CONNECTIONS CAMPUS
A REFLECTION OF FALL 2024
As the vibrant colors of fall fill the air, it's a perfect time to reflect and appreciate all that makes Cedar Crest Academy such a special place. This season brings a renewed sense of energy, community, and connection, and we are excited to share the latest happenings and highlights from our school with you.
Our campuses Bellewood, Park Highland, Redmond, and Northup are buzzing with excitement as students dive into new subjects, collaborate on creative projects, and explore the world around them From hands-on science experiments that spark curiosity to inspiring art classes that encourage self-expression, the joy of learning is alive and well in every corner of our school. Every day, our students are discovering new passions, challenging themselves, and making meaningful connections with each other.
As we approach the holiday season, we celebrate not only our academic achievements but also the rich cultural traditions that make our community so unique. Together, we are creating lasting memories that will shape the experiences of our children for years to come.
We look forward to an exciting season ahead and wish you all a joyful start to the upcoming holiday festivities. Thank you for being a part of our vibrant Cedar Crest Academy family!
Farm-tastic Adventures: Preschoolers Explore Farm Life
BY BECKY HICKS, REDMOND
Our preschool program emphasizes fun and learning through hands-on activities, and the Farm unit is no exception! Children explore what a farm is, the role of a farmer, and the animals and crops that make farms so special. This unit is a great way to engage all five senses sight, sound, touch, smell, and taste. A favorite activity is the milk taste test, where kids get to sample regular, chocolate, and strawberry milk
children are not only strengthening their muscles and coordination but also using their imagination to make the learning experience come alive
Our teachers are experts at turning every lesson into an opportunity for both fun and development. By seamlessly integrating fine and gross motor skills into their activities, they encourage growth and learning in creative ways. Whether it's getting their bodies moving with farm animal yoga or “shearing sheep” (removing shaving cream from a laminated sheep with a craft stick),
At the end of the unit, all our preschoolers come together for a fun-filled hoedown party. Children rotate through various farm-themed stations, mingling with classmates from other rooms, making new friends, and celebrating everything they’ve learned over the past two weeks Stations include activities like building a farm, sorting farm animals, and playing milk carton ring toss The children also enjoy "herding chickens" (catching yellow balloons with butterfly nets) and tossing rubber ducks into the pond. This event is a joyful celebration of learning, full of smiles, laughter, and handson fun!
Discovering Bellevue: Fourth Graders Explore the Rich History of Our Hometown!
BY DEBORAH CUNNINGHAM, BELLEWOOD ELEMENTARY
Our fourth graders recently had the opportunity to step back in time with a walking tour of historic Bellevue, hosted by the Eastside Heritage Center. This engaging experience allowed them to connect with the history of the community surrounding our Bellewood campus, offering a deeper understanding of how the past has shaped the present As they explored the area, students were encouraged to imagine a time before the bustling streets, modern office buildings, and busy shoppers when dirt roads and quaint homes dotted the landscape.
One of the biggest surprises for the students was learning that the Bellevue Mall, a familiar landmark, was once a strawberry field. They were equally amazed to discover that the park where many of them play today had once been home to numerous buildings that had been torn down to make way for the green space. Overall, the students thoroughly enjoyed learning about our local history On a crisp fall day, the walking tour provided an interactive and memorable learning experience, helping them better understand the rich history of the community around them.
Student Council Superstars: Inspiring Change & Sparking Fun!
Excitement abounds with our Student Council, led by Assistant Director Mr. David Sauter. This year ’ s campaigning process has undergone a refreshing makeover, with candidates recording their persuasive speeches in advance for an enhanced viewing experience. The elected Council Members have already hosted two successful Popcorn Friday events and launched The Osprey Gazette Students are being introduced to valuable practical skills, such as crafting engaging interview questions and learning how to balance a budget. So, what’s next on the horizon for the Student Council? More opportunities to empower student voices! Stay tuned to learn more...
