INSIDE THIS ISSUE... Page 1 Principal’s Words Page 2 End of the Year Show Announcement Page 3 Stats & Results and Continuing Education Page 4-5 Contest Results and Achievements Page 6-13 Classroom Updates Page 14 Spanish Page 15-19 Art Page 20 Drama Page 21 Media & Library Page 22 PE Page 23 Father’s Field Day Page 24 Calendar
QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER FROM MILLHOPPER MONTESSORI SCHOOL
MONTESSORI
Monitor
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The Best Age for a Child to Start School and How to Help at Home By MMS Owner and Teacher Ms. Christina Miller At Millhopper Montessori, we have a Beginner’s class. It is a carefully prepared environment that takes into account the developmental needs of children as young as 2 1/2 through age 3. We also have preschool classes with ages 3 to 5. A 3 year old may still be needing a nap or not quite ready to be completely potty-trained or he/she may have passed that stage and be ready for a class requiring more independence. Every child is different and never more so than at age 3. Regardless of a child being potty-trained or not still needing a nap, the mind of a 3 year old is like a sponge and the window of sensitivity for learning is at its height between age 2 1/2 and age 6. Therefore, a school environment, not day care, is highly significant during that period. Many people look at those years as important for skills such as waiting one’s turn or delaying gratification along with learning to say please and thank you and being willing to share. It is not often understood how important these years are for spontaneous learning and for building concentration and independence. It is also easier to learn to read, build the foundation for a mathematical mind and learn a second language without an accent when learned before the age of 6. 2 ½ year olds and 3 year olds learn in unique ways. At this age they have become aware of others and love to imitate. They learn best when an activity or process is demonstrated without words to distract. They prefer individual activities to group lessons and by doing individual activities uninterrupted, they can build concentration far better than most adults would expect of them. Even though individual activities are the most enticing, they also absorb language in a language rich environment with other children. They are in their sensitive period for language and their vocabulary seems to grow exponentially. They also love repetition, “Let’s do it again” they say with delight. Therefore it is a wonderful stage of development to practice until a skill is mastered. The lessons they are most interested in are those that help them to become independent. You have heard many times, “I want to do it myself.” The activities that best satisfy building independence are those that develop fine and gross motor skills and anything with water is a big hit! The home environment can be modified in ways to help develop these empoering life skills as well. As young as age 2 children can sort laundry and help load and unload the washer and dryer. However they are still too young to handle detergent, etc. They can also help dry non-breakable dishes. Children as young as age 2 can learn to measure and stir. Being aware of safety first, young children should have multiple opportunities to develop fine and gross motor skills, build confidence and independence, and deepen their concentration.
Dr. Montessori said, “In order to learn, children must first be able to concentrate- But no one can force concentration upon them. They develop concentration by fixing their attention on some task being performed with their hands.”
r u o y r e d Or ! y a d o t D DV
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IOWA TEST RESULTS Grade Kindergarten
Grade Equivalent Composite 2.7
National Percentage Rank Composite 87%
1st
2.7
87%
2nd
4.5
96%
3rd
5.2
81%
4th
7.2
87%
5th
9.8
93%
6th
12.4
93%
7th
12.7
85%
8th
13+
87%
*Check out our website for more averages*
1st-3rd Grade Reading Statistics 54 1st-3rd grade students have…
Read over 2,052 books Read an average of 38 books per student. Read over 20 million words! (20,742,690 words to be exact!) An Average Quiz success rate of 91.8%
Staff Continuing Education Ms. Christina Miller attended the annual conference of American Montessori Society in Chicago in March. Workshops and sessions that she attended covered topics such as Emotional Intelligence, Compassion Education, Art and Activism and Putting together a Vision Statement for your School. The conference included the opportunity to purchase Montessori Materials and Supplementary resources, to which she did. Christina also attended the Florida Council of Independent School’s Heads Luncheon in Jacksonville on April 12th. This was a nice meeting of Heads of schools in North Florida and the Executive Director of FCIS, Barbara Hodges, covered the latest issues for independent schools in the country and the state. PAGE
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The results are in... Throughout the year, MMS families have been donating Box Top labels as a way for our school to raise extra funds. This year we raised almost $700! The winner for bringing the most in this 2015-2016 school year is Mr. Richard and Ms. Beth’s class! They will have an ice cream party to celebrate their victory! Check out our numbers below: Mr. Richard Aslanian—1,419 Ms. Erin Sorel - 1,048 Ms. Liz Falls—925 Ms. Renee Brohamer—759 Ms. Crystal Sorrow—642 Ms. Sherilyn Farris—555 Ms. Tina Miller—539 Ms. Christina Eckstein—461 Ms. Martha Dolan—436
Physical Fitness Testing Each year, students at MMS are given fitness tests to gauge progress over the year and their academic career at the school. Three years ago the President’s Fitness Challenge that the school had used as standards for fitness testing received a much needed makeover. To put it simply, they made the standards too easy for our high achieving students. With support from administration, Coach Cam created standards based only on data from our students. This provides us with an ever evolving sample of MMS students for comparison. Students are only compared to other students of their age and gender that came before them. Our students love the challenge of trying to achieve Blue Knight or White Knight status and to try to set school records in individual events. This year the effort was better than ever, with 21 students being awarded Blue Knight status and a record setting 14 students becoming White Knights. The bar is set high and we are always so proud of the effort and achievement of our students in fitness. Awards will be presented on the last day of school!
