March 2024 Newsletter

CEDAR HILL PREPARATORY SCHOOL

March Newsletter

Read Across America

www.cedarhillprep.com | 1

Read Across America Inspire Reading Read Across America is more than just about reading; it’s about fostering connections, sharing stories, and nurturing a lifelong passion for the written word. Students from grades 3-8 visited the lower school classes and captivated the children with fascinating stories!

Seeing the sheer delight on the faces of our younger students as they listened attentively to every word was truly heartwarming. Let’s continue to spread the joy of reading and exploration throughout our school community and beyond. As per tradition, students adorned Dr Seuss hats and paraded around the lower school building, expressing their love for reading.

March Newsletter 2 | January Newsletter

PRESCHOOL--KINDERGARTEN KINDERGARTENNEWS NEWS PRESCHOOL Growing Green In our Reduce, Reuse, Recycle study, preschoolers embarked on a journey to understand the importance of daily Earth stewardship, beyond just Earth Day. They explored various methods of environmental conservation, from planting flowers to conserving water and proper waste disposal. Parents contributed “garbage,” which the children creatively re-purposed, collaborating with middle school students to craft a train and two robots using boxes, fruit cups, bottles, and egg cartons.

The pride in their creation was evident. Weekly discussions and activities further reinforced concepts of recycling, reducing waste, and reusing materials, including sorting images of different recyclables and crafting their own recycling truck with colored paper shapes, symbolizing their commitment to a cleaner, happier Earth.

Magical Moments: St. Patrick’s Day Fun at CHP At CHP, everyone became Irish for the day! Preschoolers, prekindergarteners, and kindergarteners joined in a spirited parade around the school, bedecked in shamrock hats, green attire, and festive necklaces, while playing lively instruments. Our merry procession even included a visit to the middle school, where students joined in the festivities. Upon returning to our classroom, the children were surprised to find it in disarray – toys strewn about, chairs overturned, and even the toilet water turned green! It was evident that mischievous leprechauns had paid us a visit. Though Chloe’s clever leprechaun trap didn’t succeed, the children discovered delightful surprises left behind by our elusive guests: bubbles, gold, and a lollipop for each child. Turns out, the leprechaun’s antics brought unexpected joy to our St. Patrick’s Day celebration after all!

Exploring Pet Care: A Hands-On Experience in Preschool In preschool, we explored the wonderful world of pets and discussed how to care for different kinds of animals that may live in our homes.

Some of our classmates proudly shared that they had fish, dogs, and cats as their beloved companions. This year, Chloe excitedly brought in her pet fish, offering her peers the chance to observe and even feed it each morning throughout the week. As part of our activities, the children crafted their fish bowls, complete with gravel and swimming paper fish, learning firsthand about the responsibilities that come with pet ownership. Our classroom received an extra dose of excitement when Matthew’s mom surprised us with their turtle named Nugget and adorable baby chicks. Each child eagerly had the chance to experience the softness of the chicks, adding to our delightful exploration of pets and their care.

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PRESCHOOL - KINDERGARTEN NEWS Pre-Kindergarten 100th Day A Day of School Spirit and Counting Fun! On March 1st, our Pre-Kindergarten class joyously marked the 100th day of school. In honor of this milestone, our students showcased their school spirit by coloring delightful 100th-day pictures and proudly posing with their posters. We engaged in skip counting from 10 to the grand number 100. The students thoroughly enjoyed these activities, and we eagerly anticipate witnessing their continued growth and success throughout the rest of the year!

Egg-Citing End to March Amidst the anticipation of spring break, the PreK students at Cedar Hill Prep School kicked off their holiday with an egg-stravagant egg hunt. Dressed in their colorful and creative attire, the little ones eagerly gathered on the school grounds, ready for a morning of delightful surprises. With baskets in hand and excitement in their eyes, the PreK students embarked on their egg-citing adventure. From hiding spots beneath bushes to secret nooks behind trees, every corner of the schoolyard became a potential treasure trove for these eager egg hunters.

