February 20, 2024
I hope everyone had a nice three-day weekend! I know I definitely needed the extra rest to get over "cold and flu" season. Spring and Spring Break is right around the corner, how exciting!
February 2nd, 2024
Report Cards: At this time all Report Cards have been sent home with the children. Thank you all for your patience and flexibility in these trying times in class 218. If there are follow up meetings, emails, or other topics from conferences please send a gentle reminder and I will get back to you as soon as I can.
Valentine Grams: If you have not done so already, please send in a bag of Hershey kisses to donate to our E2 Valentine Grams fundraiser.
Valentine's Day is around the corner...time to send your loved ones a little treat - or perhaps show some appreciation for your favorite teacher or administrator?
We will continue to offer the Smencils- delicious smelling pencils.
We’re excited about this fun, eco-friendly treat that we know all kids & adults will love. The Tiny Plush Animals are also available again!
Valentine Grams are on sale February 1st- February 14th
Kisses $3
Smencil $3
Kisses + Smencil $5
Tiny Plush $5
Tiny Plush + Kisses $6
Tiny Plush + Kisses + Smencil $8
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January 8, 2024
Conferences: Conferences start this Friday, January 12th and will continue next week. This Friday and next Friday will both be half-days for conferences and school will be out at 11:30 am. The conferences are student led and include the parent and teacher. Please sign-up for a time to meet by clicking the sign-up above. Progress reports will be emailed at least 24 hours prior to the conference.
Pizza Friday: If you did not pay in full the second payment of $90 is due Friday, January 19th. A half sheet was passed out last week in student’s homework folders if you need to send in the second payment.
You may either make a check payable to Sarahfina Fore, send in cash, or Venmo me (please email for code).
Novel Study: On Thursday, our Grade level Grammar lessons are converting into our Novel Study grade level lessons.
Valentine Grams: The E2 Fundraiser for Valentine Grams will be starting soon. We ask that each family bring in a bag of Hershey kisses (no nuts please) to help contribute to the fundraiser.
We also need volunteers to help, if you would like to help, please click the following link to sign-up.
This link is to help assemble Grams at home: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090F4FAEAD29A6F58-valentine4#/
Thank you for your support!
Next Monday, January 16th there is No School in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
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January 3, 2024
Conferences: Conferences start next Friday, January 12th and will continue on Friday, January19th. Both Fridays will be half-days for conferences and school will be out at 11:30 am. The conferences are student led and include the parent and teacher. Please sign-up for a time to meet by clicking the sign-up provided in your parent emails. Progress reports will be emailed at least 24 hours prior to the conference.
Homework: Students will continue to do one math lesson a night and 20 minutes of nightly reading.
Great Lives Project: The next due date for the Great Lives Project, is Friday January, 26th. The outline and project proposal are due. We went over both in class before break, if your student needs another copy have them ask me in class for a new one.
SF
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November 20, 2023
No School Wednesday, November 22nd- Friday, November 24th for Thanksgiving Break.
Happy Feasting, I hope you all get rest and relaxation. We all earned it!
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October 23, 2023
Enjoy,
SF
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October 16, 2023
I hope everyone had a nice and enjoyable Fall Break!
Vision and Hearing Screening:
Great Lives Fair:
Homework:
Scholastic Book Fair will be happening the week of Monday, October 30th – Friday, November 3rd.
Happy Fall,
SF
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October 2, 2023
Whole Class Lessons Given in September
Writing: Weekly Writing Prompts
September 11, 2023
Families, thank you all for your well wishes, unity, and support over the last week. It means a great deal to me and makes my own emotional processing easier. As we move forward as a united class, I want to also acknowledge our children and their greatness. Thank you all for showing up for us and our community.
<3
SF
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September 7, 2023
I hope everyone had a nice three-day weekend! I rested and explored some of our downtown urban gardening.
Whole Class Lessons Given in August (wEEKS 1-5)
<3
SF
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August 22, 2023
Welcome to (w)eek 3!
SF
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Monday, August 14, 2023
Welcome to (w)EEK 2!
Friday, August 11, 2023
WOW! I can't believe we've only been together for a week, we've been having such a nice time back in class 218. I feel so excited for this school year and am overjoyed with our classroom community. Thank you all for your kind words, soft guidance, and open-heartedness.
With Grace,
SF
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August 2, 2023
Hello friends and families, old and new! I hope your summer was safe and fun. Ren and I are looking forward to the start of the new school year. A couple of things to note before we start school on Monday.
If you have any questions, please feel free to email me at [email protected]
With Anticipation,
SF
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May 15, 2023
Hello families,
I wanted to take quick moment and celebrate our class trip. I am thoroughly impressed with our students, parents, and parent chaperones. Parents, thank you for bringing students prepared and ready for our trip. Parent chaperones, thank you so much for your innovation and positive attitudes through all our adventures. Finally, thank you students for teaching your families how to be fellow Montessorians. I truly felt like I was on a family vacation, and I’m so happy we were able to have this experience together.
By now your child’s report card as well as a guide to our end of the year portfolios should have been reviewed. Please reach out to me if you need any help. I could not be happier at the growth we have shown collectively. Thank you parents for your support and encouragement at home, and students GREAT JOB!
here are a few more dates and updates
SF
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April 24, 2023
Hello families, here are some upcoming dates and information for you.
Enjoy,
SF
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April 17, 2023
Overnight Trip:
Auction Dinner:
Class Pool Party
SF
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Rock Fish Party!!!!
Rock Fish Party Friday 4/14/23 ( Game day and Cozy (com)Forts)
If there are any parent concerns about this rock fish party please email me. We will find alternative activities as needed. <3
Happy Weekend!
SF
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April 10, 2023
Welcome to week 32 of school. Our week will be very different due to testing this week. You may notice your students feeling more tired/have more energy at the end of the day due to these changes in routines. Keep your heads up and we will get through this all together!!
State Testing: Our class will be doing state testing this week.
Game Day: Students earned a half-day Game Day from the Fun Run, which we will be doing this Friday morning, April 14th.
Villa Auction: The Villa Auction will be happening Saturday, April 29th.
“I’ve never been interested in being invisible and erased.”
— Laverne Cox
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April 7, 2023
Welcome to the end of 31 of school!
Homework:
This Friday, April 7th is a Half-Day all of school is out at 11:30 am for Staff Professional Development.
State Testing:
Here is our class testing schedule:
Monday, April 10th: 4th, 5th and 6th graders, AASA Writing test
Tuesday, April 11th: 4th, 5th and 6th graders, AASA Reading and Math Part 1
Wednesday, April 12th: 4th, 5th and 6th graders, AASA Reading Math Part 2
Happy April!
SF
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March 27, 2023
AZSCI Testing:
Whole Class Lessons Given in March(weeks 28-30 and Spring Break)
Writing: Weekly Writing Prompts
March 20, 2023
I hope everyone has an enjoyable Spring Break!
State Testing: We will be starting to do some test practice this week for the upcoming state tests. If you would like to provide a morning snack for the class during a testing day, please sign-up by clicking the following link: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090f4faead29a6f58-sfs1#/
Here is our class testing schedule:
PTO Movie Night: The Villa PTO invites all families to the annual Movie Night, held on the Elementary field. The event will take place Saturday, March 25th, and is FREE for everyone to attend! The movie will begin shortly after sunset at approximately 6:30 p.m. Come watch MINIONS - The Rise of Gru with all your friends!
Middle School Farmers Market: This Sunday, March 26th the Middle School will be doing their Spring Farmers Market from 3-5 pm at the Middle School campus.
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March 6, 2023
Art History Fair:
Spring Break is next week, Monday, March 13th – Friday, March 17th.
State Testing:
February 27, 2023
Homework:
Black History Month Community Celebration:
Art History Fair:
Whole Class Lessons Given in February (weeks 24-27 )
Writing: Weekly Writing Prompts
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February 6, 2023
Happy Black History Month! This month we will be collaborating with our DEI parent council to continue to celebrate OUR history. We aim to continue our classroom traditions (Black History Timeline, Bite Sized Black History, Musical Messages highlighting POC, and more) in efforts to celebrate Black Excellence. We are so excited to enrich our understanding of history and continue to be representatives of a global society of truth, beauty, and love.
Thank you
Hard Lockdown Drill:
Valentine Grams:
Half-Day:
Whole Class Lessons Given in Jan (weeks 19-23 )
Writing: Weekly Writing Prompts
January 30, 2023
Field Trip:
“Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.” -James Baldwin (No Name in the Street).
Happy Black History Month!
SF
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January 26, 2023
Hello families. This week I had a small back injury and was out of the classroom for the start of the week. Thank you so much for you kind words and flexibility around this.
Rock Fish Party Friday 1/27/23 (Recess and a cozy movie marathon)
PTO Fun Run:
Art History Fair:
Valentine Grams:
Thank you for your support!
SF
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January 17, 2023
I hope everyone had a nice three-day weekend. I rested and recuperated from the first half of our conferences. They have been going great. We have been sharing SO MUCH work from semester 1.
SF
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January 9, 2023
Conferences:
Valentine Grams:
Thank you for your support!
Next Monday, January 16th there is No School in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day
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January 3, 2023
Thank you so much for the gifts and words of appreciation. It was a fantastic way to start the holiday with a sense of community and acknowledgements of all of our hard work. I hope everyone and a nice break and a Happy New Year!
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December 12, 2022
Hello families, here are a few more notices before we leave for winter break.
Cookie Making and Decorating: We will decorating the cookies this Friday, December 16th. Each student will get around five cookies each to decorate and take home. We still need a couple items for this activity, click the following link to sign-up to bring in an item Please bring in the items by Thursday, December 14th.
Class Gift Exchange: The class voted to do a fun white elephant gift exchange this Friday, December 16th. Students should bring in a silly or fun item, it can be something from your home but please do not spend more than $20 on the gift.
Winter Break will be from Monday, December 19th – Monday, January 2nd. School Resumes on Tuesday, January 3rd.
Homework: Students should be completing two math lessons and reading logs over the break. Lesson 51 and 52 are due when we return from break.
Art History Fair: Students should also be working on their Art History Fair project. They should be completing their research notecards and have a total between 50-100 cards by January. They can also start to work on their art project.
I hope everyone has a nice and relaxing Winter Break and a Happy New Year!
SF
P.S.- If you would like to take care of Truffle over winter break, reach out to SF or sign up! https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f0f44aca82eaafe3-truffle1
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December 5, 2022
Hello families, we are fastly approaching winter break and we are so excited! We have many activities happening so please be on the lookout for updates from the children. This Friday, December 9th is a Half-Day for all of the students, school will be out at 11:30 am.
Rock Fish Party (Pt 1 and Pt 2)
Service Projects: Updates and important dates
Cookie Making and Decorating Dec 16th (9:30-11:00)
Class Gift Exchange on Fri Dec 16th:
Chaperones for Overnight:
We can make it through together!
SF
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November 28, 2022
Hello families, I hope you had a restful break. I'm excited to be back in the room, and our marathon to the end of the calendar year has begun!
Whole Class Lessons Given in November (weeks 13-16 )
Writing: Weekly Writing Prompts
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November 18th, 2022
Hello families,
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November 14, 2022
Wow what an event! I wish I could have joined for the Ruby Bridges walk, but I am hoping that this celebration of Ruby Bridge's courage will become an annual activity for Villa. Thank you to all the parents who were able to participate and a shout out to Sarah Sullivan for leading us.
November 7, 2022
Families, I will be out this week resting and healing from home. I will not have access to my email until next Monday, so please direct any urgent questions to our level director: Christy Cantu
Ruby Bridges Walk to School: We invite you to put on your favorite purple shirt and join us on Monday, November 14th as we walk to school together in celebration of Ruby Bridges and her courageous walk to school on November 14, 1960. Ruby Bridges' story is one of kindness and friendship. Read more about her story here.
You may reach out to Villa parent Sarah Ontiveros Sullivan with any questions regarding this event at - [email protected].
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October 31, 2022
The Fall festival was a success! Thank you so much for your support, contributions, and joy for this student lead event.
For 6th Grade Parents Only: The Middle School will be having a Parent Information Meeting for Future 2023-2024 Students at the Middle School Campus 2927 E. Campbell Ave. this Wednesday, November 2nd, 2022 6:30-8:00 P.M.
Lockdown Drill: We will be doing a practice soft lockdown drill this Thursday, November 3rd. If you ever come to campus during a lockdown please do not come on campus for your safety and the safety of the children.
Whole Class Lessons Given in September (weeks 10-12 and fall break)
Writing: Weekly Writing Prompts
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October 24, 2022
Art History Fair: Students should be choosing the artist they will be researching this week if they haven’t already done so. The signed letter and artist choice is due this Friday. October 28th.Once your student chooses an artist they should start researching. Students will also be planning Going Outs to various art museums in the valley next month to help them research.
School Pictures: School Pictures will be happening this Thursday, October 27th. If you haven’t registered your student yet please do so now.
Field Day: This Friday, October 28th the E2 classes will be having a Fall Field Day with various games and activities. We are asking for donations to help with this fun event. If you would like to bring in some supplies, click the following link and Thank You! https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090F4FAEAD29A6F58-fall1
This Friday, October 28th is an All School Half-Day, all of the school will be out at 11:30 am for staff professional development.
Trunk or Treat: Villa’s free Trunk or Treat event will be happening this Saturday, October 29th on the Elementary field.
We still need LOTS of candy donations! Click the following Sign Up Genius Link to sign-up: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090f4faead29a6f58-trunk
Each campus will have a designated walk-through time as follows:
4:00 - 4:45 PM - ECC (Infants, Toddlers, Primary),
5:00 - 5:45 PM - Elementary 1
6:00 - 6:45 PM - Elementary 2 and Middle School.
For families attending the event, please park at ECC or Elementary Campus parking lots and enter through the Elementary Carline gates (look for signs/balloons). There is limited parking available for this event - each campus will have a designated walk-through time as follows: 4-4:45 PM ECC (Infants, Toddlers, Primary), 5-5:45 PM Elementary 1, and 6-6:45 PM Elementary 2 and Middle School. If your family has students in different program levels, please choose one walk-through time to attend. Each person will get a ticket when they enter to VOTE for their favorite trunk!
SF
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October 17, 2022
Welcome back to class 218. We hope your break was restful and fulfilling!
Vision and Hearing Screenings: We will be doing vision and hearing screenings this Wednesday, October 19th for all 6th graders, new students and those in special education. If your student wears glasses, please make sure they wear them on Wednesday.
Art History Fair: Students were given their Art History Fair packets. The Art History Fair will be taking place the week of March 6th-10th between 10-11am, exact date TBD. Students are to choose an artist to research, write a biography, make an art project, and do a presentation. Please review the packet with your student and the due dates. The first due date is Friday, October 28th and it is the signed letter and artist choice.
School Pictures. School Pictures will be happening next Thursday, October 27th. Everyone needs to register their student before picture day. To register visit this link: Register for School Photos, click "Register for school photos," and enter Villa2022. Then click on the button that says "open album." You will be directed to a registration form that will allow you to register your child for school photos. Enter your name (parent name) and the child's name, and then select the appropriate class for the child. Add additional children if needed by clicking the "register another child" button.
Middle School ACE Building Open House: 6th grader families are welcome to the ACE building Open House this Wednesday, October 19th from 7-8:30 pm.
Homework: Students will be finishing up their review packet for homework this week and will be getting their next homework packet this Friday, October 21st.
Villa’s Trunk or Treat: Villa will be hosting a “Trunk or Treat” event free of charge on Saturday, October 29, happening at the Villa Elementary Field! For families attending the event, please park at ECC or Elementary Campus parking lots and enter through the Elementary Carline gates (look for signs/balloons). There is limited parking available for this event - each campus will have a designated walk-through time as follows: 4-4:45 PM ECC (Infants, Toddlers, Primary), 5-5:45 PM Elementary 1, and 6-6:45 PM Elementary 2 and Middle School. If your family has students in different program levels, please choose one walk-through time to attend. Each person will get a ticket when they enter to VOTE for their favorite trunk!
SF
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October 3, 2022
Field Trip: We will be taking our first class field trip to the Arizona Museum of Natural History this Thursday, October 6th. We will be leaving school around 9:30 am and returning for lunch around 12 pm. Thank you to the parent chaperones and drivers for volunteering their time and energy!
Rock Fish Party: This Friday, October 7th will be our first Rock Fish Party. Students are allowed to wear their pajamas and cozy clothes to school and participate in our Rock Fish Party activities (Barter Day and Movie selected by SF). Students may also bring one pillow and one blanket. Please review the Barter Day Rules below with your child
Fall Break is next week, Monday, October 10th – Friday, October 14th.
Homework: Students should have their homework folder completed by Friday. They will be getting a review packet Friday to start working on over break. One math lesson and one reading log is due the Monday we get back from break.
Whole Class Lessons Given in September (weeks 5-9)
Writing: Weekly Writing Prompts
September 26, 2022
Scholastic Book Fair: The Scholastic Book Fair is happening this week in the E2 library!
Students will have a chance to visit the book fair during school hours, but will need an adult with them if they plan to attend before or after school. Please make sure if your student brings money to school it is in a bag or something with their name on it, in case they misplace their money.
