size. Our focus this year is to achieve a high participation rate from members of our community. The dollars make a real difference, for sure, but even more impactful is what it communicates about our collective commitment. That’s why I and our teachers and staff give, too. We also know that many hands make light work and our power when we are connected is always greater than any one of us alone.
I hope to see you on campus! I’m always ready to discuss “What If?”! UPDATES AND REMINDERS Uniform Update It has come to our attention that several Lands' End uniform items are still on backorder, including the fleece jacket. Due to this situation, in addition to the fleece jackets we are going to allow Lower School students to wear Montgomery sweatshirts while inside. Montgomery sweatshirts also remain part of the Middle School uniform. We want our students to be comfortable on colder days until families can successfully order the fleeces. Remember that as the temperatures get colder, please send in this extra layer (fleece jacket or Montgomery sweatshirt), with your child's name labeled clearly on the inside tag.
The MSCA will be launching a new online spiritwear store in the coming weeks. Watch for details in Schoolhouse News!
Student Portrait Orders due October 15th Don't forget to order your child's portraits by this Friday, October 15th! If your child's photo was retaken this week, please keep an eye out on your inbox for an email from Little Nest Photography for proofs and the new ordering deadline. THIS WEEK Monday, October 11 Faculty Professional Day - NO SCHOOL
Saturday, October 16 Practice ISEE Exam (8th Grade) 8:30 - 11:30 AM On Campus A practice ISEE exam will take place for all 8th grade students on Saturday, October 16th. The test begins at 8:30 AM; students should arrive no later than 8:00 AM. COMING UP Monday, October 18 Gresh Memorial Golf Classic Applecross Country Club - Downingtown, PA It's not too late to register! Join us for a fun day of golf and/or dinner in support of Montgomery School!
Friday, October 22 Breast Cancer Awareness Pink Day In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Montgomery School will be hosting Pink Day on Friday, October 22nd. To participate in the fight against breast cancer, we are asking students to donate $1 and wear their favorite pink shirt, socks, hair accessory, shoes, and more! Proceeds will be donated to Unite for HER, a local organization that provides complementary care to women fighting breast cancer.
Friday, October 22 Trick or Trunk 6:00 - 7:00 PM NURSE'S CORNER Request for COVID-19 Vaccination Cards If your child has been vaccinated, please provide us with a copy of the completed vaccine card for our records. Copies can be emailed to Mrs. Forbes or placed in an envelope labeled with your child's name and dropped off in the Farmhouse. MSCA & COMMUNITY NEWS Winter Uniforms at The RACK Winter uniforms begin on Monday, November 1st. Be sure to stop by the Rack for items your child may need. View the School Uniform Policy for details.
Save the Date! Epicurean Garage Dine Out October 27 Mark your calendar for Wednesday, October 27 for a Dine Out at Epicurean Garage in Chester Springs! Look for details in next week's issue of Schoolhouse News! RESOURCES Upcoming Events
Athletics Calendar
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