100th Day of School There was much excitement on Friday, March 1st, as the Kindergarten students celebrated the 100th Day of School! After eagerly counting down the days with tally marks, the children learned about place value along the way. Each child’s 100 Day presentation was proudly and beautifully showcased in front of their peers and captured on video. The designs were incredibly creative and inspiring. Throughout the day, the children engaged in various 100-day activities, including exercises, taking 100 steps outside, and counting to 100 by 1s, 2s, 5s, and 10s. It was a day filled with joy and learning for everyone at Cedar Hill Prep! Happy 100th Day of School!

4 | March Newsletter

PRESCHOOL--KINDERGARTEN KINDERGARTENNEWS NEWS PRESCHOOL Pre-Kindergarten Leprechaun Magic The Pre-Kindergarteners enthusiastically participated in the festive and musical St. Patrick’s Day parade, much to the delight of the middle schoolers and the school Principal. Our hallway was adorned with an array of good luck charms and all things green. Additionally, the children crafted a clever trap in hopes of catching the mischievous Leprechauns, but alas, their efforts were in vain! However, the magic truly came alive when the little ones discovered bubbles and gold coins left behind by the elusive Leprechaun.

Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day at Our School!

Every year on March 17th, the celebration of Irish culture comes alive with parades, dancing, special foods, and a sea of green. This year, our Preschool, Pre-Kindergarten, and Kindergarten children joined in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade festivities! As we marched through the Middle School building, Middle School students cheered us on with waves and high fives, and even our Principal joined the fun! Taking the parade outdoors added to the excitement, where a surprise visit from a mischievous leprechaun left our classrooms in a delightful disarray. But fear not, for the leprechaun left special treasures tucked into the children’s shoes! It was a magical experience! The children showcased their creativity by crafting leprechauns through coloring, cutting, and gluing. Shamrocks were carefully colored and cut out, and pots of gold were adorned with vibrant hues. Happy St. Patrick’s Day to all!

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PRESCHOOL - KINDERGARTEN NEWS Magical Moments: Pre-Kindergarten Story Time on Ramadan!

We were delighted to welcome Mr. and Mrs. Hanif, parents of one of our Pre-K students, for a special visit! They enchanted our classroom with the magic of Ramadan through a captivating book-reading session. Our students eagerly immersed themselves in the world of “Curious George and Ramadan” alongside them, sparking joy and curiosity throughout the adventure! It was a delightful blend of fun and learning! A heartfelt thank you to Mr. and Mrs. Hanif for sharing the essence of Ramadan with us!

Egg Hunt The Kindergarten children had a delightful “Welcoming Spring Celebration.” Each child received a basket brimming with vibrant grass. What a thrilling day to venture outdoors for an Easter Egg Hunt!

Every child discovered numerous eggs filled with surprises! Welcome, everyone, to the joy of spring!

Poetry Day Delight The atmosphere buzzed with excitement on Poetry Day as the children eagerly embraced the spirit of the occasion. To celebrate Poetry Month, the kindergarten classes united to present recitations of poetry to their parents and peers. Additionally, they performed a delightful, specially chosen song.

Notably, eighteen kindergarten students bravely recited their own original poems, showcasing the emphasis Cedar Hill Prep places on developing public speaking skills.

6 | March Newsletter

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL NEWS ‘Wild’ Adventures at CHP! Rizzo’s Wildlife World recently brought a wild experience right to our doorstep at CHP! Our 1st and 2nd graders embarked on a thrilling adventure as they had the unique opportunity to meet some fascinating creatures up close. From slithery snakes to majestic turtles and even a daring tarantula, our young explorers were spellbound by the wonders of the animal kingdom. The room buzzed with excitement as the children gazed in awe at these magnificent creatures. It was an unforgettable wildlife show that not only entertained but also educated our students about the importance of respecting and appreciating all creatures, big and small. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Rizzo’s Wildlife World for igniting the spark of wonder and curiosity in our children and for creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Celebrating Ramadan and Eid First Grade was honored to welcome two special guests: Haleema, Ibrahim’s mom, and Naima, Omar’s mom, who visited our classroom to enlighten us about Ramadan and Eid. Both moms graciously shared insights into the various aspects, prayers, foods, and traditions associated with these important occasions. They captivated our attention with engaging stories, facilitated two delightful crafts activities, and generously gifted us with goody bags filled with treats, including mouthwatering donuts. The experience was highly educational and enjoyable, and it’s safe to say that the 1st graders had an absolute blast.

