CONNECTIONS
TEACHER EXPERIENCES
Want to be the FIRST to sign your child up for The Teacher Experiences we highlight in CONNECTIONS? It happens at The EVENT.
…OF THE DAY
Want the ONLY chance to bid of Earth Connec�ons, Chef, Head of Scho ol and Contractor of the day? It happens at The EVENT.
UPCOMING E VE N T S
April and May
Here are some of the highlights for the next two months a t Pines.
May
30th – 2nd Upper Elementary Camping- Camp Cho-Yeh
3rd The EVENT
9th Play in the Park- Bake Sale will continue!
19th-21st Middle School Camping
22nd Middle School Graduation
23rd Last Day of Spring Semester- NOON dismissal all school/ No Extended PM care
26th School CLOSED
27th – 30th Infant and Toddler Week ONLY- Office hours 8-12
June
2nd Primary, Lower and Upper Elementary begin Summer Semester
19th Juneteenth- School CLOSED
CONSTRUCTION
We have stairs!
All three of our staircases have been installed. Pines has NEVER had even one stair case and now we have three!
The main staircase weighs nearly 6,000 pounds and came down Kingwood Drive as we all slept!
This is a major milestone in the construc�on in that now we can pour the concrete on the second floor, and the concrete on the stair treads. What happens a�er this??
Walls!!!
As the building is going UP… the playground is slowly coming DOWN. We are looking forward to ge�ng our backyard back so that we can begin its new era!
CONNECTION S
Lower El classroom in Katowice, Poland
Take a look
This past April, I had the honor and the pleasure to travel to Poland, where I spoke at and supported the Polska Rada Montessori (Polish Montessori Council). Over 300 atendees represen�ng, not only schools in Poland, but several neighboring European countries. The map I captured on this website shows just how many schools are now open in Poland! Fi�een years ago, when Pines first began our partnership with Poland, there were just a handful of schools that survived during the reign of Communism that did not end un�l 1989. Now, Pines is walking the path of IMC Accredita�on (Interna�onal Montessori Council) with seven schools. In 2023, Mr. David and I were the onsite visita�on team for Chatka Przedszkole Montessori in Warsaw; the first IMC Accredited school in Poland.
Coributing Significaly to a Bter World!
CONNECTION S
Texas in Poland
My proudest moment came during the plenary when the Polish and Ukrainian teachers, who visited us this past January, dressed in their finest Texan gear and talked through their slideshow of photos explaining their �me with us.
They described how peaceful Pines was and how unclutered and deliberate our classroom se�ngs were.
They pointed out the classical music playing in our classrooms and the freedom for students to work outside.
Having NEVER before seen an Infant Community, they were blown away with how the Montessori philosophy could be prac�ced with these ages.
They thanked our teachers for being so generous with their �me, and for being so open and honest with them. They also loved mee�ng our families who opened their homes to them.
They thanked our Texas hospitality, and even they over exaggerated how big Buc-ee’s was! Everything in Texas is BIGGER when translated into Polish!
TEACHER EXPERIENCES
TEACHER EXPERIENCES
TEACHER EXPERIENCES
Children’s Watercolors
TEACHER EXPERIENCES
TEACHING AT PINES
This is Ms. Kahkashan Sohail’s last month with Pines! She is retiring after 23 years. Thank you Ms. K and we will miss you.
What do you find most rewarding in your job?
There is nothing more rewarding than knowing you’ve made an impact on another person’s life. Teaching upper elementary students has proven to be an incredibly fulfilling experience for me. I take great pleasure in observing children as they grow, gain independence, cultivate a passion for learning, and reach significant milestones. What I cherish most is the daily interaction with my students, as it brings happiness and laughter, creating a lively and inspiring atmosphere.
What is your favorite event at Pines, and why?
I have a deep appreciation for the Winter Cultural Festival. In today’s diverse world, Pines offers a unique opportunity to introduce children to a variety of cultures by transforming each classroom into a representation of a different nation. It’s a magical event to explore different countries and enjoy a variety of cultural cuisines, all within the span of a single evening.
What are some differences you see between Lower Elementary and Upper Elementary children?