Book Fair Hours:
Monday, Wednesday, and Friday: 8am -5pm
Tuesday and Thursday: 7:30 am -2:30 pm
Field Trip: Our class field trip to the Arizona Museum of Natural History is next week on Thursday, October 6th. If you have not completed your student's permission slip yet, please do so by this Friday.
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Monday, September 19, 2022
Goal Setting Conferences: We will continue Goal Setting Conferences this week. This Friday, September 23rd is another Half-Day school will be out at 11:30 am.
If you have not done so already, please sign-up for a time to meet by clicking the following link
Scholastic Book Fair: The Scholastic Book Fair will be coming to the Villa Library next week, September 26th – September 30th! Check out more info here, Book Fair Homepage (scholastic.com)
Field Trip: We will be taking our first fieldtrip on Thursday, October 6th to the Arizona Natural History Museum. Permission slips were sent home already. Our Parent Chaperone list and drivers are full at this time, but feel free to reach out ot me if needed.
With Grace,
SF
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September 12, 2022
Goal Setting Conferences: This Friday, September 16th and next Friday, September 23rd are both half-days for Goal Setting Conferences. School will be out at 11:30 am.
The Goal Setting Conferences will be taking place out back of the classroom or in the classroom, Room 218, depending on the time. Students will be sharing their goals for the school year with parents and teacher.
If you have not signed-up yet please do so by clicking the following link,
If none of the available times work for you please email me and we can figure out another date and time to meet.
Homework: Students received new homework packets on Friday. Students should do one lesson per night, a calendar for when each lesson should be completed is in each homework folder. Please continue to check and initial your student’s math homework and reading log each night.
With kindness,
SF
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September 6, 2022- Week 5 of School
What a wonderful three day weekend to celebrate our hard working citizens. I hope you enjoyed this extra time with family and friends.
Goal Setting Conferences: We will be having Goal Setting Conferences Friday, September 16th and Friday, September 23rd, both days are half-days and school is out at 11:30 am. Goal setting conferences include the student, parents and teacher and are meant for the students to share their goals for this school year.
Please sign-up for a time to have a Goal Setting Conference by clicking the link below
Field Trip: We will be taking our first fieldtrip on Thursday, October 6th to the Arizona Natural History Museum. Permission slips will be sent home on Friday. We do need parent drivers and chaperones to help with the trip, please indicate on the permission slip if you are able to help out <3
Homework: Students will be finishing up their Rev-Up packets this week and will be getting their new homework packet this Friday, September 9th. Students continue to do one math lesson a night and at least 20 minutes of reading. In addition, students will complete a book report by the end of the month as well as prepare a meal by the end of the month. Finally, 4th graders will also begin their daily math facts log sheet.
Whole Class Lessons Given in August
Writing: Weekly Writing Prompts
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August 26th, week 4
Pizza Friday: Our first Pizza Friday will be this Friday, September 2nd. A big thank you to all our families that have signed up to be a Pizza Hero (pick up pizza and complete laundry).
Goal Setting Conferences: We will be having Goal Setting Conferences Friday, September 16th and Friday, September 23rd, both days are half days and school will be out at 11:30 am.
The conference will be with the student, parents and teacher. During this conference your child will share what they have achieved so far and what their goals are for the year. They will be sharing a goal setting sheet that they have completed prior to their conference.
Goal Setting Conferences will be in person . Morning conferences will be done in our back ODE (out door environment) as well as afternoon conferences will happen in the classroom, Room 218.
Here is the link for the sign-up,
No School Monday, September 5th for Labor Day. Have a nice three-day weekend!
SF
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Monday, August 22, 2022:
Parents, we have been settling into our cozy classroom and thriving. We have finished our summer book reports and started some of our group projects.
Pizza Friday: Pizza Friday will begin next Friday, September 2nd. If you have not done so already please turn in the Pizza Friday form by this Friday, August 26th. Please also notify me if your student will not be participating. If you would like to be a PIZZA FRIDAY HERO and sign up to pick up pizzas on Friday here is the link.
This Friday, August 26th is a Half-Day, for Staff Professional Development. All of the school will be dismissed at 11:30 am, No Circle.
Art Masterpiece: If anyone is interested in volunteering to be our class Art Masterpiece instructor this year you can sign up under the Parent Volunteer tab above. We have a Villa parent who will help you with the program as well.
<3
SF
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Friday, August 19, 2022
We had a great first two weeks of school. It was a pleasure to see many of you at parent orientation, and I've enjoyed getting to know our new 218 classroom community. We've started on a few classroom projects like "rock fish", " clubs", and our "class puzzle". We've also learned about the first 4 great Montessori Lessons, and started our investigations into geometry. I encourage you to ask your student about these activities.
Enrichments: Students had a preview of the enrichment classes that will be offered this year on Friday. You should have received an email on Friday as well with instructions on how to sign-up. Sign-ups started Monday, August 15th.
Volunteer Opportunities: Please view the sign-ups above for opportunities to sign-up in the classroom this year. Parent Volunteer Sign-Up has opportunities to come help in the classroom, the Helping Hands Sign-Up has items that you can donate to the classroom, and the Class Pet Sign-Up has opportunities to house Truffle for the weekend. Thank you so much for all that you have done already.
Homework: Students got their first homework folder on Friday, Aug. 12th. The first packet is a “Rev Up” packet which has review material from their previous grade level. Students are expected to complete one math lesson a night and read for at least 20 minutes. We ask that you support your child by checking their homework each night and initial on their reading log as well. We included a calendar for when each lesson is due and a checking key for parents in their folders.
If a student does not complete their homework or reading they will work on it during their mid-day recess time until it is completed.
Pizza Fridays: We will be starting having pizza Fridays on Friday, September 2nd. Forms to sign-up were in the Parent Orientation packet. Please return the completed form by Friday, August 26th. If you need support or a different payment plan please reach out to me by email at [email protected]
All my love,
SF
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August 3, 2022
Hello everyone! I hope you all have had a nice summer and are looking forward to the start of the new school year. A couple of things to note before we start school on Monday.
Open House:
First Day of School:
Summer Homework:
Parent Orientation:
Parent Volunteer Sign Up- Sign Up Genius
Feel free to sign up if you see an opportunity that interests you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to email me at [email protected]
With anticipation,
Sarahfina
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June 2nd
Families,
Thank you so much for your generous donation. It is lavish and I am speechless. We have had such a wonderful year together. Thank you Thank you Thank you.
Summer Homework
Students, I hope you have a great summer. I can’t wait to hear all your stories and adventures. This is your summer homework. Below you will see descriptions of the homework components for you to complete. Summer work must be completed when school starts. If you have unfinished work, you will be completing your homework during study hall.
During the summer, I will be away from my computer and checking emails intermittently. I encourage you to utilize our SF google chat and classmates for immediate support here
SF 218 Chat or https://mail.google.com/chat/u/0/#chat/space/AAAAv46gioY or my school email address [email protected]
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Have a great summer vacation!
SF
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Monday, May 16th:
Hello families,
We had a really fun time during our preview day. We are excited for next year and summer vacation to come. As we wind down for the end of the year, here are some upcoming activities for this week and next.
Summer Homework folders were passed out today. Students need to complete the following for summer homework:
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Monday, May 2, 2022
Overnight Trip: Next week, Monday, May 9th – Wednesday, May 11th is our overnight trip to Prescott, Arizona. Please make sure you have completed the online waiver form and returned any necessary medication form as soon as possible. A reminder page will be sent home this Thursday with important notes for the trip. You will need to pack a sack lunch for your student on Monday to be eaten when we arrive at the camp.
If you have any questions, please email me at [email protected]
This Friday, May 6th and next Friday, May 13th will be Half-Days, school will be out at 11:30 am.
Progress Reports: I will be emailing 2nd semester progress reports out by next week.
Upcoming dates in class 218:
Whole Class Lessons Given in January
Writing: Weekly Writing Prompts
April 25, 2022
Testing: Our class is doing the AASA ELA and Math tests today and tomorrow. I will be providing each student with a sugar-free mint and piece of gum each testing period. Students may also bring in their own sugar free gum or handy candy on testing days. Thank you to the families that have donated snacks to the class. We appreciate you.
The State Testing Schedule is as follows:
TIPS FOR SUCCESSFUL TESTING:
Science Fair: Students should now be working on their presentations for the Science Fair, which includes a tri-fold board, speech and live demonstration. Students will be presenting to the class starting this week on Wednesday. Parents are invited to come attend the class Science Fair happening on Thursday ,April 28th from 10 am -11 am in the Davis ODE area (by the library and circle room).
Overnight Trip: I have been informed that all participation forms need to be completed eletronicly for students to attended our class overnight trip to CampWay’s Friendly Pines camp in Prescott, Arizona. The trip will be happening Monday, May 9th – Wednesday, May 11th. I apologize for the miscommunication, but there is an easy solution! Here is a link to the form, Villa Montessori Liability Waivers (smartwaiver.com)
Also if your student takes medication please fill out and return the medication form and turn it in by this Friday, April 29th.
Upcoming dates in class 218
April 18, 2022
State Testing: Our class will be doing the AASA ELA and Math tests next week on Monday, April 25th and Tuesday, April 26th.. Students may bring in their own sugar free gum or handy candy on testing days. Thank you to the parent volunteers that have signed up to bring snacks for the class. We appreciate you.
In class we have been going over the practice tests, but if you would like your student to also practice at home you can find the practice tests here AASA | Arizona Department of Education (azed.gov)
The State Testing Schedule is as follows:
Monday, April 25 - ELA Part 1 in morning and Math Part 1 in the afternoon
Tuesday, April 26 - ELA Part 2 in the morning and Math Part 2 in the afternoon
TIPS FOR SUCCESSFUL TESTING:
The most important thing that you can do for your child during testing is making sure that they come to school on the days they have tests. Making up a missed test means time out of class and losing important learning time that cannot be made up. In addition to attendance, your child will do their best on the tests if they:
Science Fair Project: The next item due for the Science Fair project is the Final Draft of the Written Report due this Friday, April 22nd.
Students should also be working on making their presentation now which includes a tri-fold board, live demonstration, and oral presentation.
Students will be presenting once in class and then will also be presenting during a fair style time on Thursday, APril 28th. Parents are allowed to come to the fair style presentation on April 28th from 10 am – 11am, located in the Davis ODE area (outside area of building 2828A).
Villa Auction: Our class finished our class art auction items last week. We did a recycle art piece using a wood blook, upcycled string, and gently used nails to create a string art masterpiece. . Make sure to take some time to view the items through the online auction by clicking the following link Villa Montessori's Week of Giving 2022 - GalaBid The in-person Villa Auction is this Saturday, April 23rd.
Overnight Trip: We will be sending home a packet today for our class overnight trip to CampWay’s Friendly Pines camp in Prescott, Arizona. The trip will be happening Monday, May 9th – Wednesday, May 11th.
Included in the packet is a packing list, important information about the trip, and a waiver that needs to completed and returned by Friday, April 29th. Here is are final chaperone list.
"“Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.”
– No Name in the Street, James Baldwin".
SF
** I know it's a little late but here are the lessons we had in March and a few weeks into April**
Whole Class Lessons Given in January
Writing: Weekly Writing Prompts
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March 21, 2022
I hope everyone had a safe and enjoyable Spring Break!
Science Fair: Students should be working on their projects now and recording their data and observations in their Science Fair Journals. The next thing due is a Science Journal check today, March 22th.
Homework: Students should be completing Lesson 99 tonight to be turned in tomorrow and Lesson 100 is due this Wednesday, March 23 which will be the last lesson in this current math packet. Students will be getting a couple of weekly review packets for homework after completing the current packet. They should complete one lesson a night and continue to read at least 20 minutes per night.
State Testing Dates: Our class will be testing on the following days, please mark the dates on your calendar.
Tuesday, March 29th: AZSCI test (Science Test) for only the 5th graders
Wednesday, April 6th: AASA Writing Test for 4th, 5th and 6th graders
Monday, April 25th: AASA ELA and Math Part 1 test for 4th, 5th and 6th graders
Tuesday, April 26th: AASA ELA and Math Part 2 test for 4th, 5th and 6th graders
We have been going over the practice tests in class but if you would like your student to practice at home you can find the practice tests here AASA | Arizona Department of Education (azed.gov)
Our grant for raised beds and a community gardens was approved! Here is more information about it.
Happy Spring,
<3
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March 9, 2022
Overnight Payment Form: If you have not done so already, please turn in the red overnight payment form by this Wednesday, March 9th. Please indicate on the form if you want us to bill you through your monthly statement or attach a check to Villa Montessori for $150.
Pajama Day: This Friday, March 11th will be our next Pajama Day. Students may wear their pajamas to school. They may also bring one pillow and a blanket. If they would like to bring a movie to watch please make sure it is school appropriate and rated G or PG. We will select one movie together to watch Friday afternoon.
Lost and Found: Please remind your student to check the Lost and Found this week for any missing items. Items will be displayed in carline and students will have some time to check the items during their PE time. We will be donating the items left over on Friday, March 11th.
Science Fair: Students should be working on their projects now and recording their data and observations in their Science Fair Journals. The next thing due is a Science Journal check on Friday, March 25th.
Spring Break will be next week Monday, March 14th – Friday, March 18th.
There will be one math lesson, Lesson 98, and one reading log due when we return on Monday, March 21st.
"“I love myself when I am laughing. . ." Zora Neale Hurston
SF
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February 28, 2022
Overnight Payment Form: Today we are sending home the payment form for the Overnight Trip in the students’ Homework Folders. Please fill out the form and return no later than Wednesday, March 9th.
We have gotten many volunteers to be a chaperone on the trip. We will be doing a lottery to choose chaperones and alternates. We will notify chaperones this week if they were chosen.
Homework: Students should continue to do one math practice lesson and read for at least 20 minutes a night. Lesson 89 is due tomorrow, Tuesday, March 1st.
Science Fair: Students should now be starting their science experiments. They should be using their Science Journals they made in class to collect data and write down observations. They should also be taking pictures or making illustrations of the process. The next due date is March 22th and I will be doing a Science Journal check.
Whole Class Lessons Given in January
Writing: Weekly Writing Prompts
Current Events: Given the current events happening in Ukraine, the children may have questions. I will encourage them to talk to their parents. You may find this article helpful in speaking to your child.
https://www.nytimes.com/2022/02/25/well/family/kids-teens-ukraine-russia.html
All my love,
SF
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January 31, 2022
PTO Fun Run: The PTO Fun Run was a huge success! As a class, we raised $110.17 per lap. The incentives the students earned will happen the week of February 22nd. Individual prizes will be mailed out this month
AASA Writing Field Test: All students in Grades 3-8 will participate in a Stand-Alone Field Test for Writing, our class will be taking the test this Thursday, February 3, 2022. Makeups will happen February 16-18, 2022.
Science Fair: This semester students will be completing a project for the Science Fair. Packets are being sent home today in students’ Communication Folders. Please review the packet with your student. The first item due is the signed letter which is due this Friday, February 4th.
Valentine Grams: If you have not so already please send in a bag of Hershey kisses to donate to our E2 Valentine Grams fundraiser
Overnight Trip: This year we will be bringing back the overnight trip. We will be going by whole class this year rather than by grade level. We are going to attend Friendly Pines in Prescott, AZ through the CampWay program from Monday, May 9th – Wednesday, May 11th. The cost to attend the overnight trip is $150 per student.
More information about the trip is being sent home today in your student’s communication folder. You can also go visit the website at https://gocampway.com/friendly-pines for more details about the site.
Please review the information and return the second page by Friday, February 18th.
Whole Class Lessons Given in January
Writing: Weekly Writing Prompts
January 10, 2022
Parents, welcome to week 20 of school. It has been fun coming back to the classroom and showing our new assistant Ren the wonderous atmosphere of room 218. My focus has been on setting Ren up for success this week and I apologize for not sending our a sign up genius for parent teacher conference earlier.
Parent Teacher Conferences: Parent Teacher Conferences start this Friday, January 14th. Friday will be a Half-Day and school will be out at 11:30 am.
Middle School Meeting: For 6th grade parents, the Middle School will be doing a virtual presentation to educate current 6th grade parents on the Middle School program for the coming school year. It will be happening this Thursday, January 13, 2022 from 6:30-8:00 P.M.
Time: Jan 13, 2022 06:30 PM Arizona
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86092676696?pwd=c2JxM0R1aDZBcEdRNWFCUGZyWVBUdz09
Meeting ID: 860 9267 6696
Passcode: g9PNW8
Homework: Students should be finishing their math homework folder this week, the last lesson in their current folder, Lesson 60, is due Thursday morning.
Rock Fish Party- Students have earned another rock fish party. They have chosen to host a Barter Day this Friday and would like to have an outing to the park next Friday. We are looking for at least 5 parent volunteers to walk students to the park next Fri the 14th. Please email me if you are interested in helping :)
No School Monday, January 17th in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
Please feel free to email me with any questions, comments, or concerns
SF
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December 17, 2021
Families, thank you so much for your gifts, words of encouragement, kindness, and support. I feel greatly loved and appreciated.