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Spelling & geography Bee champions Ms. Erin Sorel’s 2nd Grade class & Mr. Richard Aslanian’s 2nd & 3rd Grade class: Spelling Bee 2nd Grade 1 place-Angelo C. 2nd place-Eren K. st
3rd Grade 1 place-Jeremy B-W. 2nd place-Ketki B. st
Geography Bee 2nd Grade 1 place-Sivan A. 2nd place-Miles W. st
3rd Grade 1 place-Ketki B. 2nd place-Stuart D. st
Ms. Christina Miller’s 4th Grade class: Spelling Bee 1st place-Ivo T. 2nd place-Anthony W. 3rd place-Ali G. 4th place-Clara D.
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Preschool: Ages 3 to 5 Ms. Christina Eckstein ~ Ms. Lily Tajalli Our spring geography and cultural studies took us on a journey throughout Europe. In addition to learning about the people, significant places, and animals of Europe, the children had the opportunity to sample many different foods, hear wonderful music and create artwork from various European countries. Some of the favorite European art projects included Spanish cork sculptures, English inspired smiley face pearlies, German pressed flower pictures and Italian inspired quill painting. The students also made flags of the various countries we “visited�.
Our class celebrated Earth Day during the month of April. We read the book Our Class Is Going Green, which was written and illustrated by kindergarten students at Oak Park Elementary School in Bartlesville, Oklahoma. After reading the story, we discussed different ways that we can keep our Earth clean and healthy. Next, we introduced a new recycling work that the students enjoyed doing during the work cycle time. The students also had fun making the Earth beautiful by planting new flowers by our lunch patio.
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Our final unit study of the year was ocean life. We began by learning about a variety of fish and the anatomy of a fish. The children utilized a “parts of the fish” puzzle to learn the names and functions of the different fins (caudal, dorsal, pectoral, anal and ventral fins). Then, each child created a push pinned “parts of the fish” project.
Next, we began examining the characteristics and inhabitants of tide pools, coral reefs and the open ocean. One of our experiments, the Tide Pool Hold-On, illustrated how various creatures attach to rocks in order to protect themselves from predators or from being washed out to the open ocean. Suction cups were used to simulate the tube feet of octopi and sea stars, tweezers for crab claws, tape for sea snails and sea anemones, and shells and glue for barnacles. The children also witnessed different ways the animals eat through an experiment called Ocean Mouths. The students took a piece of lettuce and rubbed it against sandpaper to imitate nudibranchs and turban snails eating plants; Tentacles that jellyfish and sea anemones use to catch food were simulated by putting glue on the children’s fingers to catch goldfish crackers; We sprinkled black pepper in a bowl of water to represent plankton and krill. Then, fine-toothed comb was dragged across the water to catch the food like a blue whale’s baleen. However, the class favorite was our Blubber Gloves experiment, which taught us about the thick layer of fat that whales have in order to keep warm.
During the work cycle time, the students engaged in activities such fish straining and tonging, shell sifting and tweezing, shell counting, ocean animal matching, and sequencing the life cycle of jelly fish, hermit crabs, seahorses, and sea lions. They also loved the art activities in this unit, which included making sea urchins from play dough and toothpicks, “sponge” painting, and sea animal scenes made by push pinning, cutting work and painting.
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Preschool/Kindergarten: Ages 41/2 to 6 Ms. Elizabeth Falls ~ Ms. Alex Caputo It is so hard to believe that this school year has come to an end! We would like to thank all the parents for allowing us to be a part of your child’s early learning experience and continued support. It seems like it was only yesterday that we had orientation. Since our last newsletter, the children returned from Winter Break with much enthusiasm and eagerness to learn and work on new lessons! We were very happy to be back and here are some photo highlights from the Second Semester:
100th Day Celebration in January
During the month of February, the children made Valentines for Brookdale Assisted Living residents and also presented their European animal research projects.