Exploring and Creating First graders engaged their social studies and map skills, as well as their science and social skills while working in small groups to design Zoo Maps.

These maps will not only showcase their understanding of geography and animal habitats but also foster teamwork and creativity. In addition to mapping out the zoo, the students will collaboratively set prices for admission, enhancing their understanding of economics and decision-making processes.

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ELEMENTARY SCHOOL NEWS

1st Grade’s Poetic Showcase In a delightful showcase titled “Potpourri of Poetry,” the first-grade class embarked on a journey through verses celebrating nature’s beauty and the essence of growing up. Each young student embraced the challenge of memorization, delivering their chosen poems with earnestness and flair, all the while clutching their exquisite illustrations that breathed life into their words.

As the audience marveled at the poetic prowess of these budding wordsmiths, they were in for an unexpected treat—a collective surprise awaited them in the form of a group poem titled “See You Later Alligator,” a whimsical farewell crafted by the entire class.

Nature’s Verse Grade 2 students celebrated the beauty of nature and its wonders on Poetry Day with an enchanting showcase of poetic talent and artistic creativity. Against the backdrop of fluttering leaves and chirping birds, these young wordsmiths took center stage to recite heartfelt verses inspired by the natural world.

From odes to towering trees to ballads dedicated to buzzing bees, each poem illuminated the profound connection between humanity and the environment. With unwavering enthusiasm and endearing innocence, the students transported the audience on a lyrical journey through meadows, forests, and beyond.

8 | March Newsletter

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL NEWS St. Patrick’s Day Extravaganza On Friday, March 15th, third graders donned their green attire. They delved into the significance of Saint Patrick to Ireland’s heritage, learning about his cultural importance. In the afternoon, their creativity flourished as they crafted Shamrock ornaments, four-leaf clover flower pots, leprechaun bobbleheads, and St. Patrick’s Day bracelets. The students relished discovering St. Patrick’s legend, including the famous tale of driving snakes out of Ireland. To sweeten the festivities, they indulged in delightful ‘green’ cupcakes and cookies. The spirit soared as they captured moments with classmates and teachers in spirited snapshots.

Super Students Nyle illuminates our classroom with his zest for learning. He confidently portrays himself as a skilled mathematician, showing a strong affinity for all things math-related. In his free time, he delights in gaming with friends and spreading laughter. He dreams of a unified global community, where cooperation fosters peace and connectivity among individuals, shaping a harmonious world.

Mythili's commitment to academic excellence shines through her unwavering dedication and insatiable thirst for knowledge. Always respectful and deeply focused, she actively participates in classroom activities and diligently completes her assignments. Beyond her academic pursuits, she discovers happiness in activities such as tennis, swimming, and playing the piano, showcasing a rich tapestry of talents and interests.

O'Hara Gray's commitment to academic excellence radiates through her tireless efforts and unyielding thirst for knowledge. Fearless in her approach to learning, she views mistakes as stepping stones toward growth and eagerly seeks clarification when necessary. Her warm and respectful demeanor fosters a positive learning atmosphere for both peers and teachers alike.

Aarush consistently demonstrates his eagerness to assist friends and actively participate in group discussions. His unwavering determination sets him apart as a standout member of the class.

Possessing a profound fascination for mathematics and science, Aarush epitomizes the ethos of curiosity and innovation, thus enriching our classroom community with his valuable contributions. www.cedarhillprep.com | 9

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL NEWS Embracing Nature’s Classroom On a beautiful sunny morning, third graders eagerly followed their teacher for an outdoor math class. Taking advantage of the pleasant weather, students engaged in a hands-on weight activity at the picnic benches. They relished the opportunity to learn academic concepts amidst the fresh air and natural surroundings. As the days grow warmer, we eagerly anticipate more outdoor math and science classes to further enrich our educational experience.