Cookie Decorating Activity- Our cookie decorating activity was a success. Students should be bringing home their sweet treats today. Thank you for the cookies, icing, sprinkles and a special thanks to our Volunteers <3
Ugly Sweater Party- We had a blast having our first annual ugly sweater party. We celebrated the spirit of community and generosity with a secret Santa exchange and sharing our wishes for the 2022 year. The kids had a great time.
Novel Study: Next semester we will begin our novel studies. More information to come.
Homework: Over the Winter Break students should be completing one math lesson, Lesson 52, and one reading log.
Winter Break: Monday, December 20th – Friday, December 31st
School Resumes: Monday, January 3rd, 2022
I hope everyone has a wonderful Winter Break and a Happy New Year!
SF
December 3rd, 2021
Families,
We made it to December. This is my favorite time of the year, and not just because it's my birthday month. I love how communities come together to share celebrations, thankfulness, Yule tidings, and more. Here are a few announcements below.
Pot Luck Brunch: We will be holding our Pot luck on Saturday Dec. 11th on campus. More details from our parent coordinator will come soon. We hope to see you there!
Food Drive: Our 6th graders are continuing their food drive service project. Please continue to donate any available items. The final day for the food drive will be Sat. Dec 11th at the conclusion of the Pot Luck Brunch.
Homework: Students received new homework math folders this week, as well as new reading log (focus on non-fiction/informational texts) and a meal project. Please reach out with any questions.
Cookie Decorating Activity: This year we will be hosting a cooking decorating activity outside on Dec 17th before we leave for break. More details to come soon.
Cultural Lessons given in October: (all lessons are posted in Google Classroom and available for review)
Geography/ History
-5 Regions of the USA
- North East
-West
-South
-South West
-Mid West
-Ancient City Planning Presentations (Create your own city)
Science
- Nutrition in plants
-Circulation "The upword Flow"
-The Scientific Method (experiments
-#7: Ascent of Liquids in the Plant
-#6: Ascent of Liquids in the Plant
-#7a:Capillarity
-#8: Transpiration )
Read aloud/Enrichment
- HERD museum exploration and discovery
Editing theme and Weekly Writing prompts
-Social Studies Article- Gold!
-Science Article-Electric Energy
-Science Article: Terrific Teeth
"Let us choose for ourselves our path in life, and let us try to strew that path with flowers."— Emilie du Chatelet, mathematician, physicist, and author"
SF
November 15, 2021
Donations: This time of the year the Villa Community has many opportunities for people to donate items to different charities. Below are some opportunities for donations.
PTO Book Drive: If you have any books to donate to the PTO Book Drive a parent will be parked in the Elementary parking lot during Carline time this week.
Girl Scouts Food Drive: The Girl Scouts are doing a can food drive. They will have collection boxes at Elementary Carline. They are collecting non-perishable donations, November 15 - 23. These foods will benefit our neighbors in the Creighton School District.
6th Grade Service Project- St Mary's Food Bank: Our 6th graders will be creating a service project to collection food donations to St. Mary's food. More details to come soon.
Homework: Students should be continuing to do one math lesson and at least 20 minutes of reading a night. Lesson 34 is due tomorrow, Tuesday, November 16th.
SF
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November 3, 2021
I hope everyday had a fun weekend. We are heading straight into November with a great heart and a great attitude. I've seen a great deal of teamwork. collaboration, and communication throughout the classroom. Nice work class.
Here are a few announcements
School Picture make up day: Nov. 9th
Homework: Students got a new math homework folder on Friday. Students should be turning in Lesson 23 this morning and continue to do one math lesson and at least 20 minutes of reading each night, Monday-Friday.
Candy and Toys in the classroom: A gentle reminder to refrain from bringing toys or candy to school.
Cultural Lessons given in October: (all lessons are posted in Google Classroom and available for review)
Geography/ History
-Bering Land Bridges
-4 regions of Native America in the U.S.A
-Pacific Northwest
-Plains
-Eastern Woodlands
-Southwest
Science
- The Nitrogen Cycle
- "Menu" of the plant
- Roots-water seekers
-Roots-water seekers experiments and the scientific method
Read aloud/Creative Writing
- Native American Stories
-Spooky Stories
-writer's circle
Editing theme and Weekly Writing prompts
-Social Studies Article- Everglades
-Science Article-Arrowhead in Space
-Social Studies Article: A Monumental Tribute
"“Not everything that is faced can be changed; but nothing can be changed until it is faced,” James Baldwin 1962
SF
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Oct 27th,
Hello families. It was a pleasure to see many of you at the Halloween Social. If anyone took pictures, please feel free to add them to my class Shutterfly account. To add photos go to Shutterfly | Photo Books, Cards, Prints, Wall Art, Gifts, Wedding login with username: [email protected] and the password: Shutterfly218
Here are a few updates and reminders.
"“Love takes off the masks that we fear we cannot live without and know we cannot live within," James Baldwin, The Fire Next Time (1963).
SF
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Oct 18th,
Monday, October 18th:
Families, thank you so much for the vacation souvenirs and stories! We have had a delightful day in class sharing about our fall break experiences. Here are a few updates
Register for School Photos
**Parents, please navigate to this link, click on Register for School Photos, enter access
code Villa2021 then click on the button that says "open album". You will be directed to a
registration form that will allow them to register their children for school photos. Then you will
select the class your child is in to complete registration. You can click the + at the bottom of the
page to register more than one child.
SF
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September 30th,
Families, we have finally made it through goal setting conferences. Great job all around.
Pizza Friday: Tomorrow Friday, October 1st will be the first Pizza Friday day for our class! Thank you to the parents who have already signed up to pick up pizza. As a reminder we are only serving pizza, so snacks and drinks are encouraged to be brought from home.
Home cooking project: It has been a pleasure seeing the cooking projects happening at home.
Book genre: October- Mystery
Looking ahead: Fall break Oct 11th- 15th
Whole Class Lessons Given in September
Cultural Lessons given in August: (all lessons are posted in Google Classroom and available for review)
Geography
-Maps
-population density
- Climate/Weather maps
- Water conservation
Science
- The Father of Modern Taxonomy
- Vital Functions
- The 4 elements of life research and presentations
History
-Sacred Origin Stories discussion and presentations
Read aloud
- Native American Stories (Origin, earth, fire, water, and Air)
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September 7th,
Hello families,
We are settling back into our classroom routines and already have some sprouts coming up in our garden! Here are some class updates
Fall Parent Conferences:
Families, we will be hosting Fall Parent Conferences via zoom on sept 17th and 24th. We will be discussing your student’s goals for the year, as well as other teacher recommendations. Please use the following link to sign
up for a time slot.
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090F4FAEAD29A6F58-fall
Pizza Friday:
Pizza Friday will be back this year! We will be getting pizza for our students every Friday starting on October
1st. Forms and payment information were sent home in your student’s Communication Folder this week. There
are three options to make payment:
Full Year of Pizza Friday = $120 due by Sept. 20th
First Half of Year = $50 due by Sept. 20th
Second Half of Year = $70 due by Jan 7th
Cultural Lessons given in August: ( all lessons are posted in Google Classroom and available for review)
(5) Great Lessons
The beginning of the universe
Life comes to earth
The Coming of Humans
History of Writing
Timeline of Numbers
Geography Maps
Latitude and Longitude
Types of Maps
5 Maps themes
Science
6 Kingdoms of life
Comparison and Contrast (Kingdoms of life)
History
Human Migration
Sacred Origin Stories
SF
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September 1st,
Families,
Thank you for your well wishes. We are back home in our classroom, loving our new color box.
This month our Book Talk genre is Classics. "To be generally agreed upon as a classic, works meet some common high standards for quality, appeal, longevity, and influence."
Here are some lists of common classic books for 9-12 year olds
https://www.readbrightly.com/classics-8-to-12-year-olds-say-are-worth-reading-today/
Anne of Green Gables
Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland
Little House in Big Woods
The Secret Garden
The Children of Green Knowe
Charlotte’s Web
Little Women
The Little Prince
Black Beauty
Adventures of Huckleberry Finn
Little Princess
Wind in the Willows
Heidi
The Railway Children
Treasure Island
Oliver Twist
Adventures of Tom Sawyer
Rebecca of SunnyBrook Farm
What Katy Did
Peter Pan
From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler
The Wonderful Wizard of Oz
The Swiss Family Robinson
The Hundred Dresses
Danny the Champion of the World
Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry
Where the Red Fern Grows
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Aug 27th,
Hello families,
Today we have a half day for all the children, including circle.
We will also start homework today. Students will be completing 1 math page and 20 mins of reading (recorded with reading logs). Our goal is to read a different genre each month and have a small "talk" after your student finishes their novel. I have attached digital copies in my parent email for your resource as well.
Have a great weekend!
SF
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Aug 19th 2021,
Whoooo oooooo!!!
What a week we have had. Our garden beds (filled to the brim with soil) are so happy for Monsoon season, but our classroom is not. We have had water damage and leakage all week. What started as a little trickle turned into a complete downpour. It caused quite the commotion in the room.
We have relocated to the circle room and library room for the time being. Hopefully, our restoration contractors can fix the room over the weekend. We have been focusing on patience, flexibility, trust, and the power of positive thinking. Feel free to share your positive thinking with me, it's been a bit of a stressful week haha!!
Looking ahead
-August 23- Specials Start
-August 27 - half day
-August 27 - nightly homework begins / first book talk due - folklore (in class)
-September 6 - No School
All my love,
SF
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Aug 10th,
Dear Parents,
This first week is going well. There have been smiles, laughter, and a lot of creativity! I can't wait to see how the rest of the school year unfolds. I will be adding an additional page with Parent Orientation information for you to review. It will be the same information used during the optional Virtual Open house on Thursday, Aug 12th at 6:30 (zoom link below)
Topic: SF Parent Meeting
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us04web.zoom.us/j/78965374693?pwd=OVd5T1VadWlFZ1hub2xrM01PMURvdz09
Below are a few reminders.
August 9 - First day of school / Summer homework due
August 12 - 6:30pm Parent Orientation (Zoom)
August 27 - half day
August 27 - nightly homework begins / first book talk due - folklore (in class)
September 6 - no School
With Gratitude,
SF
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Wednesday, Aug 4th, 2021
Families, can you believe that school starts next week!? There is so much excitement in the air here at school. We are busy prepping the classroom and getting ready for another fantastic year.
Here are a few reminders
-There is an optional open house for students on Friday, August 6th from 1:00-2:00
- School Starts on Monday, August 9th
- There will be a parent orientation night Thursday August 12th from 6:30-7:30 via zoom (link will be
sent out at a later time)
-Our class will be using google classroom as a Montessori Enrichment tool. Please use the code below
https://classroom.google.com/c/Mzc0MDEzNzMxNTU4?cjc=t5a2qpz
All my love,
SF
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Thursday, June 22nd, 2021
Hello families of 218,
I hope you all are having a fantastic summer break. I can’t believe we’ll be back in session starting Monday August 9th.
We will have a few changes in the classroom, as Ms. C has taken a position at another school to work as a lead in her own room. We are proud of you Caroline and will miss you dearly. Your class is lucky to have you. Our new classroom assistant Dylan has had experience as an substitute teacher, mindfulness instructor, art teacher, and various other roles that showcase their great-hearted approach to learning and children. I’m so excited for our community to embrace and get to know them soon.
As we are still uncertain how COVID-19 procedures will look like in the fall, I am preparing the classroom with both Google Classroom and hands on materials in the room. Please use the following link to access the Sarahfina 218 2021-2022 google classroom. Feel free to take a peek!
https://classroom.google.com/c/Mzc0MDEzNzMxNTU4?cjc=t5a2qpz
I will be sending out another welcome letter in a few weeks with more details about the school year. I will be available for more communication Aug. 2nd-6th.
All my love,
SF
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Wednesday, May 27, 2021
Well, it has been a whirlwind of a year. I cannot thank the families enough for your resilience, trust, support, and love. A big THANK YOU to families to donated to the end of the year teacher gift. I cannot express enough gratitude for everyone's genrousitioy.
Summer Homework: Summer homework for returning 4th and 5th graders were sent home last week. Remote learners who will be returning can pick up their summer homework packets in carline, they will be in my teacher box. 6th graders will be getting summer homework from the middle school. There are digital copies located in the google classroom as well.
Class photos and videos: In the google classroom are some class videos and a class photo. Please enjoy!
Have a wonderful summer and bring back stories to share in the fall <3 <3 <3 <3
SF
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May 17. 2021
Great Lives Project: Students will be presenting their Great Lives Projects in class next week, please see the list below showing when your student signed-up to present. If you would like to zoom in for your students presentation, please email me and I will send you a link.
Monday, May 17th: Kai, Maddox, Nathan, Keane
Tuesday, May 18th: Grady, Kali Lev, Ainsley, Maddie, Cash
Wednesday, May 19th: Meadow, Hilton, Kyra, Brooklyn, Georgia,
Thursday, May 20th: Lyla, Ateng, Rebecca, Arion, Stella,
Friday, May 21th: ( none due to 6th grade celebrations)
Monday, May 24th: Hudson, Elisa, Altana, Xavier, Aiden,
This Friday, May 21st we will be doing the 6th grade celebration over Zoom at 10:00 AM. 6th grade parents are welcome to join, here is the link
Topic: Sarahfina Fore's Zoom Meeting
Time: This is a recurring meeting Meet anytime
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us04web.zoom.us/j/72225906965?pwd=Q1RpUTFSdUxBTHNFTGQwejNDU2srQT09
Meeting ID: 722 2590 6965
Passcode: 6VDzZs
6th grade parents: 6th graders will be walking to the middle school next week to take a tour of their new campus. Students got a permission slip last week, please sign and return by this Friday, May 21st.
Students going to Orlando will be going on Monday, May 24th
Students going to Campbell will be going on Tuesday, May 25th
Next Wednesday, May 26th will be the last day of school. Next week we will be having the students clean the classroom and take home their work/supplies. Please have your student bring in an extra bag to take their things home in next week.
Parent Coordinator: A big THANK YOU to Kylie TenBrook for being our class parent coordinator this year! If anyone is interested in being the class parent coordinator next year, please email me at [email protected]
Summer Homework: We will be passing out summer homework this week. Returning 4th and 5th grade students will be getting homework packets from me, 6th graders will be getting their homework from the middle school.
Remote learners that will be returning next year can pick up their packets in carline this week, in my teacher’s box.
All my love,
SF
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Monday May 19th , 2021
Progress Reports: At this time, all progress reports have been sent home. Students have reviewed their progress report and should be talking to you about them at home, as well as sharing their favorite lesson from the year.
Great Lives Project: Students will be presenting their Great Lives Projects in class next week, please see the list below of when your student signed-up to present.
Monday, May 17th: Kai, Maddox, Nathan, Keane
Tuesday, May 18th: Grady, Kali Lev, Ainsley, Maddie, Cash
Wednesday, May 19th: Meadow, Hilton, Kyra, Brooklyn, Georgia,
Thursday, May 20th: Lyla, Ateng, Rebecca, Arion, Stella,
Friday, May 21th: ( none due to 6th grade celebrations)
Monday, May 24th: Hudson, Elisa, Altana, Xavier, Aiden,
Old School Ice Cream Truck: The Old School Ice Cream Truck is coming to Villa Wednesday, May 12th and Thursday, May 13th. Please make sure you sign your student’s permission slip and turn it by May 10th.
Tea Party: Our class will be hosting a Tea party to honor our 6th graders this week. Please feel free to encourage costumes and decorations!
Next Friday, May 14th will be a Half-Day, school will be out by 11:30 am.
6th Grade Graduation Celebration: Due to 6th grade shadow days, we will be having our 6th grade graduations on Friday, May 21st at 10:00. Will be be using the following zoom link for parents to watch! Sarahfina Fore is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us04web.zoom.us/j/72225906965?pwd=Q1RpUTFSdUxBTHNFTGQwejNDU2srQT09
All my love,
SF
<3
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May 5th, 2021
Happy Cinco De Mayo! Today we continue to integrate diversity and celebrate our different heritages with learning about the real history of Cinco de Mayo. I encourage you to talk to your student about some of the activities and lessons we had today.
6th Grade Celebration update:
We will be rescheduling our 6th grade celebration to Friday, May 21st at 10:00. This is due to Middle
School shadow days on May 24th (Orlando) and May 25th (Campbell). I apologize for the change of date,
but the decision to have shadow days was just approved. Here is a note from our 6th grade
leaders.
" Dear Parents,
The sixth grade graduation (previously taking place on May 25th) will now be held on May 21st, Friday
in the morning (please make sure to help your sixth grader out on their picture slideshow, video or
poster board.). Shadow Day is on the 24th and 25th, the reason for the change of dates. The details for
it will be sent out soon.
Thank you for your support,
The sixth graders"
<3
SF
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Monday, May 3, 2021
In Person Homework:
New math homework folders were sent home on Friday. Students should continue to do one math lesson.
It is also suggested to add 20 minutes of reading a night. Students should be completing Lesson 82
tonight for homework.
Ice Cream Social: Since we weren’t able to do our normal Ice Cream Social we will be having the Old School Ice Cream Bus come to Villa on May 12th and May 13th to allow students to pick out a treat.
We are asking for an optional donation of $5 and are sending a permission slip home today for you to sign. Please let us know if your student has any dietary restrictions on their permission slip. The treats that will
be available are on the back of the permission slip as well.