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Spring Celebration & Egg Hunt in March April’s PTO Auction item creation and planting for our Botany Study
During May, we made special art projects to give our parents during Parent Appreciation Breakfast
Work Cycle throughout this semester For our Kindergarten students, one of the most important days of the school year is almost here – Graduation! This occasion is bittersweet for us as we have watched your children grow so much in the short time they have been with us. These children are so proud of themselves for all that they have achieved. We are so amazed and impressed how far they have come since first entering our classroom. Your child has definitely impacted our lives and we wish you all much luck and success! Take care, have a wonderful summer and we love you all! PAGE 9
Lower Elementary: 1st & 2nd Grades Ms. Erin Sorel ~ Ms. Susie Long The 2015-2016 school year has flown by! We have appreciated the enthusiasm with which our students approached their learning this year. From studies of the human body and its systems to explorations of Africa, Ancient Egypt and more, their self-motivation has taken them far beyond the information presented at their lessons. On a daily basis, students enjoyed creating their own research, story books, projects, skits, etc. In Science, students studied good nutrition using the myplate.gov guidelines. As an extension, we conducted a science experiment to find out the best way to store bananas in order to keep them fresh. Students wrote hypotheses and made observations throughout the week. As part of our exploration of Ancient Egypt, students created Egyptian headdresses in art class. They also enjoyed activities that included making a mummy, and taking on the roles of people in Ancient Egyptian society.
Students learned the names of the major bones in the skeletal system as part of our study of the human body. We also enjoyed presentations from several guest speakers on blood components and vision. An important part of our class curriculum is fostering a concern for the wellbeing of others in our community and beyond. We feel that it is important to encourage compassion for others and a willingness to help people in need. Every year, our students are directly involved in several service projects. One of these is the Bread of the Mighty food bank’s annual fundraising effort, called Empty Bowls.
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This year as a fundraising effort, students have used the sewing machine to create projects that will be sold and raffled to raise funds for the food bank. One project they each created was a potholder bowl that can be used in the microwave and to handle hot bowls. Our big class project was a beautiful, foodthemed quilt which will be raffled to raise money. Our class is proud to have donated over $400 resulting from our hard work. We’re told by the food bank that this will provide 2,800 meals to people in need in our community!
Reading: 1st-3rd Grades Ms. Elaine Manion ~ Ms. Meghan Bustamante We are very proud of the enthusiasm and hard work that the children have put forth in reading this year. On the last day of school we will be handing out reading awards to the students reflecting their progress in various areas, i.e. meeting monthly reading goals, total number of reading points, and/or comprehension scores. Recently we held our annual read in the garden day. We laid quilts out under the trees and enjoyed good books with a beautiful breeze and gorgeous sunshine. The children all thoroughly enjoyed the time and space to enjoy their reading. Many would likely love to continue this type of reading environment throughout the summer. Speaking of summer reading, did you know that children who do not read on the summer break can lose up to three months’ worth of reading progress? This can leave them behind in the fall. Summer reading loss, sometimes referred to as “summer slide” can be overcome by reading daily throughout the summer. Books are very portable and can be brought along on vacation, car rides, relatives’ houses, and even your own back yard. The public library is open all summer and has some fun programs to help alleviate the summer slide. We will also be sending home information regarding our own summer reading program for tracking minutes read.
"I do believe something very magical can happen when you read a good book." -J.K. Rowling
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Upper Elementary 4th & 5th Grades
Ms. Christina Miller ~ Ms. Joanne McFarland ~ Ms. Susan Salvatore ~ Mr. Cater Johnson 4th & 5th Grade Science with Ms. Joanne Part of our science curriculum is the Life Sciences. In Fourth grade, we dissected owl pellets to find out what an owl’s diet is. Scientists use this information to determine if the owls are getting enough of the right foods and to see how healthy their habitat is. We found bones from small rodents, and tried to put them together to figure out the owls’ diets. We discovered bones for mole rats, mice, and lizards, as well as even some other small birds! We also discussed animal adaptations as part of the Life Sciences unit. Ben Greer brought in his bearded dragon, Yo Yo, so the class could see how animals adapt. We learned that Yo Yo had a “beard” that inflates to look fierce and scare predators, he burrows in the ground to keep cool and basks in the sun to keep warm, and uses the spikes on his tail to fight predators. In Fifth grade science, during our Life Science unit, we do a dissection of an animal. This year, we dissected rats to co-inside with the chapter on human anatomy. Rats internal anatomy is most similar to ours, which is why they are often used for experiments. By viewing rats’ insides, we could see how our organs are arranged inside us. To prepare for this, we discussed at length safety procedures and hygiene. We donned safety goggles, lab coats, and surgical gloves.