Third Graders Embrace Chalk Art Collaboration As spring draws near, anticipation builds among the students for a myriad of exciting activities. One particular activity that has captured the imagination of third graders is the opportunity to express their creativity with chalk.

Enthusiastically, they adorn the sidewalks with vibrant designs, eager to share their masterpieces with the entire school community. Fostering a spirit of camaraderie, they generously share chalk supplies and frequently collaborate, enhancing both their artistic skills and their sense of unity within the school.

‘Salt in His Shoes’ Reading Enthralls Third Graders Third grade had the pleasure of welcoming Christian’s parents, Mrs. Sherine Byrd and Mr. Keith Byrd, who treated them to a captivating reading of ‘Salt in His Shoes - Michael Jordan in Pursuit of a Dream’ by Deloris and Roslyn M. Jordan.

This heartwarming and inspirational tale chronicles Michael Jordan’s journey to becoming a basketball legend, as narrated by his family members. Amidst challenges, Michael’s parents imparted invaluable lessons on the traits of a champion: patience, dedication, and hard work. It’s a story of faith, hope, and the power of familial support in realizing one’s dreams. The students were enthralled by the animated reading by Christian’s parents. A heartfelt thank you for sharing such an inspiring book with us!

Exploring Natural Hazards: Student Collaboration and Presentation Students embarked on a collaborative group project focused on exploring environmental phenomena with the potential to impact societies and the human environment, namely natural hazards. They delved into extensive research on various natural hazards, including hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, and earthquakes.

Each student took responsibility for different facets of the project, contributing their unique insights and findings to create comprehensive posters. The culmination of their efforts came to fruition during their engaging presentations in class, where they shared their knowledge and insights with their peers.

10 | March Newsletter

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL NEWS Middle Schoolers Inspire Third Graders with Mathematical Fun! Middle schoolers brought the excitement of Pi Day to the third-grade classroom with a special visit. Celebrated on March 14th (3/14), Pi Day honors the mathematical constant π, with the date corresponding to the first three digits of this infinite number. From college students to rocket scientists, math enthusiasts worldwide mark the occasion with various activities and celebrations. The middle schoolers organized a range of engaging activities related to Pi Day, sparking enthusiasm among the third graders.

One highlight was creating bracelets using specific color coding corresponding to the digits of Pi. It was a memorable and educational experience for all involved. A heartfelt thank you to the middle schoolers for bringing Pi Day festivities to us!

Word’s Worth: Poetry Day for Third Grade at Cedar Hill Prep!

On Tuesday, March 26, our scholars embarked on a poetic journey, diving into the whimsical world of renowned author Jack Prelutsky. Laughter echoed as Third Graders recited verses filled with wit and charm, discovering the magic of rhyme and rhythm.

Poetry isn’t just words on a page; it’s a ‘heart art,’ a vessel for sharing emotions and experiences through the power of language. Through poetry, our students learn to express themselves, finding solace in verse and celebrating their triumphs.

Join us in celebrating the beauty of poetry as our young writers explore their innermost thoughts and feelings, harnessing the therapeutic power of words to navigate life’s journey.”

www.cedarhillprep.com | 11

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL NEWS Grade 4 is All A-Flutter with the Coming of Spring!

March has been a very busy and fun-filled month for Grade 4! The month began with Read Across America.

Keeping with tradition, Grade 4 was thrilled to put on their Dr. Seuss hats and visit the Kindergarten classes to read a selection of Dr. Seuss books to their Kindergarten friends. Then, Grade 4 enjoyed being read to by some of our Middle Schoolers. Thank you to Skylar Biddle, Grade 8, for visiting Class 4A and Daanyal Ghafoor & Colton Bristol, Grade 5, for visiting Class 4B! You made it a totally fun-filled experience!!!

Before we knew it, we were adorned in green as we celebrated St. Patrick’s Day. The day’s activities included crafting St. Patrick’s Day ornaments and then cheering on the Preschool and Pre-K students as they marched in their St. Patrick’s Day parade!

To commemorate the beginning of Ramadan, we painted or naments and listened to a story about Ramadan. Thank you to Isra, Eesa, and their families for sharing this tradition with us!