Please return the permission slips by Monday, May 10th.
Great Lives Projects:
Final papers are due today. Now, students should be focusing on completing their 3-5 minute presentation
with a visual aide (either a slideshow or tri-fold board) and their 3D Projects.
Everything is due the week of May 10th. Students will be signing up for a day to present to the
class this week.
Progress Reports:
I will be emailing 2nd semester Progress Reports by the end of day, Friday the 7th (5/7/21). Next Friday
(5/17/21) we will be offering optional conferences via zoom. I have already personally contacted the
families I need) to speak with and have coordinated meeting times. If I haven't contacted your family, that
means I feel confident in your students progress and have no concerns at this time. However, if you
have any questions or concerns and would like to set up a meeting time, please respond to my Progress
Report email and I will send you a sign up genius link.
This Friday, May 7th and next Friday, May 14th will be Half-Days, school will be out at 11:30 am.
Happy May!
<3 SF
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April 26, 2021
Parents and students, great cooperation during AzM2 testing. Way to go!
AZM2 Testing: Remote Learners are finishing their testing this week.
Monday: 4th, 5th , and 6th graders in remote learning are taking the ELA portion at school
Tuesday: 4th, 5th, and 6th graders in remote learning are taking the Math portion at school
Great Lives Project: Students should now be working on completing their 3D project and 3-5 minute presentation which includes a visual aide (either a tri-fold board or slideshow), requirements and rubrics are in the Great Lives packet. 3-D Projects and presentations will be due the week of May 10th. *** a reminder that the final rough draft has been extended to May 3rd.
SF
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Friday, April 16th
Auction Art Item: to celebrate our community and diversity, we decided to use recycled cloth to make a hand braided rug. We are excited for this item to find a good home.
Testing:
In Person Learners will be testing next week. The schedule is as follows:
Monday, April 19th: Writing, 4-6th graders
Tuesday, April 20th: ELA, 4th-6th graders
Wednesday, April 21st: Math, 4th-6th graders
Thursday, April 22nd: Science, only 5th graders
During testing days please make sure your student comes to school ON TIME, and remains in attendance for the full day on the days they have tests.
In addition to attendance, your child will do their best on the tests if they
· Get to bed early the night before to be well-rested on the day of the test
· Have a good breakfast on the morning of the test
· Be adequately hydrated and
· Stay positive!
Since we will be testing on Tuesday, we will not be having a Zoom Meet with remote learners on Tuesday, April 20th.
Remote Learners will continue testing on the following days:
Friday, April 23rd: Science, only 5th graders
Monday, April 26th: ELA, 4th-6th graders
Tuesday, April 27th: Math, 4th-6th graders
Homework: In Person Learners will not have homework due next week Monday, April 19th – Friday, April 23rd because of testing. Instead students should be working on their Great Lives Projects. They should be completing their final drafts, 3D projects, and visual presentations. The Final Draft is due Monday, May 3rd.
I hope everyone had a nice three-day weekend! I know I definitely needed the extra rest to get over "cold and flu" season. Spring and Spring Break is right around the corner, how exciting!
- Pizza Friday: We still need a family to sign-up to bring in Pizza Friday snack this Friday. If you would like to bring in Pizza Friday snack this Friday or another time this year, please click the following link
- https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c044daba62ea0ff2-beapizza#/
- Homework: Students should have turned in two review lessons today. Their whole math packet should be completed by this Friday. They will be getting a new homework packet this Friday as well.
- Great Lives Fair: Students should be working on their final drafts, presentations, tri-fold boards and projects in the coming weeks. Students may work on these items during school, they just need to bring in their own supplies. I will be editing rough drafts this week in class and going over tri-fold board requirements. Everything is due Monday, March 4th.
- We will be having the Great Lives Fair
- Friday, March 8th between 10-11 am
- parents and family are welcome to come between 10-11
- parents and family are welcome to come between 10-11
- Friday, March 8th between 10-11 am
- We will be having the Great Lives Fair
- Spirit Week: Spirit Week and Safety week will be happening next week. The students will be earning the days they earned from the PTO Fun Run. We will also be going over our safety drills and procedures, as well as, celebrating Pink Shirt Day
- Monday, February 26th – Friday, March 1st
- Monday, February 26th: Mismatch Day, wear mismatched clothing, socks, t-shirts backwards or inside out etc.
- Tuesday, February 27th: Crazy Sock Day, wear your craziest socks
- Wednesday, February 28th: Pink Shirt Day, wear pink in support of anti-bullying
- Thursday, February 29th: Fancy Pants Day, wear your fanciest clothing
- Friday, March 1st: Free Day, with an hour of game time
- Make sure to follow the school dress code, no visible under garments or offensive pictures or words.
- Monday, February 26th: Mismatch Day, wear mismatched clothing, socks, t-shirts backwards or inside out etc.
- Monday, February 26th – Friday, March 1st
February 2nd, 2024
Report Cards: At this time all Report Cards have been sent home with the children. Thank you all for your patience and flexibility in these trying times in class 218. If there are follow up meetings, emails, or other topics from conferences please send a gentle reminder and I will get back to you as soon as I can.
Valentine Grams: If you have not done so already, please send in a bag of Hershey kisses to donate to our E2 Valentine Grams fundraiser.
Valentine's Day is around the corner...time to send your loved ones a little treat - or perhaps show some appreciation for your favorite teacher or administrator?
We will continue to offer the Smencils- delicious smelling pencils.
We’re excited about this fun, eco-friendly treat that we know all kids & adults will love. The Tiny Plush Animals are also available again!
Valentine Grams are on sale February 1st- February 14th
Kisses $3
Smencil $3
Kisses + Smencil $5
Tiny Plush $5
Tiny Plush + Kisses $6
Tiny Plush + Kisses + Smencil $8
- Our class 6th graders will be helping to sell Valentine Grams the morning of , February 12th. If any parents would like to volunteer to help them sell valentines please email me <3
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January 8, 2024
Conferences: Conferences start this Friday, January 12th and will continue next week. This Friday and next Friday will both be half-days for conferences and school will be out at 11:30 am. The conferences are student led and include the parent and teacher. Please sign-up for a time to meet by clicking the sign-up above. Progress reports will be emailed at least 24 hours prior to the conference.
Pizza Friday: If you did not pay in full the second payment of $90 is due Friday, January 19th. A half sheet was passed out last week in student’s homework folders if you need to send in the second payment.
You may either make a check payable to Sarahfina Fore, send in cash, or Venmo me (please email for code).
Novel Study: On Thursday, our Grade level Grammar lessons are converting into our Novel Study grade level lessons.
Valentine Grams: The E2 Fundraiser for Valentine Grams will be starting soon. We ask that each family bring in a bag of Hershey kisses (no nuts please) to help contribute to the fundraiser.
We also need volunteers to help, if you would like to help, please click the following link to sign-up.
This link is to help assemble Grams at home: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090F4FAEAD29A6F58-valentine4#/
Thank you for your support!
Next Monday, January 16th there is No School in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
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January 3, 2024
Conferences: Conferences start next Friday, January 12th and will continue on Friday, January19th. Both Fridays will be half-days for conferences and school will be out at 11:30 am. The conferences are student led and include the parent and teacher. Please sign-up for a time to meet by clicking the sign-up provided in your parent emails. Progress reports will be emailed at least 24 hours prior to the conference.
Homework: Students will continue to do one math lesson a night and 20 minutes of nightly reading.
Great Lives Project: The next due date for the Great Lives Project, is Friday January, 26th. The outline and project proposal are due. We went over both in class before break, if your student needs another copy have them ask me in class for a new one.
SF
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November 20, 2023
- PTO Gratitude Breakfast: Join us tomorrow on November 21st for some sunshine and socialization! Bring your own breakfast, and the PTO will provide the hot cocoa. The event will take place from 7:30 - 8:30 a.m. on the E2 courtyard, next to the swings.
- Barter Day: Tomorrow Tuesday, November 21st E2 will be doing a Barter Day in the afternoon. Students may bring in a pillowcase full of items that they would like to barter/trade. We ask that all items be school appropriate, any games or movies should be rated G or PG, and all items should be approved by parents to be bartered.
No School Wednesday, November 22nd- Friday, November 24th for Thanksgiving Break.
- Homework: Students received Math Homework Review packets last week, the first review lesson will be due Monday, November 27th. There will be no math homework due this week, students should continue to read 20 minutes a night.
- Students should also be working on their research notecards for their Great Lives Fair. I will be checking-off student notecards on Friday, December 8th.
Happy Feasting, I hope you all get rest and relaxation. We all earned it!
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October 23, 2023
- Overnight Trip: CampWay, March 27-29, 2024
- On this trip, students will travel by charter bus to Prescott, Arizona, for a two-night stay at CampWay, which is a STEM-based camp. They will participate in various team building, outdoor education, and science activities.
- As a reminder, tomorrow is the last day to complete the E2 Overnight payment form. If we do not receive an answer, you will be added to the payment plan by default.
- We realize that making payments can be difficult, and at no point do we want a child to miss this educational experience. If your family cannot afford the cost of this trip, please contact the Finance office. The total cost for the class trip is $230.00.
- We are offering several payment options and need to know each family's decision for attendance and payment. Please fill out the online payment form below by Wednesday, October 25th.
- https://www.villamontessori.com/apps/form/CampWay2023
- Scholastic Book Fair: next week, Monday, October 30th – Friday, November 3rd.
- Parents need to sign-in through the front office and get a visitor badge, if they will be attending the book fair. You may park on Meadowbrook if need be.
- BOOKFAIR HOURS:
- MONDAY – 7:00 – 2:30
- TUESDAY – 8:00 – 5:30
- WEDNESDAY – 7:00 – 2:30
- THURSDAY – 7:00 – 2:30
- FRIDAY – 8:00 – 5:30
- You can check out the book fair’s homepage here, https://bookfairs.scholastic.com/bf/villamontessori1
- If you would like to help and volunteer at the book fair please sign-up here, https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090F4FAEAD29A6F58-44700224-2023#/
- Trunk or Treat: This Saturday, October 28th will be Villa’s Trunk or Treat at the Elementary Field.
- Each campus will have a designated walk-through time as follows:
- 4:00 - 4:45 PM - ECC (Infants, Toddlers, Primary, Kindergarten),
- 5:00 - 5:45 PM - Elementary I (1st - 3rd grade)
- 6:00 - 6:45 PM - Elementary II and Middle School (4th - 8th grade)
- If your family has students in different program levels, please choose one walk-through time to attend. Each person will get a ticket when they enter to VOTE for their favorite trunk!
- There is limited parking available for this event; please park at ECC or Elementary Campus parking lots and enter through the Elementary Carline gates (look for signs/balloons).
- We can’t wait to celebrate! Don’t forget to wear a costume!!
- You can still sign-up to donate candy or help out at the event, https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090F4FAEAD29A6F58-44521879-trunk#/
- Each campus will have a designated walk-through time as follows:
- 6th Grade Parents Only: Middle School Parent Information Meeting- Thursday, November 2nd from 6:30 pm- 8 pm.
- This meeting is for parents only and will go over the middle school curriculum and experience. A flyer for the event is being sent home as well in your student’s communication folder.
Enjoy,
SF
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October 16, 2023
I hope everyone had a nice and enjoyable Fall Break!
Vision and Hearing Screening:
- This Wednesday, October 18th we will be doing Vision and Hearing Screenings. All 6th grade students, new students to Villa and those with a special education plan will be tested. If your student wears glasses, please make sure they wear them on Wednesday.
Great Lives Fair:
- This year we are doing the Great Lives Fair as our big project. Students will pick someone who made a positive impact on the world and do a report on them. They will be presenting their report and projects at the Great Lives Fair that will be happening the week of March 6th.
- We will pass out the Great Lives Fair packets Thursday in the students’ communication folders. Please review the information and go over it with your student.
- The first due date is Friday, October 27th which is your student’s pick and signature page.
Homework:
- Students should be working on their review packets for math this week, they will be getting a new packet of homework this Friday, October 20. Students should also continue to read 20 minutes nightly and practice their high frequency spelling words.
Scholastic Book Fair will be happening the week of Monday, October 30th – Friday, November 3rd.
Happy Fall,
SF
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October 2, 2023
- Pizza Friday: We will be having Pizza Friday this Friday, October 6th.
- Homework: Students should be finishing their math homework packets by the end of this week; Lesson 20 is due this Friday. We will be handing out review packets on Friday as well.
- Next week is Fall Break, October 9th-13th. School resumes on Monday, October 16th and Review Lesson 1 will be due along with 20 minutes of reading
Whole Class Lessons Given in September
Writing: Weekly Writing Prompts
- Letters-Invitations
- Realistic Fiction- Letters
- Historical Fiction- A New Life in Old California
- Social Studies Article-Lewis, Clark, and Sacagawea
- Social Studies Article- The Everglades
- Human Odyssey
- The Great River
- Human Odyssey
- Hispanic Heritage Month
- Latitude and Longitude
September 11, 2023
Families, thank you all for your well wishes, unity, and support over the last week. It means a great deal to me and makes my own emotional processing easier. As we move forward as a united class, I want to also acknowledge our children and their greatness. Thank you all for showing up for us and our community.
- Science Special:
- This week students will be starting the Science Special on Wednesday mornings before they have PE.
- Goal Setting Conferences:
- We will be having Goal Setting Conferences Friday, September 22nd and Friday, September 29th, both days are half-days and school is out at 11:30 am.
- Goal setting conferences include the student, parents and teacher and are meant for the students to share their goals for this school year.
- Please sign-up for a time to have a Goal Setting Conference by clicking the link below
- https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090F4FAEAD29A6F58-sarahfinas3#/
- If none of the available times work for you please email me and we can figure out another date and time to meet.
- https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090F4FAEAD29A6F58-sarahfinas3#/
- Homework:
- Students received new homework packets on Monday.
- Students should do one lesson per night, a calendar for when each lesson should be completed is in each homework folder.
- Please continue to check and initial your student’s math homework and reading log each night.
- This Friday, September 15th is a Half-Day for the whole school, No Circle. School will be out at 11:30 am.
<3
SF
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September 7, 2023
I hope everyone had a nice three-day weekend! I rested and explored some of our downtown urban gardening.
- Goal Setting Conferences: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090F4FAEAD29A6F58-sarahfinas3
- We will be having Goal Setting Conferences Friday, September 22nd and Friday, September 29th.
- Both days are half-days and school is out at 11:30 am.
- Goal setting conferences include the student, parents and teacher and are meant for the students to share their goals for this school year.
- Please sign-up for a time to have a Goal Setting Conference by clicking the link above labeled Goal Setting Conference Sign-Up.
- We will be having Goal Setting Conferences Friday, September 22nd and Friday, September 29th.
- Homework: Students will be finishing up their Rev-Up packets this week and will be getting their new homework packet this Friday, September 8th. Students continue to do one math lesson a night and at least 20 minutes of reading.
Whole Class Lessons Given in August (wEEKS 1-5)
- Beginning of the Year Lessons
- 4 Agreements
- 5 Great Lessons
- The Beginning of the Universe
- Life Comes to Earth
- The Coming of Humans
- The Timeline of Writing
- The Timeline of Numbers
- Writing
- Daily Editing/ Weekly Writing Prompts
- Social Studies Article: Kites—Not Just for Fun
- Science Article: How Traits Travel
- Editorial: Uniforms Are Not the Answer
- Letters: Pen Pals
- Letters: Birthday Mail
- Daily Editing/ Weekly Writing Prompts
- Science
- Organization of the Human Body
- The Great River
- English Language Arts
- Storyworks-
- Imaginative Poetry
- Summarizing Non-fiction
- Storyworks-
- History and Geography
- A brief History of Numerals
- Human Odyessy
- 5 Themes of Geography
- Weekly Assessments
- Writing/Spelling/Math (will begin after review homework is completed)
- Community Building Activities
- Classroom Elections
- Groups
- Musical Messages
- Class Puzzle
- Rock Fish (working towards earning a party)
<3
SF
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August 22, 2023
Welcome to (w)eek 3!
- Special Classes: Special Classes start this week. We have special classes on Monday afternoons and on Wednesday mornings, please make sure your student wears/brings in closed toed shoes during Special days.
- Pizza Friday: Pizza Friday forms are due next Monday, August 28th. The first Pizza Friday will be next Friday, September 1st. WE NEED PIZZA HEROS!!! please sign up and be the hero we all need.
- Pizza Friday Hero (1 per week): This volunteer will pick up the pizza at lunchtime and bring an *optional* snack for the classroom community of 31 people.
- Sarahfina will send you the email receipt for the pizza order. This email will include the restaurant name (Little Ceasers), address (2950 N. 32nd St Phoenix, AZ 85018 ) and pick up time ( 11:30).
- The optional snack can include:
- organic fruit or veggies (one pre-made veggie or fruit tray works nicely)
- 100% fruit juice
- You may drop off the snack on Friday morning before school or with the pizza at lunchtime.
- Pizza Friday Hero (1 per week): This volunteer will pick up the pizza at lunchtime and bring an *optional* snack for the classroom community of 31 people.
SF
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Monday, August 14, 2023
Welcome to (w)EEK 2!
- Homework: Students got their first homework folder on Friday. The first packet is a “Rev Up” packet which has review material from their previous grade level.