The students were fascinated by the rats’ anatomy, and had many questions about it. For example, we learned that the liver is above the stomach, and that is why it is harder to breathe deep when we are seated. Some Fifth graders enjoyed this process more than others, but everyone learned from it! PAGE
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Literature and Composition: 4th & 5th Grades Ms. Jennifer Kuntz In April, the Fourth and Fifth grades took the writing exam formerly known as Florida Writes. This is in line with the state of Florida, which now requires the FSA ELA Writing Component annually for students in grades 4-10. Millhopper Montessori School administers the FSA ELA Writing Component:
To assess each student’s application of the writing skills they’ve been learning throughout the year; To help us evaluate the effectiveness of our writing instruction, and identify areas on which we need additional focus; To make sure that our students get some exposure to the types of testing they will encounter throughout their academic career.
The students read 2-4 short passages and then were required to write either an informative or opinion essay in response to a related prompt. Parents will receive their child’s score, along with an explanation, with the final report card of the school year. May brought all of the excitement leading up to the end of the school year. Between Mothers’ Day Tea, show rehearsals, the book fair, Safety Patrol events, and all of the other end-of-year activities, there was always something going on! So, it was a good time to review the skills we’ve been practicing all year, and look forward to next year. In honor of our year-end show The Lion King, Fourth grade reading and writing centered around African tales. We kicked off the unit by reading a reader’s theatre version of “Anansi Brings Stories to the World” from a 2014 edition of Storyworks magazine. We then read a couple of stories about brothers at odds, including “Podhu and Aruwa” in the familiar format of Junior Great Books. Interspersed with all of these fanciful folk tales, the students mapped the countries from which the stories originated, learning a little bit about the real Africa. Finally, students had the opportunity to take what we’ve read and learned to write their own story set in an African village. Fifth grade jumped into the world of young adult literature with a novel study of Among the Hidden by Margaret Peterson Haddix. The story is set in a dystopian future in which a Population Law dictates families should only have two children. Others are “shadow children” who, according to the law, do not exist. The fifth grade students each took on the identity of a shadow child, creating a back story for themselves. Then, just like characters in the book, they worked with other “shadow children” to plan a rally in Washington D.C. to demand equal rights. This unit is a favorite of the students and mine, leading to some great discussions about rights and responsibilities as well as the role of government in our lives. The goal is to help students prepare for the move to middle school and a deeper exploration of literature. PAGE
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Spanish: Beginners through 5th Grade Sra. Maria Valladares As the academic year draws to a close, reflection reveals the many rigorous and fruitful exercises that the Spanish students were able to work through and master. We explored new avenues of subject matters while still being grounded in the basic conversational Spanish expected for this subject. Following the scope and sequence of the lead teachers for the Beginners through Third graders, I have added things and situations that peak their interest. This year, the continents, professions and geography were added to the initial base of students’ interaction and revision. Additionally, vocabulary from songs and books were tailored and designed to address topics concerned with family matters, animals’ habitations, places to live for both people and animals, nutrition, seasons, and body parts. Students were exhilarated to recognize their progressive mastery of the Spanish sections they had engaged with throughout the semester. These continual and topical engagements facilitated a better comprehension of situation other than the reductive sections that were introduced in the lessons. By promoting the adage, "Review and teach something new," students gained confidence as each one of them were afforded the opportunity to lead their favorite song at the end of each lesson. If time permitted, they then selected a classmate to lead their own chosen song. My Upper Elementary classes (Fourth and Fifth grade), also achieved their goals while working on their prospective units in Bienvenidos textbook and worksheets. Lessons were tailored to facilitate the work that the students are expected to master. Students were also expected to complete all reading assignments from such magazines as, ¿Que Tal?, and also other various and pragmatic texts. The curriculum plan required a fast face interaction through most, if not all, of the lessons. However, since the exercises were designed to be engaging, the students proved to be quite capable of following instruction and maintaining pace. The example that is constantly reinforced is that of running