JAN. 2024 | VOL. 9
LOWCOUNTRY PREPARATORY SCHOOL
EST. 1995
THE LOWER SCHOOL NEWSLETTER Creating Holiday Memories & Traditions WRITTEN BY MCKENNA BARCLAY. 3RD
“I have a memory from kindergarten. One day we had a Christmas party and one of (the) things we did was we watched a movie called Elf. It was so funny. We all had hot coco and other treats. It was so fun. We watched it in boxes from home with pillows, stuffed animals, and blankets. It was super duper cool. My favorite part of the movie was when buddy ate the spaghetti. And that is a memory I will never forget.” WRITTEN BY JULIENNE TERENZI, 3RD
“A special holiday memory was when me, my mom, my dad, and my brother put on matching pajamas and went to look at Christmas lights together.” WRITTEN BY TURNER MESSIMER, 3RD
“One day on Christmas Eve I was baking cookies for my dad and mom. I was baking the cookies with my aunt and my parents loved them. So now it’s a tradition with me and my family. It is so much fun! Maybe you should try.”
Traditions
Teacher Spotlight - Susan Parsons LOVE ALL THINGS LITERARY
Susan Parsons has been a dedicated pillar of education for the past seven extraordinary years. Serving in multiple roles such as librarian, resource, and aftercare teacher, Susan has not only cultivated a haven of knowledge but has also illuminated the path for students and colleagues alike. Her resilience and determination in the face of challenges set a standard of excellence that inspires us all. Beyond her professional prowess, Susan's compassionate and caring nature defines her character. A beacon of support and understanding, she has garnered the respect and admiration of colleagues who seek her wisdom and warmth in equal measure.
“It's not just a room filled with books; it's a sanctuary where curiosity is sparked, imaginations are ignited, and the seeds of lifelong learning are planted.”
Dream
My classroom go-to music
for my students I would love to take my students on a field trip to a plantation. South Carolina's plantations hold a special place in my heart, and I
My go-to music is anything that is calm and soothing. I like to create a tranquil and relaxing environment that provides an atmosphere for reading enjoyment.
believe this experience would be both educational and enlightening for students. It's not just about a visit; it's about providing my students with a living history lesson.
What would be my Superpower to enhance my teaching? I would choose the ability to instantly understand and cater to each student's unique learning style. This superpower would enable me to adapt my
Fun or unique fact about Me
teaching methods, materials, and approaches to suit the individual needs of every child in my classroom. By doing so, I could create a learning environment, ensuring that no child would struggle with reading or any other subject.
Mrs. Parsons, has a passion that extends far beyond the classroom. Before her days shaping young minds, she was a barrel racing dynamo in the equestrian world!
A memorable classroom moment "There's a moment," she reflected, "when a child starts to unravel the mysteries of reading. It's like watching a light bulb flicker to life, Illuminating not just words on a page, but a world of possibilities."
Favorite Color: Seafoam green Favorite Flower: White roses Favorite Candy: Dark chocolate Favorite Restaurant: Franks/Outback/Perrones
Teacher Spotlight - Kendall Thornton ART TEACHER EXTRAORDINAIRE
With a rich background in Visual Art, Kendall brings a wealth of experience, having spent a decade inspiring middle school students and four years igniting the creative spark in elementary school. Kendall's journey into the world of education took a unique path, starting with an Undergraduate Degree in Mass Communications with an emphasis in Broadcast Journalism from Reinhardt
"Art has the power to inspire creativity, foster imagination, and ignite a passion for learning.”
University. After five years in Christian Radio as an On-Air host and News Anchor, her true calling led her to pursue a Master of Fine Art and Education from the University of Tennessee, marking the beginning of her teaching career. Last year, Kendall and her family, including her husband Peter of 17 years and their now 3rd grader, Cosette, made the move from Chattanooga, Tennessee, to the charming Murrells Inlet. Beyond the art studio, Kendall finds joy in spending time with her loved ones, running, creating her own works of art, and exploring new places. As a valuable addition to the Lowcountry staff, Kendall is excited to witness the beauty that will unfold through the artistic expressions of our students throughout the year.
Dream for my students
My classroom go-to music I usually turn on
I would love to take my students to the Louvre
the Classical Goes
and Uffizi Museums. Both museums hold
Pop station for my
some of the world's oldest and most beautiful
students to listen
works of art. It’s a true experience to see those
to while they work.
works in person.