Grade 4 celebrated two March birthdays as one more 4th grader was welcomed into the “Double Digit Club” along with a “Double Digit Club” veteran. Happy Birthday wishes for Dylan Lee upon his 10th birthday…and for Mrs. Gadaleta!

Many of our 4th graders qualified to take part in the Regional Finals of the International Academic Competitions’ Geography, History, and Science Bees. These competitions began this winter and will continue towards the middle of April. Of the Grade 4 students who participated in the online or Princeton Regional Finals, many have already qualified to advance to the National Finals and International Finals! Congratulations to ALL for your participation and success! After the April Regional Finals, we will announce all of the CHP students who qualified to advance to the National Finals and International Finals!

12 | March Newsletter

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL NEWS Arnav Makes a Splash at Junior Metro Championships!

We're thrilled to share the outstanding performance of Grade 4 student Arnav at the recent Junior Metro Championships! Making his debut at just 9 years old, Arnav showcased exceptional talent and determination in the pool, participating in challenging events such as the 100 Free, 100 Fly, 200 Free Relay, and 200 IM Relay. The Junior Metro Championships stand as the pinnacle of swimming competitions, drawing talent from across states like NY, CT, RI, and MA before advancing to Regional Championships. Arnav's qualification for this esteemed event is a testament to his dedication and skill.

Grade 4 Poetry Day Grade 4’s Poetry Day presentations highlighted poems that are reflective of the American landscape. The students researched their respective poets and wrote introductions for their poems.

These narrations provided the audience with some insight as to why the students selected these poems, while others chose to provide insight into the lives and motivations of these poets. Each poetry recitation was highlighted by the students’ original artwork that reflected the messages within their poems. Congratulations 4th graders for your wonderful performances!

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MIDDLE SCHOOL NEWS CHP Academic Team Shines Bright at NAQT Competition In February, our academic competition team showcased their prowess at the NAQT (National Academic Quiz Tournament) held at the Middlesex County Academy for Science. Covering a diverse array of topics including Math, Science, Geography, History, Literature, Current Events, Sports, and Pop Culture, our CHP Academic Team demonstrated exceptional knowledge, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Led by team captain Sahith Mangu, alongside Meghana Indupuru, Deetya Tandon, Aditi Prabhakaran, and Vishnu Badhan, they exhibited remarkable decorum and made us proud with their outstanding performance. Way to go, team!

Fifth Grade Scientists Take on Oil Spills: A Lesson in Environmental Awareness In fifth grade this month, our young scientists embarked on an intriguing experiment: cleaning up an oil spill! While the spill may have been small in scale, its impact was profound. The objective was to determine the most effective materials for cleaning up oil on water. As the students observed, the oil floated on the water’s surface, contaminating everything it touched, including sand, shells, and feathers. They discovered that cotton balls proved to be the least effective, while paper towels lacked durability. However, the sponge emerged as the most efficient, with its high saturation point and intricate nooks and crannies effectively trapping the oil. Following the cleanup, we connected this smallscale experiment to larger environmental issues, discussing the devastating effects of oil spills on our oceans. Through videos depicting the spread of oil and its impact on coastlines, students gained a sobering understanding of the consequences of environmental negligence. This lesson was far from insignificant—it served as a wake-up call for our students, transforming their perception of oil spills and fostering a newfound sense of environmental responsibility. In the world of science, surprises abound, making learning both rewarding and enjoyable.

Exploring Planetary Cores: A Sweet Adventure in Science In grade six science this month, students embarked on a delightful exploration.

The objective? To uncover the mysteries of a planet’s core without the need for astronauts to touch down on its surface. With covered cupcakes as our simulation models, we delved into the world of science. First, we meticulously planned where to insert clear straws into the cupcakes to mimic core samples.

Then, we extracted these samples and meticulously recorded our observations.

The results were nothing short of surprising! Following our observations, we hypothesized about the cross-section of the cupcake’s interior. With eager anticipation, we sliced the cupcake in half to reveal the cross-section. While it didn’t perfectly align with our hypotheses, it came remarkably close. The experience was not only educational but also incredibly fun as we explored new avenues of scientific inquiry.