a race, and so, in the spirit of cordiality, additional emphasis is continually placed on politeness and civility. If a student is bothered by a bug bite or a scratch that interrupts the class, class is momentarily paused and all are recommended to say, "Lo siento" (“I'm sorry”), and then continue the lesson. Students are encouraged to exhibit an attitude of respect and tolerance for one another. Thus, politeness is reinforced amongst students. Salutations, “thank you” and “you are welcome”, are always expressed in each and every apparent situation. Using a variety of styles of instructions with basic sign language to the songs, the grammatical lessons are incorporated. For Fourth and Fifth graders, cultural and geographical demonstrations were constructed, and students progressed towards presenting their work and research in small groups. The Language of the Fan presentation was entertaining and informative. In the geographical assignment, the students chose a Spanish speaking country and then presented seven points of interest. They also memorized and illustrated the poem "Arana Pequeñita," selecting the best drawings to present the lesson to the Beginners through Third graders. It is an honor to be selected as the illustrator for introductions! The class regularly completes addition and/or multiplication flashcards to encourage proficiency and speed without having to count. Another variety of material used is Spanish Bingo. A student may even become the caller! The Beginners, Preschool, Kindergarten and Lower Elementary (First through Third grade) classes will continue to enjoy songs of spring and animals, meals with its particular foods, weather and feelings. For the Fourth and Fifth grade classes, the rest of this academic year includes one more recitation and more vocabulary with grammar. It promises to increase the students' knowledge of the language and provide them with a better and exciting progression. The goal of all my Spanish classes is that every student maximizes his/her own communicative competence in Spanish and to succeed as well as enjoy this skill.
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Art Ms. Joanne McFarland
Springs Arts Day To celebrate the arts, Ms. Joanne McFarland (Millhopper Montessori Art teacher for grades First – Eighth), Ms. Elise Hoover, and Ms. Johanna Livingston, along with the PTO, organized an all-day event that exposed the entire MMS student body to many kinds of art – pottery, painting, graphic design, mixed media, and dance. This endeavor was fully funded by the Original Artworks fundraiser when you ordered items with your child’s art on them. Each class got to visit four different artists during the rotating schedule, and each artist led the class in an art lesson based on their unique style of art. The students also got to watch as some of the artists demonstrated their art for them. The students were thrilled to learn about different forms of art! Check out the TV20 story on our Spring Arts Day: http://www.wcjb.com/local-news/2016/03/artists-visit-students-millhopper-
Darrel Adams Artist Statement “I developed my interest in pottery through my grandfather, Bill Gordy, and great uncle, D.X. Gordy. Both were lifelong potters and pioneers in the transition from utilitarian pottery production to modern studio pottery in Georgia. I grew up in Gainesville, Florida and every year my family would visit relatives in Georgia. My grandfather’s shop was a fun place for kids, with treadle wheels and the sweet smell of clay. He always seemed happy, whistling and turning pots by the thousands. I went to the University of Georgia to study art and decided to concentrate in ceramics. My grandfather told me that being a potter was mostly hard work and long hours, very challenging and deeply satisfying. I was fired up. My great uncle D.X. encouraged me with his opinion that clay was the perfect medium. Not only can you make beautiful, functional pottery with it, but you can also sculpt with it or paint on it. Between the study of mineralogy, glaze composition, and fire, it is not something you get bored with. And while it can be challenging to make a good living, it is a great way to live.”
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Idanya Clark Idanya Clark is from Nassau, and a student at University of Florida. Her interest in art was evident when she presented her “Blotto Lesson” to the preschool students, which was a great lesson in symmetry. To begin, she laid out some newspaper, paint, and pre-folded paper. Then the students used a paint brush and placed the paint on one side of the folded paper or directly on the fold. Next the students simply folded their paper and pressed down with the palm of their hand over the paper to transfer the image to both sides of the paper. The students can open the paper and see the different designs it creates. The students loved seeing the symmetrical images they created.
Cindy Steiler Cindy creates her art using textiles and embroidery to create a story. She also adds photographs printed onto fabric using a process called Cyanotyping. This process is similar to creating a sunprint on paper, except that is printed on fabric and uses special chemicals to change the color. The process changes the images from a blue and white into sepia (brown tones) or black and white.
