March has arrived, and we are embracing Women’s History Month by exploring the lives and contributions of remarkable women who have shaped our world. This offers our scholars an opportunity to engage with history in a meaningful and reflective way, celebrating the power of individuals to create change.

In mathematics, our scholars continue their journey with measurement and data, deepening their understanding of numbers through hands-on exploration. As needed, they will revisit the foundational concepts of base ten and operations, strengthening their mathematical foundation to build confidence and independence in problem-solving.

Across all grade levels, our scholars are engaging in RARE writing, a process that encourages the development of clear, well-supported ideas. This writing process enhances their communication skills across subjects, fostering critical thinking and clarity in their expression.

For Grade 3, the focus is on preparing for the CAASPP testing in April. Scholars are working with concrete materials and guided activities to explore area and perimeter, while also revisiting opinion writing. They are learning how to form and support their opinions using evidence, which encourages thoughtful analysis and self-expression.

In social studies, our scholars are exploring the diverse cultures, geography, and landmarks of South America. This study connects them to the world beyond their immediate environment, fostering an appreciation for global diversity and the interconnectedness of cultures.

It’s an exciting month filled with discovery, growth, and exploration. We look forward to the continued progress our scholars will make as they develop into thoughtful, independent learners!

Here are some fun and simple ways you can help your child learn at home, inspired by Montessori ideas:

• Math with Everyday Activities: Let your child help you cook or bake, and ask them to measure ingredients. You can also have them sort toys or objects by size, color, or shape. This makes math feel like part of daily life!
• Informative Writing: Encourage your child to write about something they’ve learned or experienced. For example, they could write a short report on their favorite animal, describe how something works, or even write about an activity they did during the day. This helps them practice giving clear, detailed information, similar to the RARE writing we do in the classroom.
• Explore South America: Help your child learn more about South America by researching together. You can look at maps, find countries on a globe, and learn about the different animals, landscapes, and cultures. Ask your child what they’re curious about and find resources like books, videos, or online articles to explore those questions. You could even try cooking a dish from a South American country together or create a simple art project inspired by South American culture. If you do, please contact your child’s teacher to share the experience with their classmates!
• Sharing Opinions: Help your child develop their thinking and communication skills by encouraging them to share their opinions. Ask them to explain why they like a certain book, game, or activity. For example, you might say, “What do you like most about this game, and why do you think it’s fun?” Encourage them to give reasons to support their opinions, helping them practice forming and expressing thoughts clearly. You can also have them write or draw about their opinions, which supports their writing development.
• Independent Time: Give your child a quiet space where they can work on activities like reading, spelling, or solving puzzles. Encourage them to do this independently, so they feel proud of their accomplishments. This builds confidence and helps them practice self-discipline, which is key to their growth.

By using these simple ideas at home, you’ll support your child’s learning in a fun, meaningful way and help them continue to grow as independent, curious learners!

This month, as part of our Leader In Me program, we’re focusing on key social skills to help our scholars build strong relationships. Here’s what we’re working on:

• Empathic Listening: Teaching scholars to listen carefully and understand others' feelings. You can practice this at home by asking your child about their day and really listening to what they say.
• Speaking Respectfully: Encouraging scholars to talk kindly and respectfully. Help your child practice using polite words when they express their thoughts or feelings.
• Seeking Voices from Others: Helping scholars understand the importance of listening to others' ideas. Encourage your child to ask family members or friends for their thoughts.
• Working with Others: Teaching teamwork and collaboration. Involve your child in group activities at home, like cooking or games, where they can learn to share tasks and work together.

By supporting these skills at home, you’ll help your child become a more respectful and thoughtful communicator.

In March, teachers will be leading projects tailored to the academic needs and interests of our scholars. These projects will focus on what students are learning this month, allowing them to explore topics in an engaging way.

To learn more about the specific projects in your child’s class, please reach out to their teacher.

• 3/7/25 Shelter in Place Drill
• 3/12-3/14/25 Minimum days Parent Conferences
• 3/13/25 New Family Information Night 
• 3/19/25 Minimum Day for Staff Development