Naturally, we celebrated our discoveries by indulging in rainbow cupcakes while documenting our conclusions. Our budding scientists demonstrated exceptional dedication and curiosity throughout the experiment, reaffirming the joy of discovery in the field of science.

14 | March Newsletter

MIDDLE SCHOOL NEWS Building a Sustainable Rain Garden In the dynamic realm of rain gardens, 7th-grade students at CHP recently embarked on an exploratory journey to assess the slope for their forthcoming rain garden project. Fueled by curiosity, determination, and a fervent appetite for STEM education, they meticulously measured a 100-inch stretch within their designated rain garden area. Armed with a trusty tape measure and string, the students meticulously gauged the elevation difference, uncovering a variation of 9 inches. The adept mathematicians among them swiftly computed this variance as a 9 percent slope. Recognizing the criticality of proper drainage, the students determined that they needed to excavate their rain garden approximately 8 inches deep to ensure optimal functionality. This hands-on encounter not only refined their measurement and STEM proficiencies but also instilled a profound sense of environmental stewardship as they endeavored to construct a sustainable and efficacious rain garden.

Rising Star Siblings Awarded Gold Prize!

Zahra (Grade 8) and Zinnia Shirley (Grade 5) have been honored with the Gold Prize at the Rising Talent Festival 2024! Their exceptional talent has earned them a coveted spot to showcase their skills at The National Opera America Center this April. Stay tuned for an unforgettable performance from these rising stars!

Click to Watch Zahra Audition Click Watch Zinnia Audition

Students Shine on National Pi Day! Nine exceptional students from grades 6-8 showcased their mathematical prowess by participating in a memorable challenge: memorizing the decimals of pi. Meghana Indupuru astounded us all by mastering decimal 360, while Ayan Joshi impressed with a remarkable performance reaching over 340 decimals. Their dedication and enthusiasm for mathematics truly shone through, making this Pi Day celebration an inspiring success! Let’s continue to foster a love for math and numbers among our students. www.cedarhillprep.com | 15

MIDDLE SCHOOL NEWS Success in Debate: Cedar Hill Prep Shines at March 23rd Meet Cedar Hill Prep Debate students participated in their third Debate Meet on March 23rd, 2024. The topics included: (1) Human Cloning should be banned at the National Level (2) The United States must adopt the metric system (3) Law Enforcement cameras do more harm than good (4) Home schooling is better than traditional schooling Cedar Hill Prep School won 2nd place in percentage wins. There were 50 teams and 145 speakers!

Congratulations to the following Cedar Hill Prep Teams and Speakers for winning tournament awards.

Third Place Sixth Place Seventh Place Tenth Place

Winning Teams Team Arjun Kalapala, Ethan Sanbeg, and Ayan Joshi Team Aakash Mehta, Nitara Baruah, Sophia Lai Team Aarnaa Desai, Kimaya Desai, Noah Evans Team Ayven Patel, Saarth Gupta, Arsh Dandona Top speakers in the Tournament Third Place Sixth Place Seventh Place Eighth Place Ninth Place Tenth Place

16 | March Newsletter

Noah Evans Ayan Joshi Revant Jear Sophia Lai Sahith Mangu Nitara Baruah

MIDDLE SCHOOL NEWS A Science Adventure on Pi Day! Is this a Math class? No, it’s Science! Science is all about experimentation and discovery. Pi Day exemplifies this perfectly. Our Grade 6 science students embarked on a journey to explore Pi through various sizes of circles, using mini marshmallows, regular-sized marshmallows, and even jumbo ones! Through meticulous calculations, they uncovered that each circle came remarkably close to Pi. What’s even more intriguing is their insightful reflections on why they didn’t achieve an exact Pi measurement, but only approached it. Kudos to our aspiring scientists for their outstanding work!

A Day of Experiential Learning at NJIN Farm On a radiant day at the NJIN farm, fifth and sixth graders from CHP embraced the outdoors with enthusiasm and curiosity. Surrounded by the serene beauty of nature, they immersed themselves in a day of experiential learning, guided by the principle that hands-on experiences are paramount to education. Interacting with the majestic horses, the students discovered the profound connection between humans and animals, learning valuable lessons in empathy and communication.