Artist Statement “My favorite childhood memories center on spending time with my great-grandmother, Mary Stieler. She taught me to sew, quilt and embroider, all while sharing amazing stories about her life. What she passed to me had been passed to her along a long line of women, inspiring in me a lifelong passion for creating. Through my work I hope to capture the essence of my relationship with my grandmother while exploring and celebrating all women and girls; our relationships, our daily lives, and our traditions. I want to use my work to preserve and continue the traditions of both craft and story in a way that honors these lineages, but is decidedly modern; that is intensely personal, but accessible to all. The bisque arms in my pieces have been excavated from old doll factories in Germany, adding another element to the story of my art. The antique, homespun linen and crocheted lace are beautifully textured and symbolic of the traditions inspiring me. I use these carefully selected antique and vintage materials because I love thinking about all the hands that have touched them as they made their way to me, pulling bits of our past into the present.”
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Carla Amancio Carla Amancio has been dancing since the age of six all over the world, first as a corps dancer and eventually as a soloist. She has won many prestigious awards and recognitions worldwide. Carla is now a principal dancer with Dance Alive National Ballet, and makes her home here in Gainesville, where she is a teacher at Pofahl Studios, Dance Alive’s official school .
Terry Ashley www.terryashleybotanicals.com
Terry’s photographs are botanical chords, or two aspects of the same plant. One image is a traditional one of a plant: a flower, leaves, or a seed pod, The other image, called a micrograph is taken at a higher magnification (most often under the light microscope). The micrograph reveals cellular details that are seldom seen, while providing background texture. Please take a moment to visit her website to see the amazing images she creates and to learn more about her work.
Artist Statement (Shortened) “I am a self-taught artist with a scientific background. My tools are not brushes and paint, but camera and microscope. I well remember the first time I saw Indian Pipe - a delicate non-green plant that looks like it is carved from wax. My mother sent me to a wild flower book to find out for myself why it was non-green and how it compensated for not manufacturing its own food through the production of chlorophyll. This encounter launched a dilemma that continued for years. Was my main interest SCIENCE or ART? While searching for a way to combine a micro image with a more recognizable view of the plant subjects, I attended a presentation by Andre Gallant, a Canadian photographer. He was creating "slide sandwiches" that consisted of a "subject" slide and a "texture" slide. It was an "Ah ha" moment for me when I realized that here was a way of combining the two types of images and led to the creation of what I call "Botanical Chords." As a scientist, I always considered microscopy an under recognized art form. Now that I am retired my mission as an artist is to raise awareness for and appreciation of the beauty that lies just below the level of resolution of our own eyesight.” PAGE
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Patrick Grigsby www.patrickgrigsby.us
Patrick has taught at both Santa Fe College and University of Florida in the arts departments, and he is currently an adjunct professor for Graduate and Distance Education at UF. Patrick has an MFA in printmaking from UF, and in 2004, he launched the Interactive Media Production certificate program at Santa Fe. This focuses on DVD project development, earning the program a nationally recognized League for Innovation “Innovation of the Year” achievement throughout the nation’s community colleges.
Kristyn Lopez Kristyn is graduate student at UF studying art education. Her area of studio practice is in drawing and painting, collage and book-making. She has taught in elementary and middle schools in Broward County, and served as the art teacher at Alachua Learning Center for the past two years before enrolling in grad school at UF. Kristyn led a "zine-making" workshop. The students collaborated with each other using found collage materials to create pages for a class or group art magazine that was copied, and each student took home. Zines have been popular in the US as early as the 1930s as underground, independent publications. Rolling Stone magazine started out as a zine! Students are likely familiar with contemporary self-publication through electronic media, such as podcasting and blogs, but had likely not experienced this hands-on and totally accessible form of written and visual communication. Each student contributed one page to the group zine. Zine workshop prompts: Who is the most interesting or important person you've ever met? What is one thing you wish you could change about your city? Why do you think it is important for adults to listen to what kids have to say? Where is your favorite place to spend time in your city? Tell about a time when you've used a power or special skill that you possess to solve a problem.
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Larry D. Rosalez & Amo Soumahi Larry Rosalez is a graduate from the University of Florida, and has set up residence here in Gainesville after graduation. He is active in the arts community and has been in several productions locally. Amo Soumahi is a drummer that often accompanies Larry in his endeavors. And many thanks to both gentlemen for filling in after a last minute cancellation! The students thoroughly enjoyed learning African dance moves and words, which was a great enrichment to our production of The Lion King!
Even the preschool classes came to watch the dancing!