Upper Elementary students (ages 9 – 12) are significantly different from Lower Elementary students (ages 6 – 9) in terms of cognitive development, social skills, and academic abilities. Upper Elementary children are more adept at abstract reasoning, self-directed tasks, and peer interactions, while Lower Elementary children are still developing these skills. Children aged 9 to 12 develop a strong sense of justice, valuing fairness and moral order. This sense of justice is fostered through discussions in class meetings, where students collaboratively address issues and find solutions.
The Upper Elementary child is characterized by increased independence, and the beginnings of understanding their own identity and place in the world.
What are some wishes for Pines?
I sincerely wish that Pines experiences years filled with joy, learning, and growth for all its students and staff. I hope each year brings not only academic achievements, but also a strong sense of community and belonging for everyone.
Can you share one (or several) favorite memories from working at Pines?
Despite having numerous memories, one stands out that brings a smile to my face each time I recall it. Several years ago, Pines celebrated Teacher Appreciation Week with daily themes. My fondest memory is when a student presented me with a bag of flour on Flower Day. This was not a mistake; it was a deliberate gesture.
STUDENTS AND PARENTS WELCOME!
MIDDLE SCHOOL SPRING MARKET
FRIDAY MAY 16, 2025
CANDLES
CROCHET ITEMS
JEWELRY
CLAY MINIATURES
Handmade items by Middle school 1:00 - 4:00 PM
CHEF
CHEF OF THE DAY - DAVID
PREPARED BY PINES
“Childrendisplayauniversalloveofmathematics,whichispar excellencethescienceofprecision,order,andintelligence."
Maria Montessori in E.M. Standing’s Maria Montessori: Her Life and Work, p.344.
Montessori math is a crucial component of early childhood education, as it lays the foundation for a child's understanding of mathematical concepts, through hands-on learning and sensory experiences. The Montessori method emphasizes the importance of moving from concrete to abstract learning, allowing children to grasp complex ideas by first experiencing them in a tangible way. This approach not only helps children develop a deep understanding of math, but also fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills.
Ms. Shanila Rahim Primary trained teacher 9 years at Pines
Number Rods are a foundational material in the Montessori math curriculum, designed to help children understand the concept of quantity and the relationship between numbers 1 through 10. These rods are a set of ten wooden rods, each varying in length from 10 centimeters to 1 meter, with alternating red and blue segments. Each segment represents a unit, making it easy for children to visualize and count the quantities.
The primary purpose of Number Rods is to provide a concrete representation of numbers, allowing children to grasp abstract mathematical concepts through hands-on learning. By physically manipulating the rods, children develop a sense of numerical order and progression. The rods are arranged in a sequence, with the shortest rod representing the number 1 and the longest rod representing the number 10. This sequential arrangement helps children understand the concept of increasing quantities and the relationship between numbers.
Number Rods also play a crucial role in developing a child's fine motor skills and handeye coordination. As children handle the rods, they gain a tactile sense of each number's size and weight, which reinforces their understanding of quantity. The alternating red and blue segments make counting visual and intuitive, further enhancing the learning experience.
One of the key features of Number Rods is their self-correcting nature. When arranged correctly, the rods form a smooth "stair"
PREPARED BY PINES
pattern, which helps children identify and correct any mistakes independently. This promotes a sense of autonomy and confidence in their mathematical abilities.
In addition to teaching basic counting and number recognition, Number Rods can be used to introduce more advanced mathematical concepts such as addition, subtraction, and even early multiplication. By combining different rods, children can explore the relationships between numbers and develop a deeper understanding of mathematical operations.
Overall, Number Rods are an essential tool in the Montessori math curriculum, providing a solid foundation for a child's mathematical development. Through hands-on learning and sensory engagement, children develop a deep, intuitive understanding of numbers and their relationships, setting the stage for future mathematical success.
"Greatcreationscomefromthemathematicalmind,sowe mustalwaysconsiderallthatismathematicalasameansofmentaldevelopment."
Dr. Maria Montessori, Discovery of the Child
Maria Montessori’s belief is that math is not just about numbers, but also about fostering a child's intellectual growth and understanding of the world.
FAMILY FOCUS
How were you introduced to Montessori and why did you feel that it was the best fit for you and your family?
The Hasnie family had 10 questions to choose from. Here are the 5 they picked. Thank you!