- Students are expected to complete one math lesson a night and read for at least 20 minutes.
- We ask that you support your child by checking their homework each night and initial on their reading log as well. We included a calendar for when each lesson is due and a checking key for parents in their folders.
- If a student does not complete their homework or reading, they will work on it during their afternoon recess time until it is completed.
- Pizza Fridays: We will be starting pizza Fridays on Friday, September 1st.
- Forms to sign-up were in the Parent Orientation packet. Please return the completed form by Monday, August 28th. If you need support or a different payment plan, please reach out to me by email at [email protected]
- Special Classes: Special classes will be starting next week, please make sure your student brings closed toed shoes for P.E.
- Our class has P.E. on Mondays and Wednesdays.
- Phoenix Community Event!
- Come celebrate this amazing establishment and say hi!
- PALABRAS BIRTHDAY BRUNCH-Sunday, August 13, 2023 - 9:00am to 1:00pm
- Thank you to the community that has helped us reach our 8th anniversary! Now let's celebrate!
The Rez an Urban Eatery will be making blue corn crepes and more,
Aguas Phx will be making a special birthday selection of agaus frescas, and The Remedy will have sno cones, picadillies, fresh fruit and snacks.
DJ sets by Djents, Apetight, Drea and Cody Blackwater
Birthday cake served at 12:30p
Event address:
906 W Roosevelt st.
Unit 2
Phoenix, AZ 85007
- Thank you to the community that has helped us reach our 8th anniversary! Now let's celebrate!
- https://www.palabrasbookstore.com/event/palabras-birthday-brunch
- PALABRAS BIRTHDAY BRUNCH-Sunday, August 13, 2023 - 9:00am to 1:00pm
- Come celebrate this amazing establishment and say hi!
Friday, August 11, 2023
WOW! I can't believe we've only been together for a week, we've been having such a nice time back in class 218. I feel so excited for this school year and am overjoyed with our classroom community. Thank you all for your kind words, soft guidance, and open-heartedness.
- Parent Orientation:
- If you were unable to attend the Parent Orientation, we can send home the packet of information with your student upon request.
- There is also a "Parent Orientation" tab on the weebly with all resources used.
- Please RETURN Pizza Friday Forms by Aug. 28th
- Volunteer Opportunities
- Please also take some time to look at the volunteer opportunities and sign ups for the class from our Parent Coordinator, Sarah Sullivan.
- https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C044DABA62EA0FF2-volunteer
- Homework:
- If your student has not completed all of their summer homework please have them finish it over the weekend.
- Students also got their first homework packet for the year today. The first math review lesson is due Monday, August 14th. A calendar is in each of the folders to help you keep track of when each lesson is due. There is a checking key in the folder, and we ask that you check the math lesson each night and then initial.
- Students should also be reading 20 minutes a night and filling out the reading log. Please have your student fill out the log each night and we do ask that you initial as well.
- Please feel free to email me at [email protected] if you have any questions.
- Enrichment Fair:
- Today students had the Enrichment Fair that explained the different classes offered afterschool. Flyers with the information were sent home today and you will be getting an email on Monday Aug 14th to sign-up for the classes, some classes fill up quickly so make sure to keep an eye out for the email.
With Grace,
SF
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August 2, 2023
Hello friends and families, old and new! I hope your summer was safe and fun. Ren and I are looking forward to the start of the new school year. A couple of things to note before we start school on Monday.
- Peanut Allergy Aware class
- We are now a Peanut Allergy Aware class. We will have more education and support the first day of class to ensure the safety and comfort of Room 218. If you have concerns or questions that need immediate please email me at [email protected]
- Google Classroom:
- We will continue to use the Google Classroom as a tool to enrich and support our learning. If you'd like to take a peek and log in early, the class code is: roh46iz
- https://classroom.google.com/c/NjE2OTc0OTQzMzIw?cjc=roh46iz
- We will continue to use the Google Classroom as a tool to enrich and support our learning. If you'd like to take a peek and log in early, the class code is: roh46iz
- Open House
- We will be having an Open House this Friday, August 4th from 11-12 in our classroom, Room 218. Students and parents are welcome to stop by and say hello, as well as drop off any school supplies. We will have supply wagons in the carline area to help with bringing supplies in (If you need a copy of this year’s supply list you can find it under the tab above labeled SF Supply List).
- First Day of School
- The first day of school is Monday, August 7th. Students may arrive for morning recess at 7:45 am and school begins at 8:30 am. Dismissal is at 3:00 pm.
- Please note that students will no longer be able to hang out in Room 218 before 8:30, exceptions excluded. Our library is an excellent alternate for a cool, quiet, and safe place to be before class starts.
- Summer Homework:
- All summer homework is due the first week back to school. Students will also be presenting their book talks to the class the first week as well. A sign up for students to present will be available via google classroom,
- If you as a family are in need of additional support to complete summer homework, please reach out.
- Parent Orientation:
- We will be having our Parent Orientation night on Thursday, August 10th at 6:30 pm in the classroom, (The Magical) Room 218. We ask that at least one parent attends the orientation, or reach out to coordinate another meeting time.
If you have any questions, please feel free to email me at [email protected]
With Anticipation,
SF
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May 15, 2023
Hello families,
I wanted to take quick moment and celebrate our class trip. I am thoroughly impressed with our students, parents, and parent chaperones. Parents, thank you for bringing students prepared and ready for our trip. Parent chaperones, thank you so much for your innovation and positive attitudes through all our adventures. Finally, thank you students for teaching your families how to be fellow Montessorians. I truly felt like I was on a family vacation, and I’m so happy we were able to have this experience together.
By now your child’s report card as well as a guide to our end of the year portfolios should have been reviewed. Please reach out to me if you need any help. I could not be happier at the growth we have shown collectively. Thank you parents for your support and encouragement at home, and students GREAT JOB!
here are a few more dates and updates
- Class Tea Party Fri, 5/19: Our annual tradition of serving our 6th graders as guests of honor at our Tea Party will continue. Students will be completing their meal prep assignment and bring labeled food to share. Please reach out if you have any more questions.
- Class Pool Party Fri 5/19: The class end-of-year pool party will be held on Friday, May 19th from 4-8 at the Retts house, located at 3344 E. Weldon Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85018!
- There will be a lifeguard attending to help monitor the students. Make sure your student brings their bathing suit, a change of clothes, a towel, and sunscreen.
- We are asking for each family that is able to contribute $10 to help cover the cost of pizza and lifeguards - payments details to come. Please sign up here if you are also able to contribute other items to the party: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090f4faead29a6f58-sfs2#/
- Preview Day:
- Monday, May 22nd the new 3rd graders to our class will be attending preview day in the morning.
- 6th Grade Celebration Mon 5/22: Here is a note from our 6th grade leaders
- "Dear parents, This year our 6th grade celebration will be held on May 22nd at 1:00 in class 218. Parents, grandparents, siblings, and others are welcome.
- 6th grade parents, for our ceremony we need a celebration of life slideshow/video about your child to honor them as they graduate E2 and move to middle school. We are aiming to have celebrations of life be between 3 and 5 mins. Your child can help (we encourage it). If anyone has any questions, please email SF.
- 6th Grade Celebration Ceremony Schedule
- Welcome and Greetings
- Opening song: TBD
- James Baldwin quote from SF
- Honorary Mentions
- (students that will not be returning but are not in 6th grade)
- 6th grade Celebration of life
- Students will present and receive their virtues
- Closing song:
- BSB, I Want It That Way
- Welcome and Greetings
- 6th Grade Celebration Ceremony Schedule
- 6th grade parents, for our ceremony we need a celebration of life slideshow/video about your child to honor them as they graduate E2 and move to middle school. We are aiming to have celebrations of life be between 3 and 5 mins. Your child can help (we encourage it). If anyone has any questions, please email SF.
- "Dear parents, This year our 6th grade celebration will be held on May 22nd at 1:00 in class 218. Parents, grandparents, siblings, and others are welcome.
- Homework: Students have now finished their homework folder for the current school year this week.
- 4th and 5th graders will be getting their summer homework, Monday May 22nd.
- 6th graders will be getting their summer homework from the middle school.
SF
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April 24, 2023
Hello families, here are some upcoming dates and information for you.
- Villa Auction: The event is this Saturday, April 29th starting at 5 pm at Papago Golf Club! Your ticket includes dinner, two cocktail tickets, and live entertainment. Peruse the online auction items, grab a drink with friends, and enjoy a beautiful evening at the foot of the Papago Mountains with your Villa family and friends. There will be a raffle, a live auction, and so much more!
- If you can’t make it to the auction, you can still bid on items through the online auction here Villa Montessori's 2023 Week of Giving - GalaBid
- Lost and Found Viewing Week: Starting today, we will have a lost and found “viewing week”. Lost and found items will be on display near carline and several parking spaces will be reserved for parents to park and peruse those items. We will do the same thing at the end of May. Any items not claimed by the end of the week will be donated to a charity foundation.
- End of the Year Conferences: We will be having optional end of the year conferences on Friday, May 12th. Everyone will be emailed their student’s progress report in May. If you would like to have an optional end of the year conference please click the following link
- https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090F4FAEAD29A6F58-optional7
- If none of the available times work for you, please email me at [email protected] with other times we can meet.
- Both Friday, May 5th and Friday, May 12th will be Half-Days school will be out at 11:30 am.
- https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090F4FAEAD29A6F58-optional7
Enjoy,
SF
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April 17, 2023
Overnight Trip:
- Our class overnight trip will be happening Monday, May 9th – Tuesday, May 10th. . If you have any questions about the trip please email me at [email protected]
Auction Dinner:
- The Villa Auction Dinner will be Saturday, April 29th. We are continuing to build our one of a kind art project. We hope you enjoy it!
Class Pool Party
- We will be having our class pool party on Friday, May 19th from 4-8. Thank you so much to the Rett's for hosting!
- We will order pizza but are asking for other items for the party, if you would like to contribute an item, please click the following link
- https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090f4faead29a6f58-sfs2#/
- We will be having our 6th Grade Celebration on May 22nd, in our home away from home, Class 218. 6th grade parents are cordially invited to attend our celebration. Our 6th grade leaders will be writing and sending out an information letter soon. Stay tuned!
SF
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Rock Fish Party!!!!
Rock Fish Party Friday 4/14/23 ( Game day and Cozy (com)Forts)
- Students have earned and decided that our rock fish party will be held tomorrow, April 14th. I encourage you to talk to your student about how they earned a party (short answer is a LOT of hard work).
- Am- Game day (video, board, or card games): Students may bring games to play at school that fall within the following parameters
- Must have parent permission to bring materials to school
- Card games may be played but no trading is allowed (what you go to school with is what you leave with)
- additionally, we recommend that no cards over the value of $50 be brought to school in general
- Video
- games must be rated E
- must be school appropriate (language, characters, and content must be considered)
- no chatting or online interaction
- Pm- Cozy (com)Forts
- bring parent approved materials to create a "Cozy and Comfortable" fort
- you may also wear comfy clothes to take a "cat nap" with in your fort.
If there are any parent concerns about this rock fish party please email me. We will find alternative activities as needed. <3
Happy Weekend!
SF
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April 10, 2023
Welcome to week 32 of school. Our week will be very different due to testing this week. You may notice your students feeling more tired/have more energy at the end of the day due to these changes in routines. Keep your heads up and we will get through this all together!!
State Testing: Our class will be doing state testing this week.
- Please make sure your student gets plenty of rest the night before testing, arrives on time to school and has a nice healthy breakfast.
- A big THANK YOU to the following families who brought in snacks to keep us healthy before testing: V. Jefferson, K. McCowan, L. Mendoza, and S. Sullivan <3 <3 <3 <3
- Students may bring in sugar-free gum and hard candy on testing days to have during the testing sessions. Please have the student put their sugar-free gum and hard candy in a plastic bag with their name on it.
- Here is our class testing schedule:
- Monday, April 10th: 4th, 5th and 6th graders, AASA Writing test
- Tuesday, April 11th: 4th, 5th and 6th graders, AASA Reading and Math Part 1
- Wednesday, April 12th: 4th, 5th and 6th graders, AASA Reading Math Part 2
- Here is our class testing schedule:
Game Day: Students earned a half-day Game Day from the Fun Run, which we will be doing this Friday morning, April 14th.
- Students may bring in board games, card games, and any other type of game to play on Friday morning.
Villa Auction: The Villa Auction will be happening Saturday, April 29th.
- Our class art piece (Fabric Arts) are in the process of being created. Stay tuned!
“I’ve never been interested in being invisible and erased.”
— Laverne Cox
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April 7, 2023
Welcome to the end of 31 of school!
Homework:
- As we are completing our AASA testing next week, 218 will no longer be requiring Math Hw daily.
- We WILL be asking for Reading Logs and Monthly Meal Projects.
- Due to testing students are excused from all homework components Friday April 7th, Monday April 10- Wednesday April 12th.
- We will be checking reading logs and accepting monthly Meal Projects starting on Thrusday April 13th.
This Friday, April 7th is a Half-Day all of school is out at 11:30 am for Staff Professional Development.
State Testing:
- Our class will be doing state testing next week on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday.
- Please make sure your student gets plenty of rest the night before testing, arrives on time and has a nice healthy breakfast.
- We will be providing a nice healthy snack in the morning, thank you to the families you volunteered to bring it in.
- Students may bring in sugar-free gum and hard candy on testing days to have during the testing sessions.
- Please have the student put their sugar-free gum and hard candy in a plastic bad with their name on it.
- Students will be asked to throw away gum and put away hard candy after testing sessions.
Here is our class testing schedule:
Monday, April 10th: 4th, 5th and 6th graders, AASA Writing test
Tuesday, April 11th: 4th, 5th and 6th graders, AASA Reading and Math Part 1
Wednesday, April 12th: 4th, 5th and 6th graders, AASA Reading Math Part 2
Happy April!
SF
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March 27, 2023
AZSCI Testing:
- This Thursday, March 30th only 5th graders will be taking the AZSCI Science test. If you have a 5th grader, please make sure they get a good nights rest and a good breakfast. We will provide them with a snack in the morning. 5th graders may also bring sugar-free gum and hard candy to have during the testing sessions.
- Our other testing days are
- Monday, April 10th: 4th, 5th and 6th graders, AASA Writing test
- Tuesday, April 11th: 4th, 5th and 6th graders, AASA Reading and Math Part 1
- Wednesday, April 12th: 4th, 5th and 6th graders, AASA Reading Math Part 2
- Snack Sign Up
- https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090f4faead29a6f58-sfs1#/
- Our other testing days are
- TIPS FOR SUCCESSFUL TESTING:
- Students may also bring in their own sugar free gum or handy candy on testing days. Thank you to the families that have donated snacks to the class. We appreciate you!
- The most important thing that you can do for your child during testing is making sure that they come to school on the days they have tests. Making up a missed test means time out of class and losing important learning time that cannot be made up. In addition to attendance, your child will do their best on the tests if they:
- Get to bed early the night before to be well-rested on the day of the test
- Have a good breakfast on the morning of the test
- Come to school on time
- Be adequately hydrated
- Stay positive!
- Today we are sending home a few papers needed for the overnight trip. Please reach out to me if you need another copy sent home to you. You child should come home with the following
- Student Trip Participation Form
- Meal forms
- Grand Canyon Adventure Itinerary
- "What to pack for you N. Az Trip" packing list
- Additionally, Parent chaperones will be receiving the following papers
- Adult Participation Form
Whole Class Lessons Given in March(weeks 28-30 and Spring Break)
Writing: Weekly Writing Prompts
- Art Fair Long Term Paper
- Story works
- The Message: Science Fiction
- Periodic Table of Elements (Research)
- Atom Board
- The Dawn of Art (Paleolithic/Mesolithic/Neolithic)
- Epochs of History
- 4th-Maroo and the Winter Caves
- 5th-Chains
- 6th- Golden Goblet
- ELA/Writing
- Math (grade level)
March 20, 2023
I hope everyone has an enjoyable Spring Break!
State Testing: We will be starting to do some test practice this week for the upcoming state tests. If you would like to provide a morning snack for the class during a testing day, please sign-up by clicking the following link: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090f4faead29a6f58-sfs1#/
Here is our class testing schedule:
- Thursday, March 30th: 5th graders only, AZSCI-Science Test
- Monday, April 10th: 4th, 5th and 6th graders, AASA Writing test
- Tuesday, April 11th: 4th, 5th and 6th graders, AASA Reading and Math Part 1
- Wednesday, April 12th: 4th, 5th and 6th graders, AASA Reading Math Part 2
PTO Movie Night: The Villa PTO invites all families to the annual Movie Night, held on the Elementary field. The event will take place Saturday, March 25th, and is FREE for everyone to attend! The movie will begin shortly after sunset at approximately 6:30 p.m. Come watch MINIONS - The Rise of Gru with all your friends!
Middle School Farmers Market: This Sunday, March 26th the Middle School will be doing their Spring Farmers Market from 3-5 pm at the Middle School campus.
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March 6, 2023
Art History Fair:
- The Art History Fair is Friday, March 10th. We will be having the fair in the Davis building outdoor area next to the library. Parents and families are welcome to come and view the fair from 10 am – 11 am.