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Drama End of the Year Show Rehearsals Ms. Sylvia Aslanian ~ Ms. Liz Bublitz The Lion King is coming along nicely. In each rehearsal the students learn discipline, teamwork and a variety of theater lingo, such as: stage left, stage right down stage center, down stage right. The journey started with the purchase of the rights to do the show from Music Theater International and a trip to see the Broadway production in Tampa. The students have learned about the African culture, and have learned words and phrases in Swahili in order to memorize and recite lines and songs, and have also incorporated choreography into their work. They have been watching videos from the The Lion King Experience Curriculum sent to them from Music Theater International. These videos reiterated concepts learned in class and were facilitated by the actual Broadway actors. We are amazed every year how the students embrace the year end show and how they learn to transition successfully from rehearsals to a math class or to a history class. We are fortunate to be able to rehearse during half of our media classes, drama classes and music classes. Our one-to-one immersive curriculum style allows us to hold full run-throughs on Fridays having started the end of April and during May. This year we also had many parents that have embraced the show and brought their own ideas and creativity, under the direction of Ms. Deeta Adkins. Ms. Sachar Amdur has outdone herself with the animal costumes, Zazu and lionesses headdresses. And Ms. Elise Hoover created giraffe head pieces and the Middle School jungle plants and Pumbaa, to highlight a few items. Ms. Nance Leedy, Ms. Jennine Brandt and other parents lent a hand behind the scenes cutting, gluing and taping. As always our staff is involved: Ms. Richard Aslanian and Coach Cam Parker went to pick up the set piece after PK Yonge’s Beauty and the Beast (that we are transforming into Pride Rock), Ms. Jennifer Kuntz helps with our run-throughs, and Ms. Joanne McFarland added her artistic talents to many of the set pieces. We are thrilled to able to present our interpretation of this Broadway classic, and appreciate all the time and efforts of our Millhopper Montessori Family.
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Media & Library Ms. Jennifer Kuntz
Our Spring Book Fair was held Monday, May 16 – 20, 2016. With the proceeds, we were able to purchase over $1,000.00 worth of books for the school – including all of the teacher requests! In addition, over this school year Scholastic Dollars have been used to subscribe to classroom magazines as well as purchase a Cover One machine to repair well-loved books, saving money and giving books a new lease on life. Mark your calendars now for the Fall Book Fair: November 28 – December 2, 2016. That’s the week right after Thanksgiving break, so you can get a head start on your holiday shopping! Make sure your child reads all summer long to help them keep up their skills for next year. Elementary and Middle School students will have reading lists (with some required books) to help with this. No matter what their age, make sure your child(ren) read some books of their choice – just for fun! Children of any age also love to be read to, so break out some old favorites. We have a great public library system here in Alachua County, so take advantage of it. They offer lots of free programming for all ages. What a great way to beat the heat! Check it out: https://www.aclib.us/ . Below are some links to help you support your child with their summer reading: http://www.justreadfamilies.org/ This site, home of the state of Florida’s “Just Read, Families!” initiative, includes lots of information about supporting your child’s reading development, including suggested summer reading-related activities and outside links. http://www.scholastic.com/ups/campaigns/src-2016 The theme of this year’s Scholastic Summer Reading Challenge is “Be a Reading Superhero”. All rising First – Fifth graders can login to track their reading and earn online badges as they reach goals. The Scholastic site includes a section for parents, which has resources such as activities and suggested titles by age. There are even suggested Young Adult titles – maybe you’ll find something new! http://www.ala.org/alsc/2016-summer-reading-list The Association of Library Service to Children has created updated summer reading lists for 2016. Follow the link above for suggested titles divided into three separate lists: Kindergarten – 2nd Grade; 3rd – 5th Grade; and 6th – 8th Grade. http://www.floridamediaed.org/ssyra.html The Florida Association for Media in Education and the Florida Department of Education jointly sponsor the Sunshine State Young Reader’s Awards to encourage students in upper elementary and middle school to read appealing, good quality literature. The lists for the upcoming 2016-2017 school year are available at the link above. Students who read three or more titles from the list can vote for their favorite at the end of the school year. Here’s a hint: Ms. Jennifer Kuntz and Ms. Susan Hansen expect their language arts students to read books from these lists! Enjoy your summer, and happy reading! Ms. Jennifer Kuntz
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Physical Education Coach Cam Parker Archery: We saved up the funds awarded to our school from the 5 Points of Life Kids’ Marathon over the last few years and finally purchased nearly $3,000 worth of archery equipment! The students have eagerly awaited this unit as Coach Cam Parker has teased it for a couple years now. In preparation, Coach Cam spent a Saturday at the Easton Sports Complex in Newberry becoming a certified USA Archery instructor. Mr. Yo Tucker is also a certified instructor and has years of experience of teaching archery in a camp setting. He jumped in to help Coach Cam plan and to teach our first unit of archery at MMS! A big thank you to Mr. Yo for his time, energy and knowledge. We wouldn’t have wanted to do it without you. Students were given a week and a half of introduction, safety, and fundamentals lessons inside before ever stepping foot on a range. After a day or so of walk-throughs, students were finally able to safely fire arrows into the targets. In a “we-couldn’t-make-this-up moment”, the very first shot fired by M3S student Joey M. hit the bullseye! Check out the pictures on the school’s Facebook page if you don’t believe us. Students have had to be patient through lessons, as there are only four active shooters at a time, but it has been very rewarding each time a student buries the arrow in the target for the first time.