All About Me: A Journey of Growth & Self-Discovery in Early Childhood
BY BRUNETTA BANDA, PARK HIGHLAND & BELLEWOOD PRE-PRIMARY
Starting in preschool and continuing through kindergarten, students engage in an "All About Me" activity each year, offering a fun and meaningful way to explore their identities As they grow, the activity evolves, deepening their selfawareness and helping them recognize their unique qualities and strengths. From creating self-portraits and building family trees to designing "All About Me" bags, this theme provides a rich canvas for creativity, skill development, and confidencebuilding.
The "All About Me" theme is also an essential part of supporting students' transition into school, encouraging selfexpression, reflection on their personal lives and communities, and the development of public speaking skills. It’s an opportunity for each child to celebrate their individuality and share what makes them special with their peers.
Self-portraits are especially exciting, allowing students to reflect their diverse body types, skin tones, and hair colors This activity is an ideal way to promote the values of diversity, equity, and inclusion, helping ensure every student feels seen, heard, and valued. What makes it even more impactful is the opportunity for students to present their projects to the class, sparking conversation and fostering connections among peers.
Through these activities, children not only gain a deeper understanding of their own identity, but also learn to appreciate the unique traits that make each of their classmates special It’s a wonderful way to nurture empathy, mutual respect, and a strong sense of community within the classroom.
Plush Politics: The Great Library Election at Northup
BY HEATHER SHAPPELL, NORTHUP
Each presidential election year, it is a tradition for the Northup campus, formerly Kirkland, to hold its own election. This year, we decided to elect one of the plush book character duos from our library shelves as the President and Vice President of our Library.
Campaigning kicked off in October, featuring a presidential float that paraded through hallways and classrooms, introducing the students to the candidates. In the weeks leading up to the election, teachers engaged students by reading the characters' stories in class, while also educating them about the voting process. Kindergarten students even created their own voter registration cards These activities not only nurtured a love for literature and reading among the students but also provided teachers with the opportunity to teach about democracy in an age-appropriate way.
On Election Day, each student visited the Official Polling Place to cast their vote in a voting booth. After completing their ballots, they placed them into the Official Ballot Box and received an “I Voted” sticker to wear with pride. At the end of the day, a nonpartisan parent volunteer counted the votes and sealed the results in an envelope The entire school gathered for an assembly to learn the outcome together.
Students jumped for joy as the Gerald and Piggie plush toys gave the presidential wave to their adoring crowd. Through this process, we learned the value of coming together as a community and respecting differing opinions. Most importantly, we learned that while the outcome may not always align with our hopes, the act of participating in the process itself is what truly matters.
Continuity in Education: How Re-enrollment Supports Long-Term Achievement
BY KRISTY JOHNSON, DIRECTOR OF ADMISSIONS
Re-enrollment for the 2025-2026 school year opens this January, offering an exciting opportunity to plan for your child’s next step. As families evaluate their options, key factors like class sizes, academic programs, and extracurriculars come into play. But for those already part of the Cedar Crest Academy community, overall satisfaction often tips the scales At Cedar Crest, it’s not just about what students learn, but how they learn and grow, making the decision to continue here feel like the natural next step.
For Arun Thirupathi, whose son attended Cedar Crest from Preschool through his 5thgrade graduation last year and whose daughter is now in Pre-Kindergarten, staying at Cedar Crest has always been about more than just academics "Cedar Crest has amazing teachers," Arun says "They’re loving and guide the students on each Character Pillar. They understand the kids and help them grow. " It’s this deep level of care and commitment that has made Cedar Crest feel like home for his family.
Dhivya Vijaya Kannan also values the emphasis on character development at Cedar Crest, especially the positive impact it’s had on her 4th-grade son. “We love Cedar Crest Academy as they focus not just on academic development but on the overall character development of the kid. My son always looks forward to going to school. The teachers and faculty know each and every kid and provide individual focus and care ”
Dhivya’s experience highlights how Cedar Crest fosters a nurturing environment where children are supported not only academically but in becoming confident, well-rounded individuals.
As you consider re-enrollment for the 20252026 school year, we look forward to continuing your child’s journey with Cedar Crest Academy We’re excited to keep your family connected to the caring, collaborative culture that makes our school special, and together, we’ll support your child’s growth in the years ahead.