We were introduced to Montessori while searching for childcare for our oldest child. We were looking for an environment that nurtured not just academics, but also independence, curiosity, and emotional growth. After learning more about Montessori’s child-centered approach, we felt it was the perfect fit for our family. Now, after more than a decade with two children enrolled (ages 7 and 11), we can confidently say it was the best decision and investment we could have made. Both kids have thrived, developing strong independence, a love for learning, and critical life skills. Montessori has truly supported their growth in a way that aligns with our values, and we’re incredibly happy with our choice.
What made you choose Pines versus other Montessori schools?
We chose Pines Montessori because of its strong sense of community, the passionate, experienced staff, and the authentic Montessori approach. From our first visit with Ms. Patty, we felt that Pines truly understood and respected our children’s individual needs. The school’s focus on fostering independence, curiosity, and life skills was exactly what we were looking for. After exploring options, it was clear that Pines Montessori was the best fit for our family’s values and our children’s growth.
How do you feel Montessori education has benefited your child?
Montessori has had a profound impact on my children, particularly in fostering their natural organization and thoroughness. The Montessori approach encourages independence, responsibility, and attention to detail values that have clearly shaped them. From an early age, they were given the freedom to manage their own tasks and take ownership of their learning, which has helped them develop strong organizational skills. Whether it’s their schoolwork, personal tasks, or even how they approach challenges, they consistently demonstrate a level of care and thoroughness that I truly believe stems from their Montessori education.
FAMILY F OCUS
How do you as a parent support Montessori at home?
As a parent, I support Montessori at home by creating an environment that encourages both of my daughters to be independent, curious, and responsible. I give them the freedom to make choices in their daily routines and learning activities, while also maintaining structure and consistency. We work together on organizing tasks, keeping our space tidy, and making sure each of them has a sense of ownership over their responsibilities. I encourage them to solve problems on their own and ask open-ended questions that promote critical thinking. By fostering a home atmosphere that mirrors the Montessori principles, I can help support their development and reinforce the skills they’re learning at school.
Which
is your favorite Pines event and why?
Our favorite Pines event is the Winter Cultural Festival. We absolutely love it because each year the students dive deep into learning about a different country/region, studying its culture, history, geography, and more. Towards the end of the year, we get to see all their hard work come to life through reports, projects, models, and creative displays. It is always exciting to see how the kids bring their learning to life in such a hands-on way. The event also includes fun elements like food tasting, with dishes from the featured country, and the kids dressing up in the country’s traditional clothing. It’s a wonderful way for our family to experience different cultures and see how much our children have learned in an interactive and engaging setting.
Due to the busyness of May and The EVENT we scoot Teacher
Apprecia�on to the last week of May each year. The teachers are very grateful for your kindness.
On the App are names and faces of the faculty and staff
KITCHEN CONNECTIONS
FRUIT POPSICLES
Ingredients:
1 cup fresh or frozen fruit of your preference
A favorite at Pines is beets and pineapple or strawberry and spinach!
8 oz yogurt, plain full fat
4 popsicle molds
* Optional:
You can add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup.
Instructions:
1. Place yogurt and fruit in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth.
2. Fill each popsicle mold ¾ of the way full, and then add the top.
3. Place molds in the freezer until solid.
4. Remove the tops from the
ALUMNI FOCUS
These five ques�ons were asked of Graham Neiland
When did you graduate from Pines Middle School?
I graduated from Pines Montessori on May 30th, 2019. I started at Pines Montessori on May 4th, 2009.
Where are you now?
I am a sophomore in college at Texas A&M University studying aerospace engineering.
In what way do you believe that Pines Montessori School prepared you for life?
Pines has showed me how to follow my own path, and learn how to properly schedule my day and life in a manner that allows me to succeed and enjoy the day.
What are your fondest memories of Pines?
I like the connections that you can make with your fellow classmates, as well as the freedom you are given in how you learn material, and the pace and quantities in which you learn.
Anything else you would like to share?
Some of my favorite memories from Pines come from the amazing trips that we went on in Middle School, as well as the little group skits that we did. One specific story was playing basketball under the bridge in Pigeon Key (Florida) and snorkeling in the waters*.
It was fun to interact with everyone and just enjoy everyone being there together. I also have lots of fond memories of getting ready for the yearly Upper El plays.
*Marine Biology trips are a part of the Middle School curriculum. This year the trip was to Galveston.
We are very proud of you Graham!