What would be my Superpower to enhance my teaching? I think I would love to duplicate myself so I could
Fun or unique fact about Me
get around to each student
Back in my college days, I was
have an extra set of hands
a rower on a female four
to get things accomplished
lightweight crew team. But
faster.
who needed help faster. It would also be helpful to
that's not all – I added a dash of cheer to my college experience by donning the cheerleader cap.
A memorable classroom moment I took my former students on a Fine Arts trip to New York City over the course of six years. Each trip was so special to see the look on each student's face as they saw some of the greatest
Favorite Color: Green Favorite Flower: Daffodil Favorite Candy:
works of Art ever produced. It was amazing to see their appreciation. Also just seeing a student discover a talent they didn’t know they had and being proud of their work.
Favorite Restaurant: Red Stag, Asheville NC
Student Spotlights January student spotlights 5TH GRADE STUDENTS EXTRAORDINAIRE Without prompting of any kind, this amazing group of 5th graders took it upon themselves to clean and organize the playground equipment area. They spent two days of their recess working on their project. We’re so proud to see our students taking pride in the appearance of our campus. Great job Kaelyn Green, Caroline Meeks, June O’Halloran, Annabel Strong, Kate Beverly, Josie Short, McKellar Blair Cromartie!!!
SPREADING HOLIDAY CHEER Over the holiday Hollis, Julienne, and Eden joined me to sing Christmas songs for the residents of The Landings Assisted Living in Georgetown. They made me and LPS very proud! This is the first of many trips the students and I hope to make this year. If you'd like Mr. Starlight to arrange a performance for an assisted living or retirement center, email Tony at tstarlight@lowcountryprep.org
Student Spotlights January special recognition CELEBRATING SUCCESS: SAILOR PETERSON TRIUMPHS IN IXL MATH CHALLENGE! In our recent IXL math competition that took place from November 15 to December 15, young mathematicians had the chance to showcase their skills by completing various math problems. Among the participants, one name stood out — Sailor Peterson, a determined kindergarten student whose enthusiasm for learning knows no bounds. Sailor's dedication and hard work were truly remarkable as she conquered an astonishing 3,850 math problems during the competition. This outstanding accomplishment not only secured her victory but also exemplified a passion for learning that goes beyond expectations for a student of her age. As we applaud Sailor Peterson's impressive achievement, we also celebrate the effectiveness of online supplemental educational tools like IXL in fostering a love for learning. Congratulations to Sailor and all the participants who embraced the challenge, showcasing the power of perseverance and curiosity in the world of education.
Individual Recognition: 1st place goes to Sailor Peterson 2nd place goes to Reeves Beverly 3rd place goes to Charlotte Davies
Team Recognition: 1st place goes to kindergarten 2nd place goes to 3rd grade 3rd place goes to 1st grade
DID YOU KNOW....fun facts about new years celebrations The earliest recorded festivities in honor of a new year's arrival date back some 4,000 years to ancient Babylon. Forty-five percent of Americans make New Year’s resolutions. About 1 million people gather in New York City’s Times Square to watch the ball drop. The current ball is a 12-foot sphere that weighs 11,875 pounds and is covered with 2,688 Waterford Crystals Over 50 tons of trash are left in Times Square after New Year’s Eve celebrations. The confetti in Times Square has thousands of people's wishes written on them.
holiday sing-along DECEMBER 7, 2023
'TIS THE SEASON Special Thank You Goes Out To...
SANTA & MRS. CLAUS
RYAN CORCORAN
REECE BAYERNIC
We appreciate Mrs. Julie and Mr. Josh for embodying the spirit of generosity and warmth, characteristics we often associate with the beloved holiday figures. Your commitment has truly made a difference, and we are grateful for the positive impact you've had on this special occasion.
We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to Ryan Corcoran for gracing us with his exceptional musical talent during the program. Ryan's beautiful prelude set the perfect tone as our younger students entered the gymnasium, creating a magical atmosphere that added to the charm of the event.
We would like to give special recognition to Reece, a current 8th grader, for his outstanding contribution to the success of our event. Reece brought an incredible amount of energy and passion to the program, serving as Mr. Starlight's dedicated helper throughout the event.