As they brushed the horses' mane and felt the rhythm of their movements, they forged bonds that transcended mere observation. At CHP, where experiential learning is paramount, this excursion to the NJIN farm embodied the essence of education—an immersive journey where knowledge is not merely acquired but deeply felt and understood. As the students returned, their hearts brimming with newfound insights, they carried with them the enduring spirit of exploration and discovery.

Exploring Fire Creation and Cultural Understanding On March 26, 2024, during the fire by friction lesson at NJIN, students delved into the physics underlying fire creation, grasping the fundamental equation of Force + Friction = Fire. As they endeavored to ignite fires through friction, they gained firsthand insight into the challenges portrayed in Jack London’s “To Build a Fire.” Much like the story’s protagonist, they grappled with the formidable task of sparking flames in unforgiving conditions, learning the value of perseverance and resourcefulness in surmounting natural obstacles.

The session also fostered a connection to social studies, spotlighting how Native Americans utilized bow drill kits for fire starting, imbuing the lessons with historical context and cultural significance. Moreover, students augmented their understanding by engaging in creative writing exercises, and cultivating their creativity by responding to poetry and short story prompts in their farm journals. www.cedarhillprep.com | 17

ART

SPECIALS

Spring Blossoms Spring has sprung at our Lower School as our budding artists dive into vibrant hues and creative expressions! From colorful blooms to chirping birds, our talented art students are bringing the spirit of spring to life through their delightful coloring and artwork. Stay tuned for a burst of creativity that celebrates the beauty of the season!

Nature’s Canvas: Exploring Shapes and Movement in Mixed-Media Grade 8 students are currently engaged in the creation of a large mixed-media drawing, which incorporates shapes inspired by the natural world—trees, land animals, sea creatures, insects—as well as depictions of foods and people. The diverse shapes, ranging in size and direction, are surrounded by vibrant, random patterns and geometric designs. Executed on a 12 x 18 canvas, the entire project features unified black outlines. Oil pastels are utilized to emphasize the shapes, while colored pencils provide sharp contrast for the various backgrounds. The piece exudes movement, with objects appearing to “float.” Through this dynamic work, students explore numerous Elements of Art and Principles of Design, adding depth and excitement to their artistic endeavors.

Familia Fun: Exploring Spanish Family Trees Second-grade kids add excitement to Spanish family lessons with this engaging project! Students craft a visual representation of their family tree and write descriptions of family members in Spanish. This activity is a fantastic way to foster the development and assessment of presentational and writing skills. Keep up the excellent work, 2nd grade!

A French Culinary Adventure Grade 8 French students dived into food preparation, exploring fruits, vegetables, and French cooking. They created recipes, filmed ‘Le Gâteau à l’ananas’ (Pineapple upside-down cake), and enjoyed an authentic French dining experience at Sophie’s Bistro. A flavorful journey through French culture!

18 | March Newsletter

DRAMA

SPECIALS

Celebrating the Seas: Triumphs of ‘Finding Nemo Jr.’ The Drama Department’s Spring Musical, “Finding Nemo Jr.,” proved to be an unequivocal triumph, enchanting audiences of every generation with its vibrant tale of friendship and resilience. The enchantment commenced in January with the inception of rehearsals, igniting a journey filled with magic and dedication. From the initial read-through to the culminating dress rehearsal, an unmistakable spirit of camaraderie and fervor permeated the ensemble. With consummate skill and boundless passion, the talented cast breathed life into each character, delivering poignant performances that left a lasting impact on all who attended. As the final curtains closed and thunderous applause filled the air, it became evident that our rendition of “Finding Nemo Jr.” was not merely a showcase of talent but a testament to the collaborative prowess and transformative influence of the arts—a true triumph in every sense of the word.

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WILDCATS SPORTS Lil’ Cats Sports Training Begins April!

Get ready to unleash your child’s inner athlete with Lil’ Cats Sports Training starting this April! Our program offers a dynamic blend of multisports and conditioning, where children will engage in various drills and exercises to enhance their skills and fitness levels. From agility training to teamwork-building activities, every session promises a fun and rewarding experience. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to see your little ones thrive in a supportive and active environment!