Spring Break is next week, Monday, March 13th – Friday, March 17th.
- One math lesson, lesson 91, and 20 minutes of reading are due when we come back from break on Monday, March 20th.
State Testing:
- Here are our class testing days, please put them on the calendar and make sure your student will be here the days of testing.
- Thursday, March 30th: 5th graders only, AZSCI-Science Test
- Monday, April 10th: 4th, 5th and 6th graders, AASA Writing test
- Tuesday, April 11th: 4th, 5th and 6th graders, AASA Reading and Math Part 1
- Wednesday, April 12th: 4th, 5th and 6th graders, AASA Reading Math Part 2
- Each day of testing we are asking for a healthy morning snack for the students, if you would like to bring in a snack please sign-up by clicking the following link,
- https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090f4faead29a6f58-sfs1#/
February 27, 2023
Homework:
- Students got their next homework packet on Friday, lesson 81 was due today. Students will continue to do one math lesson a night and at least 20 minutes of reading. There was a mix-up with the 6th grade packets they will be getting the correct lessons today.
Black History Month Community Celebration:
- We’ve organized a community event on Friday, March 3, 4:30-6:30 pm on the Middle School Campus lawn (2927 E. Campbell Ave) celebrating Black Excellence, featuring some of our Villa parents and teachers who will share their journeys as athletes, educators, and leaders.
- Experience the Villa Student Art Gallery of Quilts, inspired by Gee's Bend and Faith Ringgold Quilts, and make some art of your own! Our evening will feature performances from Impact Gymnastics, young musicians from the Phoenix Conservatory of Music, and student poetry readings honoring Black poets from the past. It will be a fun-filled evening of connection, inspiration, and celebration!
Art History Fair:
- The Art History Fair is next week! Parents and family are welcome to come to the fair on Friday, March 10th from 10 am-11am. We will be set-up in the Davis ODE area by the library.
- Students should be turning in their final drafts, tri-fold boards, art projects and presentations on Monday, March 6th.
Whole Class Lessons Given in February (weeks 24-27 )
Writing: Weekly Writing Prompts
- Biography: A Gifted Girl
- Book Review: C. J. Clark Has Another Hi
- News Article: Atlantic Oil Spill Threatens Spanish Coast
- Science Article: Earth on the Move
- Story works
- Wrong Way Roy!
- Black History Timeline Project
- Artist Fair- Rough Draft and Editing
- Space Exploration Timeline and History Scavenger Hunt
- Mendeleev’s Periodic Table
- Periodic Table of Elements (Exploration)
- Black History
- Math Music and Black History: Jazz, Funk Blues, and Soul
- The Secret Language of Freedom Quilts
- This Birth of Jazz
- The Dawn of Art (Paleolithic/Mesolithic/Neolithic)
- Europe: Political Map
- 4th-Maroo and the Winter Caves
- 5th-Chains
- 6th- Golden Goblet
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February 6, 2023
Happy Black History Month! This month we will be collaborating with our DEI parent council to continue to celebrate OUR history. We aim to continue our classroom traditions (Black History Timeline, Bite Sized Black History, Musical Messages highlighting POC, and more) in efforts to celebrate Black Excellence. We are so excited to enrich our understanding of history and continue to be representatives of a global society of truth, beauty, and love.
Thank you
- Thank you to all parent chaperones and drives last week, the students had a great time at the Arizona Science Center! If any chaperones took pictures/videos please send them my way, you can either email them to [email protected]
Hard Lockdown Drill:
- We will be having a hard lockdown drill this Tuesday, February 7th. If you come to school during a lockdown please leave the campus and wait for further instructions from the school.
Valentine Grams:
- Valentine Grams go on sale this week!
- The Valentine Grams will be passed out Tuesday, February 14th in the afternoon.
Students may also bring in their own valentines to pass out to the class on Tuesday, February 14th, students should also bring a bag to collect their valentines in.- Kisses $3
- Smencil $3
- Kisses + Smencil $5
- Tiny Plush $5
- Tiny Plush + Kisses $6
- Tiny Plush + Kisses + Smencil $8
- The next due date is this Friday, February 10th. Students should be turning in their rough draft of the Biography on their artist. After finishing their rough draft students should start working on their art project, tri-fold board, and presentation
Half-Day:
- This Friday, January 10th is a Half-Day, all school is out at 11:30 am for Staff Professional Development.
Whole Class Lessons Given in Jan (weeks 19-23 )
Writing: Weekly Writing Prompts
- Personal Narrative: The View from Down Here
- Book Review: An American Classic
- Fantasy: Bored in Space
- Editorial: Schools Should Lead by Example
- Character Sketch: Blackbeard the Pirate
- Story works
- The History of Video Games
- The Secret Power of Doodling
- Astronomy End of Semester Project
- Early Human End of Semester Project
- Early Human Timeline
- Europe: Political Map
- 4th-Maroo and the Winter Caves
- 5th-Chains
- 6th- Golden Goblet
- Lunar New Year (Student Project)
- MLK Day Thanks Dr. King!
- Class Elections
- New Groups (Winter to Spring)
- Portfolios (preparation and updated for conferences)
January 30, 2023
Field Trip:
- We will be having our field trip to the Arizona Science Center tomorrow, Tuesday, January 31st. We will be leaving the school at 9 am and returning by 2:30 pm. Students need to bring a sack lunch to have at the center, they may also bring money if they would like to purchase anything from the gift shop. Thank you to all parent chaperones and drivers!
- The PTO Fun Run was a great success, we raised over $39,827! Ms. Stefanie's class was highest earning E2 class earning $151 per lap! Way to go! The students have earned the following: an otter pop party, Mismatch Day, Crazy Sock Day, Fun Friday, half-day of game time, and donuts for the class! Our rewards will occur within the follow weeks, but dates have not been finalized yet.
- We will be sending home information about our upcoming overnight trip in the following weeks. Please be on the lookout for emails coming soon. Chaperones have been selected for our trip. Ms. Barbi has emailed families that have been selected as well as alternatives.
“Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.” -James Baldwin (No Name in the Street).
Happy Black History Month!
SF
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January 26, 2023
Hello families. This week I had a small back injury and was out of the classroom for the start of the week. Thank you so much for you kind words and flexibility around this.
Rock Fish Party Friday 1/27/23 (Recess and a cozy movie marathon)
- Students have earned a rock fish party and will celebrated all day Friday 1/27. I encourage you to talk to your student about how they earned a party (short answer is a LOT of hard work).
- Recess- Students will have a 1/2 day of recess and access to the classroom for cool down/calm down areas.
- Students may bring Recess equipment
- Cozy Movie Marathon (teacher selected movie rated G and deemed appropriate for school)
- Students may bring (1) blanket and (1) pillow/stuffed animal
- Students are also encouraged to wear comfy cozy clothes!
- If there are any parent concerns about this rock fish party please email me. We will find alternative activities as needed.
- Students got their new math homework packets on Friday; Lesson 65 is due tomorrow. Students should continue to do one math lesson a night and continue to read for at least 20 minutes.
PTO Fun Run:
- We didn’t just meet our goal to raise $3,000 in profit this weekend, we blew it completely out of the water, raising over $5,000 in profit! Primary students have earned a PJ Day and Elementary students have earned a Fun Friday!
- Today’s challenge is for students to log on and create a student star video on mybooster.com to share with family and friends. All students who have previously sent or who send a star video today will be entered in a drawing for a National Parks Pass!
- Every student will be getting a Fun Run t-shirt this Friday!
- The Fun Run will be happening this Saturday, January 28th at Hopi Elementary School, 5110 E Lafayette Blvd. Phoenix, AZ 85018.
- Primary Students run at 9:00 am, Elementary 1 students run at 9:40 am, E2 and Middle School students run at 10:20 am.
Art History Fair:
- Students have been working on their outlines and bibliography pages for their paper on their artist. They should now be working on writing their rough draft for their biography on their artist. The rough draft is due Friday, February 10th.
Valentine Grams:
- We are still in need of bags of Hershey kisses (no nuts please) to help contribute to the E2 fundraiser.
- We also need volunteers to help, if you would like to help please click the following links to sign-up.
- This link is to bag candy at home: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090F4FAEAD29A6F58-valentine4
- This link is to help assemble and deliver Grams: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090F4FAEAD29A6F58-valentine3
- We are looking for (2) Volunteers to come to campus early and help us sale Valentine Grams on our day Feb. 13th,
Thank you for your support!
SF
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January 17, 2023
I hope everyone had a nice three-day weekend. I rested and recuperated from the first half of our conferences. They have been going great. We have been sharing SO MUCH work from semester 1.
- Conferences:
- We will continue with conferences this week. This Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, January 20th is a Half-Day, school will be out at 11:30 am. Progress Reports were emailed to parents last week.
- Field Trip:
- We will be having our next field trip to the Arizona Science Center on Tuesday, January 31st. Permission slips will be sent home today. We do need parent chaperones and drivers, please turn in your child permission slip by Friday, January 27th.
- PTO Fun Run:
- We will be starting to kick off the PTO Fun Run with a Pep Rally this Thursday! Students will learn about the fundraiser and will learn about the rewards they can earn with each donation they get. The school goal is to raise $30,000 for teacher resources. With the funds raised last year, our class was able to get new outdoor umbrellas and furniture for our outdoor workspace, as well as various materials for the classroom. The first step is to register your student on MyBooster - Join your fundraiser today!
- The Fun Run will be Saturday, January 28th at Hopi Elementary School, E2 students will run at 10:20 am.
- We will be starting to kick off the PTO Fun Run with a Pep Rally this Thursday! Students will learn about the fundraiser and will learn about the rewards they can earn with each donation they get. The school goal is to raise $30,000 for teacher resources. With the funds raised last year, our class was able to get new outdoor umbrellas and furniture for our outdoor workspace, as well as various materials for the classroom. The first step is to register your student on MyBooster - Join your fundraiser today!
- Homework: Students should be finishing their math homework packet this week, they will be getting a new packet this Friday.
SF
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January 9, 2023
Conferences:
- Conferences start this Friday, January 13th and will continue next week. This Friday and next Friday will both be half-days for conferences and school will be out at 11:30 am.
- The conferences are student led and include the parent and teacher. Please sign-up for a time to meet by clicking the sign-up below. Progress reports will be emailed at least 24 hours prior to the conference.
- https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090f4faead29a6f58-january#/
Valentine Grams:
- The E2 Fundraiser for Valentine Grams will be starting soon. We ask that each family bring in a bag of Hershey kisses (no nuts please) to help contribute to the fundraiser.
- We also need volunteers to help, if you would like to help please click the following links to sign-up.
- This link is to bag candy at home: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090F4FAEAD29A6F58-valentine4
- This link is to help assemble and deliver Grams: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090F4FAEAD29A6F58-valentine3
Thank you for your support!
Next Monday, January 16th there is No School in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day
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January 3, 2023
Thank you so much for the gifts and words of appreciation. It was a fantastic way to start the holiday with a sense of community and acknowledgements of all of our hard work. I hope everyone and a nice break and a Happy New Year!
- Conferences:
- Conferences are coming up, they will be on Friday, January 13th and Friday, January 20th. These are student led conferences that include the parent and teacher. Students will be sharing their portfolio of work from the first semester and the progress they have made so far this year. Progress reports will be emailed to the parents. Please click the following link to sign-up for a time to meet.
- https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090f4faead29a6f58-january#/
- Conferences are coming up, they will be on Friday, January 13th and Friday, January 20th. These are student led conferences that include the parent and teacher. Students will be sharing their portfolio of work from the first semester and the progress they have made so far this year. Progress reports will be emailed to the parents. Please click the following link to sign-up for a time to meet.
- Pizza Friday:
- The second semester Pizza Friday payment of $90 is due by this Friday, January 6th. If we still need a second payment from you, your student will have a reminder sheet in their communication/homework folder.
- There are also some open spots to sign-up for pizza Friday snack this semester, please click the following link to sign-up
- Homework:
- Math lessons 51 & 52 were due over break, and students completed students should be completing lesson 54 tonight to be turned in tomorrow.
- Students should continue to read 20 minutes a night as well.
- 4th graders that have not yet mastered all four operations will also have their math facts log to complete
- Novel Study:
- We will begin our semester long novel study starting on Thursdays. Please feel free to reach out to me if you are in need of buying a personal copy of your child's novel.
- Truffle Care
- A note from our Parent Coordinator "On Truffle, there is a sign up to care for Truffle over spring break. We will be out of town and unable to help, so I'm really hoping someone can host our friendly, adorable class pet. We will also be traveling much of the summer, so if you're willing to help then, please let me know-it's much appreciated!
- Care for Truffle
- A note from our Parent Coordinator "On Truffle, there is a sign up to care for Truffle over spring break. We will be out of town and unable to help, so I'm really hoping someone can host our friendly, adorable class pet. We will also be traveling much of the summer, so if you're willing to help then, please let me know-it's much appreciated!
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December 12, 2022
Hello families, here are a few more notices before we leave for winter break.
Cookie Making and Decorating: We will decorating the cookies this Friday, December 16th. Each student will get around five cookies each to decorate and take home. We still need a couple items for this activity, click the following link to sign-up to bring in an item Please bring in the items by Thursday, December 14th.
- https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090f4faead29a6f58-cookie4
Class Gift Exchange: The class voted to do a fun white elephant gift exchange this Friday, December 16th. Students should bring in a silly or fun item, it can be something from your home but please do not spend more than $20 on the gift.
Winter Break will be from Monday, December 19th – Monday, January 2nd. School Resumes on Tuesday, January 3rd.
Homework: Students should be completing two math lessons and reading logs over the break. Lesson 51 and 52 are due when we return from break.
Art History Fair: Students should also be working on their Art History Fair project. They should be completing their research notecards and have a total between 50-100 cards by January. They can also start to work on their art project.
I hope everyone has a nice and relaxing Winter Break and a Happy New Year!
SF
P.S.- If you would like to take care of Truffle over winter break, reach out to SF or sign up! https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f0f44aca82eaafe3-truffle1
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December 5, 2022
Hello families, we are fastly approaching winter break and we are so excited! We have many activities happening so please be on the lookout for updates from the children. This Friday, December 9th is a Half-Day for all of the students, school will be out at 11:30 am.
Rock Fish Party (Pt 1 and Pt 2)
- Students have earned and decided that our rock fish party will be split over the half day on Friday the 9th and the half of the work day on Monday. Students will be sending out guidance letters to parents to explain more about the expectations and procedures for each portion of their Rock Fish party. I encourage you to talk to your student about how they earned a party (short answer is a LOT of hard work).
- Pt 1- Game day (video, board, or card games): Students may bring games to play at school that fall within the following parameters
- Must have parent permission to bring materials to school
- Card games may be played but no trading is allowed (what you go to school with is what you leave with)
- additionally, we recommend that no cards over the value of $50 be brough to school in general
- Video
- games must be rated E
- must be school appropriate (language, characters, and content must be considered)
- no chatting or online interaction
- Pt 2- Forts and Cat naps
- bring parent approved materials to build forts with.
- you may also wear comfy clothes to take a "cat nap" with in your fort.
Service Projects: Updates and important dates
- St. Mary’s Food Bank Drive: "Our class and Stefanie's class are putting together a food drive to help out St. Mary’s food bank. They are asking for canned goods, peanut butter and canned vegetables are their most asked for item at the moment. We will be collecting starting today Monday, December 5th – Wednesday, December 14th. Collection boxes will be in carline and the front office."
- Feed My starving Children: "For our group, going outs will be next week. We are still in need of support in finalizing our going out. Their presentation next week". Please continue to check in and gently support your student.
- Homeless Care Packages: " Our going out will be on 12/13 and will present our project on 12/13 as well. We are mostly prepared for this project but may need a small amount of support next week."
- Maggie's house Care Packages: " Our going out will be 12/7/22 and our presentation to 6th graders will be this week as well".
- Ignite Hope (Phoenix Children's Hospital): This project is well on its way. The event is in 4 more days and would love to see more of our Villa Community at this event. Click the link for more information!
- https://secure.phoenixchildrensfoundation.org/site/TR/IgniteHope/General?pg=entry&fr_id=1720
- Pen Pals: "We are still in the brainstorm phase and would like a lot of support from families at home. We will be finishing up our project next week and will present then as well."
- Free Rice.com Marathon: "We are ready to start the marathon! The marathon will occur on Wednesday the 14th, in the afternoon. We will create a small video of our activities that day and record the amount raised. Make sure to cheer us on and wish us luck!".
Cookie Making and Decorating Dec 16th (9:30-11:00)
- Next week we will be decorating cookies. Each student will take home around 5 cookies. We do need some supplies for this fun activity, if you would like to bring in an item please click the sign-up below
- https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090F4FAEAD29A6F58-cookie4
Class Gift Exchange on Fri Dec 16th:
- During our last class Community Meeting students voted to do a class gift exchange during our cookie decorating event. We will do a white elephant gift exchange games, students have the option to participate or not. Gifts should be something fun and silly, anything laying around the house or less than $20.
- Our lead 6th grader has created a letter, please review!