Dodgeball: As each school year winds down we finish the year with a dodgeball unit.
No need for worry, we use
a light coated foam ball for safety. Shhhhh, don’t tell the students but they are working on throwing, catching, agility, spacial awareness and much more all while playing! The middle school students actually form a league with team names, jerseys, chants and standings that are updated daily. At the end of the season, participants vote on team All-Stars and end of season awards. It’s a great way to culminate a great year in PE. This year’s M3S Dodgeball Award Winners are:
All-Stars Blue Better Than Yous: Rissa J. & Maxx A. Perfect Pink Platypodes: Analia C. & Ethan G. Golden Gate Bridges: Nicole B. & Ross D. Green Lima Beans: Robyn J. & Aidan B. Golden Arm: Ethan G. Sportsmanship Award: Aidan B. Happy Hands: Nicole B. Fast Feet: Ross D. Most Valuable Player: Aidan B. Team Champion: The Golden Gate Bridges
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Father’s Field Day Once again, our First through Eighth Grade Father’s Field Day was a great success. The number of events was expanded and all families did each event this year. Some events were modified and a couple new ones were introduced. Smiles and laughter were in abundance on the beautiful last Friday before Spring Break. Ribbons were awarded to class winners of each event, overall class champions, and the 2016 Father’s Field Day champion! The water balloon toss is always a favorite for many and this year was no different. The results were splashtastic. A big thank you to all the fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters and others that came out to participate in a memorable event.
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June 2016 Wednesday, June 1
Kindergarten Graduation @ Unity Church 1:00 PM Reception to follow @ MMS Big Room
Thursday, June 2
Last Day of School for Early Childhood/Kindergarten
Friday, June 3
End of the Year Show @ PK Yonge Theater 5:30 PM Cast Party @ PK Yonge Café Immediately following show until 9:00 PM
Tuesday, June 7
Middle School 8th Grade Graduation @ Unity Church 1:00 PM Reception to follow @ MMS Big Room
Wednesday, June 8
Blue Springs Field Trip: Richard Aslanian’s 2nd & 3rd Grade Class Christina Miller’s 4th & 5th Grade Class Sherilyn Farris’ Middle School Class
Wednesday, June 8
Northeast Pool Field Trip: Erin Sorel’s 1st & 2nd Grade Class
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Thursday, June 9
Last Day of School for Elementary/Middle School
Thursday, June 9
1st-3rd Grade Reading Awards @ MMS Big Room 9:30 AM
Thursday, June 9
1st-8th Grade Fitness Awards @ MMS Big Room 10:30 AM
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Monday, June 13
Summer Camp begins
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August 2016
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Thursday, August 4
Ms. Crystal’s Orientation Day 10:00-12:00 PM (continued)
Friday, August 5
Ms. Crystal’s Orientation Day 10:00-12:00 PM
Friday, August 5
Ms. Martha Dolan’s Orientation Day 9:00 AM-12:00 PM
Friday, August 5
Ms. Christina Eckstein’s Orientation Day 9:00 AM-12:00 PM
Friday, August 5
Ms. Elizabeth Falls’ Orientation Day 1:00 PM-3:30 PM
Friday, August 5
Ms. Renee Brohamer’s Orientation Day 9:00 AM-12:00 PM
Monday, August 8
First Day of School for Early Childhood/Kindergarten
Friday, August 12
Ms. Erin Sorel’s Orientation Day 11:00 AM-12:00 PM
Friday, August 12
Ms. Christina Miller’s Orientation Day 12:00-1:00 PM
Friday, August 12
Middle School Orientation Day 12:00-1:30 PM
Friday August 12
Mr. Richard Aslanian’s Orientation Day 1:00 PM-2:00 PM
Monday, August 15
First Day of School for Elementary/Middle School
Thursday, August 18
Beginners, Preschool & Preschool/Kindergarten Parent Orientation Night 6:30 PM - Adults only
Tuesday, August 23
Ms. Sherilyn Farris’ Parent Night 6:00 PM