Empowering Communities through Life-Saving Skills Aarushi Gupta and Aarna Rao, alumni of the Class of 2022 from the CHP program and the pioneering group to attain certification in American Red Cross Adult/Pediatric CPR/AED/First Aid under the guidance of Coach Frankie, revisited CHP with a request.

They approached Coach Frankie seeking recertification, as their current high schools didn’t offer such training or certification.

Both emphasized the significance of their ARC certification in securing summer employment and recognized it as a crucial life skill. Coach Frankie, proud of their achievements, gladly agreed and urged them to maintain their ARC certifications regularly.

The Class of 2024 has recently obtained certification in American Red Cross Adult/Pediatric CPR/AED/ First Aid, following the footsteps of previous CHP alumni. They will soon join other alumni in sharing this invaluable experience with the community.

20 | March Newsletter

AROUND THE SCHOOL Memorable Evening Family Fun Night ignited joy and laughter as parents and kids came together for an evening of unforgettable memories! From karaoke showdowns to friendly competitions, every moment was filled with fun and excitement. Laughter echoed through the halls as families bonded over games and shared experiences.

Thank you to everyone who joined us for this incredible night of togetherness and making cherished memories. Here’s to many more evenings of laughter, love, and connection!

International Academic Competitions Update Once again, Cedar Hill Prep’s students in grades 4 through 8 have been well represented at the Regional Finals of the International Academic Competitions. From December through March, a majority of our students who participated in the online and in-person Regional Finals of the Geography, History, and Science Bees have become Finalists and are qualified to advance to the National Finals of their respective Bees! Some of these students have also qualified to advance to the International Competitions of these Bees!

CHP is thrilled to announce that among these students, First, Second, and Third Place awards were earned in several of the students’ respective Bees. After the April in-person Regional Finals, we will announce all of the CHP students who will be advancing to the Nationals and Internationals.

Congratulations to our Cedar Hill Prep students who have participated in the Regional Finals…and best wishes to those who are registered to do so!

Springing Forward with Mr Seeley!

We’re excited to share the highlights of our recent Pizza with the Principal event! Students and families gathered for a delightful evening discussing their Spring Break plans and gearing up for an eventful break. Laughter filled the air as we exchanged stories and shared excitement for the festivities ahead. From planning egg-cellent hunts to exploring fun-filled activities, it was a joyous occasion filled with anticipation for the spring season.

Grades 1 - 2

Grades 3 - 4

Preschool - Kindergarten

Grades 5 - 8

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CHP EDUCATION AND RESEARCH FOUNDATION

SAVE THE DATES

PARENT TEACHER ORGANIZATION

April 20 | Spring Market May 7

| Teacher Appreciation

May 17 | 20th Anniversary Celebration June 11 | Grades 7 and 8 Dance

Purchase Tickets

22 | March Newsletter

PTO MEETING VOLUNTEER MEETING APRIL 7th MARCH May 2nd 7th 7:00 pm 7:00 pm on Zoom

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Poetry Day (Preschool and Pre-Kindergarten) Teacher Appreciation Day Science Fair (Grades 5 - 8) Spring Concert (Preschool - Grade 8) CHP 20th Anniversary Celebration Gala Showcasing Classrooms Junior Olympics/Field Day

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SAVE THE DATES

April

April

Junior Olympics/Field Day (Rain Date) Water Play Day Celebration of Achievements Elementary School (Grades 1 - 3) and Middle School (Grades 5 - 7) Grades 7 and 8 Dance Graduation Ceremonies: Kindergarten and Grade 4 Grade 8 Awards Dinner Grade 8 Graduation

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Staff Birthdays Happy Birthday to Donna Pizappi, Cheyanne Daniel, and Carol Gadaleta who celebrated their birthdays in March!

www.cedarhillprep.com | 23

152 Cedar Grove Lane Somerset, NJ 08873 Phone: 732-356-5400 Fax: 732-356-5409 Email: admissions@cedarhillprep.com Web: www.cedarhillprep.com

Educating Students Since 2003

24 | March Newsletter

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