Chaperones for Overnight:
- You will be receiving an email from Villa today that contains an electronic form to sign-up to be a chaperone on our overnight trip to Astro Camp in Idyllwild, California May 15th –May 17th. We will choose the chaperones by lottery on January 20th. You will need to have a fingerprint clearance card by the date of the lottery to be put in to be in to be a chaperone for the trip.
We can make it through together!
SF
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November 28, 2022
Hello families, I hope you had a restful break. I'm excited to be back in the room, and our marathon to the end of the calendar year has begun!
- Art History Fair: The artist questionnaire, notecard check, and rough sketch are due this Friday, December 2nd.
- The questionnaire is in the packet. For the rough sketch students need to list the materials they will need for the project and a sketch/description of what they will be making. Students will also need to show that they started their research notecards, they should have between 50-100 research notecards by the end of their research.
- Homework: Students should be completing the review lessons this week and will be getting their new homework packet at the end of the week.
- Middle School Farmer's Market: Kathreen and the Entrepreneur Parent Committee are busy planning for the middle school’s first-ever farmer’s market this Saturday, Dec. 3 from 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. on the middle school campus. All Villa families are invited to come check it out and support the students. Middle School Garden - 2927 E. Campbell Ave.
- Hard Lockdown Drill: We will be doing a practice Hard Lockdown Drill next Monday, December 5th. If you come to campus when a drill or lockdown is happening please leave and wait for notification from the school.
- Service Projects- This week students have selected a service project they would like to complete. Below are the parent letters they have created.
- Care Packages
- Dear parents:
- We as a group have decided to create care packages for the homeless as our service project. Our goal is to make a decent amount of care packages for the homeless. We want to help people in need especially because of the time of the year. We feel it is important that everyone in our community feels valued and appreciated during the holiday time, even if they are experiencing hardships. Your kids will be a big part of this. Parents can help help us in the following ways; by donating money to help us get the supplies, Volunteer as a driver for a going out to buy supplies, Helping students coordinate a going out and Help students complete their project proposal. We thank you for your support and collaboration! Sincerely, Avan, Aiden, Camillo, Wyatt, Everett, Maya, Remy
- Dear parents:
- Feed My Starving Children
- Dear Parents,
- Class 218 has decided to create differen service projects to give back to our community. Our group has chosen to volunteer at “ Feed My Starving Children”. “Ffeed my starving children” helps and provides food for hungry children throughout the world. We want to give back to the community and help out the hungry by feeding them and providing food and water to them. Our goal is to volunteer in person and create as many food packages as possible. This is a big project that we would love support and help with. Here are a few ways parent can help us achieve our goal; Talk about this with your student, Help you student complete their project proposal, Volunteer as a driver, and Help students coordinate a going out to “Feed My Starving Children”. Sincerely, Students of class 218 / Sarahfina class Xavier,lavender,Soleil,penny,coraline,keane, and gabe.
- Dear Parents,
- Pen Pals
- Dear Parents,
- We are doing a service project for our class. We will be writing a thoughtful letter to the elderly in Nursing homes. We will be using this resource, and hope that you will collaborate together with your child (https://www.projectpenpal.org/) This is supposed to lift their spirits during the holidays. We want to give them joy. We want you to help us, this is how: Volunteer for going outs, Support your children on this topic, and encourage them, Help them with edits and brainstorm. We thank you for helping your dearest children. Sincerely- Makena, Alma, Owen, and Alivia.
- Dear Parents,
- Care Packages
Whole Class Lessons Given in November (weeks 13-16 )
Writing: Weekly Writing Prompts
- Science Article: Electric Energy
- Science Article: Terrific Teeth
- Personal Narrative: The Gold Rush
- Story works
- Ruby Bridges
- Class Play: Ruby Bridges
- Timeline Of Humans
- Trash Heap
- Migration
- Biomes
- Ecosystems
- Service Project (Brainstorms and Project Proposals)
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November 18th, 2022
Hello families,
- Here is a reminder of our 218 Winter Social
- November Potluck: Our class will be having a potluck lunch on November 20, noon to 2pm at Granada Park to celebrate each other and the holiday season.
- Granada Park, 6505 N 20th St, Phoenix, AZ 85016
- November Potluck: Our class will be having a potluck lunch on November 20, noon to 2pm at Granada Park to celebrate each other and the holiday season.
- We cordially invite you our 218 class production of Ruby Bridges on Monday, November 21st, at 10:00
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November 14, 2022
Wow what an event! I wish I could have joined for the Ruby Bridges walk, but I am hoping that this celebration of Ruby Bridge's courage will become an annual activity for Villa. Thank you to all the parents who were able to participate and a shout out to Sarah Sullivan for leading us.
- Art History Fair: Now that students have picked their artist they should be researching and taking notes using notecards. They are also starting to plan Going Outs to various art museums this month and next. The next due date is the Artist Questionnaire/Notecard Check and Rough Sketch of the art piece, which is due Friday, December 2nd. \
- Overnight Trip: This year our class will be going to the Grand Canyon, AZ for our overnight trip. We are offering several payment options and need to know each family's decision for attendance and payment. We do offer scholarship assistance for families who need support. Please fill out the online payment form by this Wednesday, November 9th
- School Picture Make-Ups: If your child was absent on picture day make-ups will be this Wednesday, November 16th.Parents should have received an email from Studio W Portraits last week with your student’s photos and options for purchase.
- PTO Gratitude Breakfast: The PTO is hosting a gratitude breakfast this Thursday, November 17th from 7:30-8:30 am. Meet on the E2 slab next to the swings, bring your own breakfast, cups of cocoa will be provided.
- PTO Book Exchange: The Villa PTO invites all families to attend their Book Exchange event this Saturday, November 19, 2022, from 2 PM - 5 PM on the Elementary Campus.
- BOOK Drop Off will be available starting Wednesday, November 16, and ending Friday, November 18. Collection boxes will be placed at each campus. CHAPTER BOOKS NEEDED We welcome volunteers for sorting in advance or on the day of the event!
- Barter Day: Next Tuesday, November 22nd E2 will be doing a Barter Day in the afternoon. Students may bring in a pillowcase full of items that they would like to barter/trade. We ask that all items be school appropriate, any games or movies should be rated G or PG, and all items should be approved to be bartered.
- Barter Day Rules
- No Money
- No food/candy
- No stealing
- Shake on trades (with a witness)
- No trade backs (unless both traders agree)
- Things to bring
- Stuff to trade (parent approved) *we recommend bringing a pillow case to hold everything.
- A towel to put stuff you are trading on.
- Procedures
- We will be doing barter day out on the slab. You will set up your trading stuff on half of a table, or on a towel on the ground. Students will walk around trading, if you agree on a trade with someone, shake hands with them, with a witness! If you do not shake on the trade or have a witness, the trade does not count.
- Barter Day Rules
November 7, 2022
Families, I will be out this week resting and healing from home. I will not have access to my email until next Monday, so please direct any urgent questions to our level director: Christy Cantu
- Art History Fair: Now that students have picked their artist they should be researching and taking notes using notecards. They are also starting to plan Going Outs to various art museums this month and next. The next due date is the Artist Questionnaire/Notecard Check and Rough Sketch of the art piece, which is due Friday, December 2nd.
- Overnight Trip: This year our class will be going to the Grand Canyon, AZ for our overnight trip. We are offering several payment options and need to know each family's decision for attendance and payment. We do offer scholarship assistance for families who need support. Please fill out the online payment form by this Wednesday, November 9th
- No School this Friday, November 11th in observance of Veterans Day. There will be two math lessons (15&16) and two reading logs are due Monday, November 14th.
Ruby Bridges Walk to School: We invite you to put on your favorite purple shirt and join us on Monday, November 14th as we walk to school together in celebration of Ruby Bridges and her courageous walk to school on November 14, 1960. Ruby Bridges' story is one of kindness and friendship. Read more about her story here.
- At 7 AM on November 14th, Villa families will park their cars at Los Olivos Park and gather near Devonshire Senior Center, located at 2802 E. Devonshire Ave. Phoenix 85016.
- At 7:15 AM, there will be a brief presentation by our students, and at 7:30 AM, we will walk to Villa together. Middle School families will turn at Campbell, and Primary and Elementary families will continue to Meadowbrook. Once students have arrived at school, parents may walk back to Los Olivos Park to retrieve their cars.
- All Villa families and campuses are invited! Don’t forget to wear a purple shirt!
You may reach out to Villa parent Sarah Ontiveros Sullivan with any questions regarding this event at - [email protected].
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October 31, 2022
The Fall festival was a success! Thank you so much for your support, contributions, and joy for this student lead event.
For 6th Grade Parents Only: The Middle School will be having a Parent Information Meeting for Future 2023-2024 Students at the Middle School Campus 2927 E. Campbell Ave. this Wednesday, November 2nd, 2022 6:30-8:00 P.M.
- We will explain how our middle school program matches your student’s current developmental needs and how we support and empower each student on his or her quest for identity, autonomy, and interdependence. We have planned this presentation to educate current 6th grade parents on our program for the coming school year.
Lockdown Drill: We will be doing a practice soft lockdown drill this Thursday, November 3rd. If you ever come to campus during a lockdown please do not come on campus for your safety and the safety of the children.
Whole Class Lessons Given in September (weeks 10-12 and fall break)
Writing: Weekly Writing Prompts
- Science Article-Arrowheads in Space
- Social Studies Article: A Monumental Tribute
- Personal Narrative: My Tree House
- Story works
- Mountain of Doom
- Spooky Stories
- The Moon and her Phases
- The Moon and the Tides
- Human's Closest Relatives pt 1
- Human's Closest Relative pt 2
- The Moon and the Tides
- Ecology (riparian lands)
- Class Elections
- New Jobs
- New Permanent Groups
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October 24, 2022
Art History Fair: Students should be choosing the artist they will be researching this week if they haven’t already done so. The signed letter and artist choice is due this Friday. October 28th.Once your student chooses an artist they should start researching. Students will also be planning Going Outs to various art museums in the valley next month to help them research.
School Pictures: School Pictures will be happening this Thursday, October 27th. If you haven’t registered your student yet please do so now.
- To register visit this link: Register for School Photos, click "Register for school photos," and enter Villa2022. Then click on the button that says "open album." You will be directed to a registration form that will allow you to register your child for school photos. Enter your name (parent name) and the child's name, and then select the appropriate class for the child. Add additional children if needed by clicking the "register another child" button.
Field Day: This Friday, October 28th the E2 classes will be having a Fall Field Day with various games and activities. We are asking for donations to help with this fun event. If you would like to bring in some supplies, click the following link and Thank You! https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090F4FAEAD29A6F58-fall1
This Friday, October 28th is an All School Half-Day, all of the school will be out at 11:30 am for staff professional development.
Trunk or Treat: Villa’s free Trunk or Treat event will be happening this Saturday, October 29th on the Elementary field.
We still need LOTS of candy donations! Click the following Sign Up Genius Link to sign-up: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090f4faead29a6f58-trunk
Each campus will have a designated walk-through time as follows:
4:00 - 4:45 PM - ECC (Infants, Toddlers, Primary),
5:00 - 5:45 PM - Elementary 1
6:00 - 6:45 PM - Elementary 2 and Middle School.
For families attending the event, please park at ECC or Elementary Campus parking lots and enter through the Elementary Carline gates (look for signs/balloons). There is limited parking available for this event - each campus will have a designated walk-through time as follows: 4-4:45 PM ECC (Infants, Toddlers, Primary), 5-5:45 PM Elementary 1, and 6-6:45 PM Elementary 2 and Middle School. If your family has students in different program levels, please choose one walk-through time to attend. Each person will get a ticket when they enter to VOTE for their favorite trunk!
SF
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October 17, 2022
Welcome back to class 218. We hope your break was restful and fulfilling!
Vision and Hearing Screenings: We will be doing vision and hearing screenings this Wednesday, October 19th for all 6th graders, new students and those in special education. If your student wears glasses, please make sure they wear them on Wednesday.
Art History Fair: Students were given their Art History Fair packets. The Art History Fair will be taking place the week of March 6th-10th between 10-11am, exact date TBD. Students are to choose an artist to research, write a biography, make an art project, and do a presentation. Please review the packet with your student and the due dates. The first due date is Friday, October 28th and it is the signed letter and artist choice.
School Pictures. School Pictures will be happening next Thursday, October 27th. Everyone needs to register their student before picture day. To register visit this link: Register for School Photos, click "Register for school photos," and enter Villa2022. Then click on the button that says "open album." You will be directed to a registration form that will allow you to register your child for school photos. Enter your name (parent name) and the child's name, and then select the appropriate class for the child. Add additional children if needed by clicking the "register another child" button.
Middle School ACE Building Open House: 6th grader families are welcome to the ACE building Open House this Wednesday, October 19th from 7-8:30 pm.
Homework: Students will be finishing up their review packet for homework this week and will be getting their next homework packet this Friday, October 21st.
Villa’s Trunk or Treat: Villa will be hosting a “Trunk or Treat” event free of charge on Saturday, October 29, happening at the Villa Elementary Field! For families attending the event, please park at ECC or Elementary Campus parking lots and enter through the Elementary Carline gates (look for signs/balloons). There is limited parking available for this event - each campus will have a designated walk-through time as follows: 4-4:45 PM ECC (Infants, Toddlers, Primary), 5-5:45 PM Elementary 1, and 6-6:45 PM Elementary 2 and Middle School. If your family has students in different program levels, please choose one walk-through time to attend. Each person will get a ticket when they enter to VOTE for their favorite trunk!
SF
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October 3, 2022
Field Trip: We will be taking our first class field trip to the Arizona Museum of Natural History this Thursday, October 6th. We will be leaving school around 9:30 am and returning for lunch around 12 pm. Thank you to the parent chaperones and drivers for volunteering their time and energy!
Rock Fish Party: This Friday, October 7th will be our first Rock Fish Party. Students are allowed to wear their pajamas and cozy clothes to school and participate in our Rock Fish Party activities (Barter Day and Movie selected by SF). Students may also bring one pillow and one blanket. Please review the Barter Day Rules below with your child
- Barter Day Rules
- No Money
- No food/candy
- No stealing
- Shake on trades (with a witness)
- No trade backs (unless both traders agree)
- Things to bring
- Stuff to trade (parent approved)
- A towel to put stuff you are trading on.
- Procedures
- We will be doing barter day out on the slab. You will set up your trading stuff on half of a table, or on a towel on the ground. Students will walk around trading, if you agree on a trade with someone, shake hands with them, with a witness! If you do not shake on the trade or have a witness, the trade does not count.
- Barter day will happen on Friday,
Fall Break is next week, Monday, October 10th – Friday, October 14th.
Homework: Students should have their homework folder completed by Friday. They will be getting a review packet Friday to start working on over break. One math lesson and one reading log is due the Monday we get back from break.
Whole Class Lessons Given in September (weeks 5-9)
Writing: Weekly Writing Prompts
- Letters-Invitations
- Realistic Fiction- Letters
- Historical Fiction- A New Life in Old California
- Social Studies Article-Lewis, Clark, and Sacagawea
- Social Studies Article- The Everglades
- Story works
- Crab Crossing-mini read
- Back to School Around the World-non fiction
- The Amazing Boat Race of 9/11- non fiction
- My tongue is like a Map- Poetry
- Creation of Complex Elements
- Mapping the Solar System
- Planet Brochures and " #1 galaxy planet destination" competition
- Human's Closest Relatives
- Hispanic Heritage Month
- Latitude and Longitude
- Pangea and Continental Drift
- Africa and African Continent
September 26, 2022
Scholastic Book Fair: The Scholastic Book Fair is happening this week in the E2 library!
Students will have a chance to visit the book fair during school hours, but will need an adult with them if they plan to attend before or after school. Please make sure if your student brings money to school it is in a bag or something with their name on it, in case they misplace their money.
Book Fair Hours:
Monday, Wednesday, and Friday: 8am -5pm
Tuesday and Thursday: 7:30 am -2:30 pm
Field Trip: Our class field trip to the Arizona Museum of Natural History is next week on Thursday, October 6th. If you have not completed your student's permission slip yet, please do so by this Friday.
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Monday, September 19, 2022
Goal Setting Conferences: We will continue Goal Setting Conferences this week. This Friday, September 23rd is another Half-Day school will be out at 11:30 am.
If you have not done so already, please sign-up for a time to meet by clicking the following link
- https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090f4faead29a6f58-sfgoal
- If none of the available times work for you please email me at [email protected] and we can find another date and time that will work.
Scholastic Book Fair: The Scholastic Book Fair will be coming to the Villa Library next week, September 26th – September 30th! Check out more info here, Book Fair Homepage (scholastic.com)
- We also need parent volunteers to help out at the book fair. If you are interested in volunteering, sign-up here Book Fair Volunteers: Villa Montessori School (signupgenius.com)
Field Trip: We will be taking our first fieldtrip on Thursday, October 6th to the Arizona Natural History Museum. Permission slips were sent home already. Our Parent Chaperone list and drivers are full at this time, but feel free to reach out ot me if needed.
With Grace,
SF
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September 12, 2022
Goal Setting Conferences: This Friday, September 16th and next Friday, September 23rd are both half-days for Goal Setting Conferences. School will be out at 11:30 am.
The Goal Setting Conferences will be taking place out back of the classroom or in the classroom, Room 218, depending on the time. Students will be sharing their goals for the school year with parents and teacher.
