Several projects are coming to a close as we prepare for the end of the year. 

At our our All-School Meeting this morning, we had four student groups present materials they've been working on for quite some time. 

 

The first to present were two Upper Elementary students who recently completed a very complex map of Asia. One of the students joined Mill Falls this year and is also new to Montessori. She told the assembly that she has really enjoyed the process of working with her classmate to create the map.

The second presentation was made by three Lower Elementary students from the Glacier Room who shared a work they did about Montessori Core Values. 

The next two groups of Upper Elementary students presented the models they have made of cells and molecules. They shared some information about the particular molecules they made and also talked about the differences between plant and animal cells, as well as the parts of each cell type.

Our final Upper Elementary presentation included students who have been studying the US Constitution.  In groups, they recited the Constitution's Preamble and showed their projects.  Part of their work was to rewrite the Preamble in more modern and simple language, which they also read at the meeting.

Our Upper Elementary students will begin a 6-week course with staff from the Manchester branch of the Bank of New Hampshire. Ms. Laura and the two bank staff members have crafted a curriculum based on the Bank of NH's student banking program. It will focus students attention on learning to save and spend money wisely. The program - Savings Superstars - will culminate with a tour of the Bank. This is just one of the many ways that our new banking partner is embracing and supporting our mission and educational goals. Special shout out to Ellen Soucy at BNH!

This time of year, nearly every culture celebrates with a festival of lights. Chanukah, Diwali, Kwanza and Christmas, all feature light as part of the holiday. As our students explore the seasonal celebrations of many cultures, they did some hands-on activities as well. Take a look...

Our Upper Elementary students created Rangolis as part of their study of India. Traditionally, these beautiful, colorful designs are used to welcome the gods into the home. 

Meanwhile, our Lower Elementary students gathered together to light a Menorah, learn about Kwanza, and read stories about St. Nick. They also created some paper versions of some of the items seen during these different celebrations including dreidels and Kwanza wreaths reflecting the 7 principles of Kwanza. 

 

Finally, if any of you were in school today, you may have noticed some flashing lights on some of the Ugly Sweaters worn by staff members today. Sharing a little seasonal silliness among friends...Ms. Kristin's Christmas Tree Sweater was really something!

Here at school, we are also looking for extra boots, snow pants, and clothing to keep on hand at school for our Upper El kiddos - boys and girls, sizes 10 and up, please!