NOTES HOME
10/20/2023
Spanish class.
Coming Up
Wednesday, Oct 25
Half Day (see dismissal schedule below)
Thursday/Friday,
Oct 26-27
-No Classes - Parent Conferences*
-Scholastic Book Fair*
Friday, Oct 27
Houghton's Pond Playtime - everyone welcome
Thacher News
Note from the Head of School

The profound significance of observation in the Montessori classroom.

Observation is at the heart of the Montessori philosophy and plays a pivotal role in understanding a child's growth and development. Here at Thacher, we consider it an invaluable tool and encourage all parents to participate actively in this process. Why is observation so essential, you ask?

Each child progresses at their own pace and follows their unique developmental path. By observing your child in the classroom, you gain insights into their interests, strengths, and areas where they may need more support. This awareness allows us to tailor their learning experiences to match their specific needs and abilities.

Observing your child in their Montessori classroom environment enables you to witness their interactions, social growth, and the strong sense of community we cultivate at Thacher Montessori School. Through observation, you can better understand the Montessori method and its benefits, enabling more meaningful discussions with your teacher.

To make the observation process more accessible, we have set aside specific times for parents to come into the classroom and observe. To set a time to observe your child's classroom or to visit a classroom at the next if your child is in the last year of their cycle, please contact Sharyn in the main office. She will work with you to set a time for your visit.

Your active involvement in your child's Montessori journey will significantly impact their overall development. We look forward to working together to create a nurturing and empowering learning environment for your child. Thank you for trusting us with your child's education and being an essential part of our school community!
Special thanks to the TFN for last Sunday's successful International Potluck Brunch. All in attendance enjoyed delicious cuisine and community fellowship!
Warmly,

Deba
10/25 Half-Day Dismissal Schedule:

The half-day dismissal schedule for Thursday, 10/25, is as follows:

11:00 - 11:15 a.m. - All Children's House
11:15 - 11:30 a.m. - LE
11:30 - 11:45 a.m. - UE
11:45 - noon - MS and Toddlers

Siblings: Younger students will be dismissed at the older siblings' dismissal time. Exception: any students with Toddler siblings get dismissed at the Toddler's 11:45 a.m. dismissal time.
Last Chance to Order Pizza for First Session

Our online pizza order form is closing on Sunday, October 22. All pizza orders must be placed before this Sunday.

Thank you for supporting the Middle School pizza business.
Parent/Guide Conferences - Zoom or In-Person | October 26 and 27

By now, everyone should have scheduled their Parent/Guide Conferences. If not, please click on the link below.

Appointments will be available all day Thursday and Friday, October 26 and 27.

Free childcare during your 30-minute conference will be available for Thacher students only. Childcare hours are 7:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. 
Book Fair at Parent/Guide Conferences

Our Librarian, Kim, is organizing a Scholastic Book Fair to coincide with the Conferences. Discover books for children of all ages, from enchanting picture books to gripping young adult novels. A percentage of all sales directly benefits Thacher's library.
Join us in Spreading the Word About Thacher's Open House on November 4

Please spread the word about Thacher's upcoming Open House, a vital event for prospective students and their families to experience the warmth and excellence of our community. We need your help to make it a resounding success.

🗣️ Spread the Word: Tell your friends, neighbors, and anyone you know who might be interested in Thacher to mark their calendars. Your recommendation carries much weight and can make a real difference.

Please share this link to our Facebook Event with your Facebook friends and groups.

🏡 Display Your Support: Let Nikki know if you want to put up a yard sign (pictured above). By proudly showcasing it in your front yard, you'll show your support for our school and help us catch the attention of passersby.

Together, we can ensure that the Open House is a huge success and that more families in our community discover Thacher's incredible opportunities.
Picture Retake Day | November 9
If your child was absent on picture day, or if you would like a retake, our retake day is scheduled for November 9.

If you want a retake, please return your entire photo package but keep the class photo.
Thacher's Mobile App - Enhance your School Experience

Download our Mobile App by going to the App Store and searching for Thacher Montessori School. Use the password Leadership to set up an account.

  • Stay Connected
  • Calendar and Notes Home at your Fingertips
  • Report Absences Quickly
  • Secure Access

It is a great resource to get all school information in one place.
Wellness and PE with Tom Giatrakos

This week, the Wellness and PE Program introduced Mindfulness practices to CH and LE. The students participate in deep breathing exercises and yoga routines during their regularly scheduled classes. Consistent Mindfulness practices can lead to increased attention and focus, a greater ability to regulate oneself emotionally, and may elicit a relaxation response to the mind and body. Thacher students will practice Mindfulness techniques within their PE and Wellness classes for the remainder of the school year. These practices will include secular practices of Yoga, Deep Breathing Exercises, Body Scan Meditations, Nature Walks, and Positive Affirmations to aid in their social-emotional education and evolution.

They will also learn about neuroplasticity and how the brain, mind, and body are inextricably linked and can significantly influence an individual's holistic health.

Watch a short video of Dan Siegel presenting a Hand Model of the Brain here.
Thacher Family Network
New England Base Camp during Professional & Vacation Days

Thacher's Family Network will partner with New England Base Camp for Thacher School days off.

NE Basecamp will be offered for the 23/24 School Year on the following dates: 10/26, 12/18-12/22, 1/2, 2/16, 3/15, 4/11 and 4/12. (Sorry, but NE Basecamp could not accommodate the 10/27 day off.)

The Camp is for children ages five and up. During these days, students will enjoy the facilities at the Camp located on Unquity Road (5 minutes from Thacher). The programs include nature activities, STEM programming, crafts, and more.

The cost is $50 a day per child (9-3:15), and students must bring their snacks and lunch. Please register early!

Parent Meet Up | Friday, November 3
Steel & Rye after Drop-off

This year, the TFN is planning monthly coffee meetups for parents to get together and chat. The next one will be held on Friday, November 3, at Steel and Rye in Milton. Please join us right after drop-off. We'll be there until at least 10:30. Grab a drink, a delicious pastry, and some conversation with other parents in our Thacher community!
Join the Parent Facebook Group

All parents are invited to join the Thacher Montessori Parents Facebook group. The group's goal is for parents to have a space to share resources, ask questions, and support each other in the community. Join today!
Community Corner
October FamilyFest at the Wakefield Estate
This Saturday - October 21 | 2:00 - 5:00 p.m.

A family-friendly afternoon of local beer, delicious food, live music, s'mores, and pumpkin carving. Read more.
Trish Kendall atTEDxWalden Pond
November 1

Inspirational speaker and former Thacher mom Trish Kendall is on the roster of speakers at TEDxWalden Pond on November 1.

Click here for tickets and more details.