Little Steps, Big Gains: Nurturing Independence in Young Minds
BY LINDA THELIN, PRE-PRIMARY PROGRAM SUPERVISOR
As parents, it’s natural to want to help our children whether out of love, affection or simply to keep the day moving. However, giving them the chance to tackle things on their own allows them to build crucial self-help skills, make decisions, and solve problems. With each success, they gain confidence, resilience, and a stronger sense of self-worth, preparing them to take on even bigger challenges
The earlier you encourage independence, the more equipped your child will be to navigate school life with confidence and resilience. Here are a few practical tips from teachers on how to foster these skills:
Promote self-help skills by teaching daily routines and giving your child the time to do things themselves.
Build confidence by assigning age-appropriate chores, like loading laundry or wiping down the table
Encourage resilience by allowing your child to tackle challenging tasks and praising them for sticking with it. Support growth by letting them make mistakes and talking through how they can improve next time.
Foster problem-solving by asking guiding questions when your child is facing a struggle.
Encourage decision-making by offering limited choices
Next time you feel the urge to step in whether it’s putting on their coat, cleaning their room, fixing their project, or preventing a mistake pause for a moment. Consider the life skills and independence you hope they’ll carry into adulthood, and encourage them to take that next step on their own.
Voices United: Celebrating English & Your Native Tongue
BY SHIVANI, DIRECTOR OF MARKETNG & COMMUNICATIONS
At Cedar Crest Academy, we are committed to supporting our students' journey as they develop essential reading, writing, and speaking skills. As our young learners embark on the exciting adventure of mastering their ABCs and building early literacy foundations, it’s important that we work together as a community to enhance their English-speaking abilities.
One of the best ways families can support their child’s language development is by embracing English while on campus and during school-related conversations This is a fantastic way for our kids to practice their speaking, improve their sound blending, and build their confidence in communicating. Each time you use English in these contexts, you create a supportive environment where they can thrive!
We also celebrate the beauty of your native tongue. Your family's language is an essential part of your cultural identity and should be cherished. We wholeheartedly encourage you to continue practicing your mother tongue at home However, when discussing school matters, incorporating English can be a game-changer! It not only reinforces the importance of language learning but also shows your child that you ’ re cheering them on in their journey to master English. Your support means the world to them.
Thank you for being such an integral part of our Cedar Crest Academy family. Together, let’s empower our students to flourish in their language skills and confidence!
If you have any questions regarding English Language Learning and how to support your family or your child through the process, please feel free to reach out to your Campus Director
JOIN US FOR OUR ANNUAL OPEN HOUSES!
Join us on Saturday, November 16th for our annual Open Houses this year, happening at all four campuses on the same day! Register at one location, but feel free to visit any of our campuses to explore our unique programs and vibrant community We look forward to welcoming you! Click HERE to register today
@cedarcrest.academy
STAY CONNECTED THROUGH INSTAGRAM
Get a sneak peek into our vibrant school community by following us on Instagram! From classroom highlights and exciting events to behind-the-scenes moments, our feed is filled with inspiring content. See how we ' re making learning fun, fostering connections, and creating lasting memories for our students.
Don’t miss out – scan the QR code and follow us today!
PARENT EDUCATION AT YOUR FINGERTIPS
We are thrilled to announce our new collaboration with ParentMap, offering all Cedar Crest families exclusive, free access to their 12-part ParentEd web series! This incredible series features a lineup of expert speakers covering a wide range of topics on parenting, child development, and family life. Whether you ' re looking for advice on navigating school years, managing screen time, or fostering emotional well-being, these resources are designed to support and inspire parents Be sure to take advantage of this amazing opportunity to learn from some of the best in the field at no cost to you! Ask your Campus Director for the promo code
8 WAYS TO ENCOURAGE THANKFULNESS
As Thanksgiving approaches, it's a great time to focus on fostering gratitude in our kids Research from Harvard Health shows that practicing gratitude is linked to increased happiness, better resilience in tough times, and stronger relationships qualities we want to nurture in our children throughout the year.
Cedar Crest Spotlight
Cedar Crest Spotlight