HO HO HOLIDAY | DECEMBER 2023 | VOL. 9
HO HO HOLIDAY | DECEMBER 2023 | VOL. 9
Candy Cane Hunt DECEMBER 14, 2023
On December 14th, students had the opportunity to search for 91 hidden candy canes throughout the school. Among them, 6 special candy canes held the key to winning a special prize from the main office. The activity added a delightful touch to the holiday season, creating a fun and engaging experience for the students as they searched for candy canes in their classrooms.
HO HO HOLIDAY | DECEMBER 2023 | VOL. 9
COME FOR A VISIT
JAN 30, 2024
Lowcountry Preparatory School is excited to extend an invitation to prospective families and community members for our upcoming Open House on January 30, 2024, from 9:00 am to 10:30 am. Come and explore our campus, engage with our dedicated faculty and staff, and gain insights into our educational and athletic programs. We welcome anyone eager to discover the exceptional educational opportunities offered at Lowcountry Preparatory School. Parents, if you are aware of individuals interested in our school, please share this information with them. Though not mandatory, we encourage anyone who plans on attending to complete the registration form, conveniently located under the "About" menu tab on our website or click HERE.
Battle of the books Many students from grades 3-5 will be participating in Battle of the Books on January 16th. This is a virtual event so students will meet up in Mr. West’s room the morning of January 16th. Fourth graders who are not participating will be able to spend time experiencing 5th grade with Mrs. McCants. Students can bring in snacks to share with the group if they want. This is a real fun event. Mr. West and Mrs. Floyd will be in attendance for this event.
spelling bee Three students (one from grade 3, 4, and 5) and one alternate will head to Manning on January 23rd to participate in the SCISA Regional/State Spelling Bee. Mrs. Ferguson is notifying the four families of the participants to make sure the students are able to attend. A practice word list will also be sent home with these students so they can practice! Mrs. Ferguson and Mrs. Floyd will be in attendance for this event.
HO HO HOLIDAY | DECEMBER 2023 | VOL. 9
January 9th: Chess Club resumes 3-3:45 on Tuesdays January 10th: R.E.A.D. Program, 2:30-3:00 January 15th: School Closed MLK Jr Day January 16th: SCISA LS Battle of the Books Competition - Virtual Event in the Lower School; Sponsor: Mr. West January 16th: Chess Club 3-3:45 January 17th: R.E.A.D. Program, 2:30-3:00 January 23rd: SCISA Spelling Bee - Regional/State Competition at Weldon Auditorium; Sponsor: Mrs. Ferguson January 23rd: Chess Club 3-3:45 January 24th: R.E.A.D. Program, 2:30-3:00 January 30th: Open House 9:00-10:30 - open to the public January 30th: Chess Club 3-3:45 January 31st: R.E.A.D. Program, 2:30-3:00 February 2nd: Interims email to families of 3rd-12th graders February 5th-7th: Barrier Island Field Trip for 5th and 6th grade February 13th: Chess Club 3-3:45 February 14th: R.E.A.D. Program, 2:30-3:00 February 15th: SCISA Dance Competition February 19-20: School Closed - Presidents Day February 21st: R.E.A.D. Program, 2:30-3:00 February 27th: School Open House, 9:00-10:30; meet in the Cafe February 27th: Chess Club 3-3:45 February 28th: R.E.A.D. Program, 2:30-3:00 March 1st: SCISA Literary Meet in Florence March 1st: LS Science Fair, grades 3-5 March 5th: Chess Club 3-3:45 March 6th: R.E.A.D. Program, 2:30-3:00 March 7th: End of Quarter 3 March 8th & 11th: School Closed March 12th: Chess Club 3-3:45 March 13th: R.E.A.D. Program, 2:30-3:00 March 18th-22nd: Iowa and Cogat Testing Window March 19th: Chess Club 3-3:45 March 20th-21st: SCISA LS Math Meet in Sumter March 20th: R.E.A.D. Program, 2:30-3:00 March 27th: SCISA Spring Chess Tournament March 27th: R.E.A.D. Program, 2:30-3:00 March 29th-April 7th: Spring Break March 11th: SCISA Science Fair, Sumter
HO HO HOLIDAY | DECEMBER 2023 | VOL. 9