If you have not signed-up yet please do so by clicking the following link,
- https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090f4faead29a6f58-sfgoal
If none of the available times work for you please email me and we can figure out another date and time to meet.
Homework: Students received new homework packets on Friday. Students should do one lesson per night, a calendar for when each lesson should be completed is in each homework folder. Please continue to check and initial your student’s math homework and reading log each night.
With kindness,
SF
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September 6, 2022- Week 5 of School
What a wonderful three day weekend to celebrate our hard working citizens. I hope you enjoyed this extra time with family and friends.
Goal Setting Conferences: We will be having Goal Setting Conferences Friday, September 16th and Friday, September 23rd, both days are half-days and school is out at 11:30 am. Goal setting conferences include the student, parents and teacher and are meant for the students to share their goals for this school year.
Please sign-up for a time to have a Goal Setting Conference by clicking the link below
- https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090f4faead29a6f58-sfgoal
Field Trip: We will be taking our first fieldtrip on Thursday, October 6th to the Arizona Natural History Museum. Permission slips will be sent home on Friday. We do need parent drivers and chaperones to help with the trip, please indicate on the permission slip if you are able to help out <3
Homework: Students will be finishing up their Rev-Up packets this week and will be getting their new homework packet this Friday, September 9th. Students continue to do one math lesson a night and at least 20 minutes of reading. In addition, students will complete a book report by the end of the month as well as prepare a meal by the end of the month. Finally, 4th graders will also begin their daily math facts log sheet.
Whole Class Lessons Given in August
Writing: Weekly Writing Prompts
- Editorial- Uniforms are not the answer
- Letters- Pen Pals
- Story works
- Imaginative Poetry- Where I'm from
- The three headed beast- Fictional Play
- The Big Bang
- Life cycle of a star
- Timeline of Numbers Group Presentation
- 5 themes of geography
- Writing Prompt
- STAR
- Math
- ELA
- Spelling
- Math facts
- The beginning of the Universe
- Life comes to Earth
- The Coming of Humans
- The timeline of Writing
- The timeline of Numbers
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August 26th, week 4
Pizza Friday: Our first Pizza Friday will be this Friday, September 2nd. A big thank you to all our families that have signed up to be a Pizza Hero (pick up pizza and complete laundry).
Goal Setting Conferences: We will be having Goal Setting Conferences Friday, September 16th and Friday, September 23rd, both days are half days and school will be out at 11:30 am.
The conference will be with the student, parents and teacher. During this conference your child will share what they have achieved so far and what their goals are for the year. They will be sharing a goal setting sheet that they have completed prior to their conference.
Goal Setting Conferences will be in person . Morning conferences will be done in our back ODE (out door environment) as well as afternoon conferences will happen in the classroom, Room 218.
Here is the link for the sign-up,
- https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090F4FAEAD29A6F58-sfgoal
No School Monday, September 5th for Labor Day. Have a nice three-day weekend!
SF
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Monday, August 22, 2022:
Parents, we have been settling into our cozy classroom and thriving. We have finished our summer book reports and started some of our group projects.
Pizza Friday: Pizza Friday will begin next Friday, September 2nd. If you have not done so already please turn in the Pizza Friday form by this Friday, August 26th. Please also notify me if your student will not be participating. If you would like to be a PIZZA FRIDAY HERO and sign up to pick up pizzas on Friday here is the link.
- https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f0f44aca82eaafe3-pizza1
This Friday, August 26th is a Half-Day, for Staff Professional Development. All of the school will be dismissed at 11:30 am, No Circle.
Art Masterpiece: If anyone is interested in volunteering to be our class Art Masterpiece instructor this year you can sign up under the Parent Volunteer tab above. We have a Villa parent who will help you with the program as well.
<3
SF
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Friday, August 19, 2022
We had a great first two weeks of school. It was a pleasure to see many of you at parent orientation, and I've enjoyed getting to know our new 218 classroom community. We've started on a few classroom projects like "rock fish", " clubs", and our "class puzzle". We've also learned about the first 4 great Montessori Lessons, and started our investigations into geometry. I encourage you to ask your student about these activities.
Enrichments: Students had a preview of the enrichment classes that will be offered this year on Friday. You should have received an email on Friday as well with instructions on how to sign-up. Sign-ups started Monday, August 15th.
Volunteer Opportunities: Please view the sign-ups above for opportunities to sign-up in the classroom this year. Parent Volunteer Sign-Up has opportunities to come help in the classroom, the Helping Hands Sign-Up has items that you can donate to the classroom, and the Class Pet Sign-Up has opportunities to house Truffle for the weekend. Thank you so much for all that you have done already.
Homework: Students got their first homework folder on Friday, Aug. 12th. The first packet is a “Rev Up” packet which has review material from their previous grade level. Students are expected to complete one math lesson a night and read for at least 20 minutes. We ask that you support your child by checking their homework each night and initial on their reading log as well. We included a calendar for when each lesson is due and a checking key for parents in their folders.
If a student does not complete their homework or reading they will work on it during their mid-day recess time until it is completed.
Pizza Fridays: We will be starting having pizza Fridays on Friday, September 2nd. Forms to sign-up were in the Parent Orientation packet. Please return the completed form by Friday, August 26th. If you need support or a different payment plan please reach out to me by email at [email protected]
All my love,
SF
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August 3, 2022
Hello everyone! I hope you all have had a nice summer and are looking forward to the start of the new school year. A couple of things to note before we start school on Monday.
Open House:
- We will be having an Open House this Friday, August 5th from 1-2pm in our classroom, Room 218. Students and parents are welcome to stop by and say hello, as well as, drop off any school supplies, we will have supply wagons in the carline area to help with bringing supplies in (If you need a copy of this year’s supply list you can find it under the tab above labeled Supply List).
First Day of School:
- The first day of school is Monday, August 8th. Students may arrive for morning recess at 7:45 am and school begins at 8:30 am. Dismissal is at 3:00 pm.
Summer Homework:
- All summer homework is due the first week back to school. The main goal is that all students feel successful and prepared coming into class the first week of school so please help support your child with completing their summer work. Students will also be presenting their book projects to the class the first week as well. Book Report presentations will be held the first week of school starting Tuesday, Aug. 8th. Book Reports should be 5-10min long.
Parent Orientation:
- We will be having our Parent Orientation night on Thursday, August 11th at 6:30 pm in the classroom, Room 218. We ask that at least one parent attends the orientation, please mark your calendars.
Parent Volunteer Sign Up- Sign Up Genius
Feel free to sign up if you see an opportunity that interests you.
- Helping Hands- https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090F4FAEAD29A6F58-sfs
- Volunteer List- https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090F4FAEAD29A6F58-sfvolunteer
- Pizza Friday- coming soon!
If you have any questions, please feel free to email me at [email protected]
With anticipation,
Sarahfina
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June 2nd
Families,
Thank you so much for your generous donation. It is lavish and I am speechless. We have had such a wonderful year together. Thank you Thank you Thank you.
Summer Homework
Students, I hope you have a great summer. I can’t wait to hear all your stories and adventures. This is your summer homework. Below you will see descriptions of the homework components for you to complete. Summer work must be completed when school starts. If you have unfinished work, you will be completing your homework during study hall.
During the summer, I will be away from my computer and checking emails intermittently. I encourage you to utilize our SF google chat and classmates for immediate support here
SF 218 Chat or https://mail.google.com/chat/u/0/#chat/space/AAAAv46gioY or my school email address [email protected]
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- Summer Reading Log
- Keep a summer reading log
- Book Report
- Students, please pick 1 book report to complete over the summer.
- Attached are different types of book reports where you can select the one you would like to do.
- Students will present their book report during the first few weeks of school.
- Students, please pick 1 book report to complete over the summer.
- Homework Packet
- Here is your Math summer homework.
- There are a total of 6 weeks, with work to be completed Monday-Friday.
- The Answer Key is also attached.
- Here is your Math summer homework.
- Summer Activity Journal
- Keep a journal about what you did over the summer (at least 10 entries) or make a series of short stories
- Take a picture to share with the class of what you did over the summer
Have a great summer vacation!
SF
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Monday, May 16th:
Hello families,
We had a really fun time during our preview day. We are excited for next year and summer vacation to come. As we wind down for the end of the year, here are some upcoming activities for this week and next.
- Tues 5/17 Ice Cream Truck: the Old School Ice Cream Truck will be coming to school. Please make sure you sign your student’s permission slip and turn it in by tomorrow morning. You may also send me an email stating your student may participate.
- Thurs 5/19 6th Grade Tea party at 10:00. The class will be hosting a tea party with the 6th graders as the guests of honor. 4th and 5th graders will be serving and preparing small snacks and then joining in the overall tea party. Small finger food, snacks, and treat donations would be greatly appreciated!
- Thurs 5/19 Talent Show at 1:00: The student led talent show will be happening this Thursday, May 19th in the E2 ODE area starting around 1 pm.
- Fri 5/20 6th Grade Celebration at 10:00 - 6th grade parents are invited to attend the intimate celebration in class 218 in the morning. If you would like a zoom link to view in please email me at [email protected]
- Mon 5/23 Cleaning the Classroom 8:30-10:30: This Monday, May 23th we will be cleaning the classroom and students will be taking all of their supplies home for the year. Please have your student bring in extra bags for their supplies and materials to take home over summer.
- Mon 5/23: Pool Party at 10:30- Hosted by the Fotheringham family (thank you so much!). The students will attend the class pool party during the school day. They will walk to the Fotheringham’s around mid-morning and return before carline at the end of the school day. If you are interested in providing snacks, food, and more, please contact our class coordinator Kylie.
- Tues 5/24: Last Day of School, and taking Portfolios home: Students will be taking home their portfolios this week to show samples of work they completed this semester. They also have their goal page that they filled out from the beginning of the year to now.
Summer Homework folders were passed out today. Students need to complete the following for summer homework:
- Complete the 6 weeks of math practice
- Read at least one book, keep a reading log, and complete one book project to be presented to the class when we return from summer
- Keep a summer journal or make up short stories
- Practice their math facts if needed, you can find resources under the tab above labeled Math Fact Practice and bring in a picture/pictures of their summer.
- if you have any questions about summer homework please email me at [email protected]
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Monday, May 2, 2022
Overnight Trip: Next week, Monday, May 9th – Wednesday, May 11th is our overnight trip to Prescott, Arizona. Please make sure you have completed the online waiver form and returned any necessary medication form as soon as possible. A reminder page will be sent home this Thursday with important notes for the trip. You will need to pack a sack lunch for your student on Monday to be eaten when we arrive at the camp.
If you have any questions, please email me at [email protected]
This Friday, May 6th and next Friday, May 13th will be Half-Days, school will be out at 11:30 am.
Progress Reports: I will be emailing 2nd semester progress reports out by next week.
Upcoming dates in class 218:
- Fri 5/6 is a half day. Progress reports will be sent home by the end of the day (hopefully).
- Mon- Wed 5/9-5/12: Friendly Pines Overnight Field Trip: Depart from the school Monday morning with a bagged lunch ready to eat. Return to school Wednesday midday and have a pizza lunch provided by the school. Snack and drink donations would be greatly appreciated!
- Fri 5/13 is a half day. ***OPTIONAL**** Conferences. Sarahfina has reached out to families in need of a conference already. However, if you would like to hold a conference (via zoom or in person) please reach out to her. She will try to coordinate a time on Fri, 5/13.
- Tues 5/17: Ice-cream truck and treat (more info to come).
- Thurs 5/19: AM: 6th Grade Tea party. The class will be hosting a tea party with the 6th graders as the guests of honor. 4th and 5th graders will be serving and preparing small snacks and then joining in the overall tea party. Small finger food, snacks, and treat donations would be greatly appreciated! PM- E2 talent show.
- Fri 5/20: PM- 6th Grade Graduation in class 218. 6th grade parents are invited to attend the intimate celebration in class 218 in the afternoon.
- Mon 5/23: Pool Party- Hosted by the Fotheringham family (thank you so much!). The students will attend the class pool party during the school day. They will walk to the Fotheringham’s around mid-morning and return before carline at the end of the school day. If you are interested in providing snacks, food, and more, please contact our class coordinator Kylie.
- Tues 5/24: Last Day of School, full day.
Whole Class Lessons Given in January
Writing: Weekly Writing Prompts
- Journal Entry- A Weather Journal
- Story works
- Cinderella- The True? Story (Play)
- Science Fair
- Presentations
- Vital Functions of a Plant
- Adaptations of a Plant Project
- 4th -Maroo and the Winter Caves
- 5th -Chains
- 6th -The Golden Goblet
- End of novel project.
- Colonial Daily Life Project
- Giving Credit where Credit is due- Contributions of Women and People of Color in the Revolutionary War
- Colonial territories, 13 colonies, and Louisiana Purchase
- Azmerit
- Writing
- ELA
- Mathematics
- STAR
- Math
- ELA
- Spelling
- Math facts
April 25, 2022
Testing: Our class is doing the AASA ELA and Math tests today and tomorrow. I will be providing each student with a sugar-free mint and piece of gum each testing period. Students may also bring in their own sugar free gum or handy candy on testing days. Thank you to the families that have donated snacks to the class. We appreciate you.
The State Testing Schedule is as follows:
- Monday, April 25 - Math Part 1 in morning and ELA Part 1 in the afternoon
- Tuesday, April 26 - Math Part 2 in the morning and ELA Part 2 in the afternoon
TIPS FOR SUCCESSFUL TESTING:
- The most important thing that you can do for your child during testing is making sure that they come to school on the days they have tests. Making up a missed test means time out of class and losing important learning time that cannot be made up. In addition to attendance, your child will do their best on the tests if they:
- Get to bed early the night before to be well-rested on the day of the test
- Have a good breakfast on the morning of the test
- Come to school on time
- Be adequately hydrated
- Stay positive!
Science Fair: Students should now be working on their presentations for the Science Fair, which includes a tri-fold board, speech and live demonstration. Students will be presenting to the class starting this week on Wednesday. Parents are invited to come attend the class Science Fair happening on Thursday ,April 28th from 10 am -11 am in the Davis ODE area (by the library and circle room).
Overnight Trip: I have been informed that all participation forms need to be completed eletronicly for students to attended our class overnight trip to CampWay’s Friendly Pines camp in Prescott, Arizona. The trip will be happening Monday, May 9th – Wednesday, May 11th. I apologize for the miscommunication, but there is an easy solution! Here is a link to the form, Villa Montessori Liability Waivers (smartwaiver.com)
Also if your student takes medication please fill out and return the medication form and turn it in by this Friday, April 29th.
Upcoming dates in class 218
- Thurs 4/28
- Science Fair Parent walk through 10:00-11:00
- Sat 4/30
- Class social 1:00-3:00
- https://www.evite.com/event/0007PHNC7CXOP4QKEEPMYMHXMRL2FQ/activity?gid=03CCFEEAOXBZ5MZNCEPMYMHZ42CIZQ
- Tues 5/3
- Chaperone Meeting at 3:30 (please attend if you are a chaperone)
- Thurs 5/5
- 6th Grade Tea party (more information from students to come)
- Fri 5/6
- 1/2 day OPITIONAL Conferences (sign up genius coming soon)
- Mon- Wed 5/9-5/12- Friendly Pines Overnight Field Trip
- Fri 5/13
- 1/2 day OPITIONAL Conferences
- Tues 5/17
- Ice-cream truck and treat (more info to come)
- Fri 5/20
- 6th Grade Graduation in class 218 (6th graders will be creating a letter to send home to parents soon).
- Mon 5/23
- Pool Party (TBD.)
- Tues 5/24
- Last Day of School, full day
April 18, 2022
State Testing: Our class will be doing the AASA ELA and Math tests next week on Monday, April 25th and Tuesday, April 26th.. Students may bring in their own sugar free gum or handy candy on testing days. Thank you to the parent volunteers that have signed up to bring snacks for the class. We appreciate you.
In class we have been going over the practice tests, but if you would like your student to also practice at home you can find the practice tests here AASA | Arizona Department of Education (azed.gov)
The State Testing Schedule is as follows:
Monday, April 25 - ELA Part 1 in morning and Math Part 1 in the afternoon
Tuesday, April 26 - ELA Part 2 in the morning and Math Part 2 in the afternoon
TIPS FOR SUCCESSFUL TESTING:
The most important thing that you can do for your child during testing is making sure that they come to school on the days they have tests. Making up a missed test means time out of class and losing important learning time that cannot be made up. In addition to attendance, your child will do their best on the tests if they:
- Get to bed early the night before to be well-rested on the day of the test
- Have a good breakfast on the morning of the test
- Come to school on time
- Be adequately hydrated
- Stay positive!
Science Fair Project: The next item due for the Science Fair project is the Final Draft of the Written Report due this Friday, April 22nd.
Students should also be working on making their presentation now which includes a tri-fold board, live demonstration, and oral presentation.
Students will be presenting once in class and then will also be presenting during a fair style time on Thursday, APril 28th. Parents are allowed to come to the fair style presentation on April 28th from 10 am – 11am, located in the Davis ODE area (outside area of building 2828A).
Villa Auction: Our class finished our class art auction items last week. We did a recycle art piece using a wood blook, upcycled string, and gently used nails to create a string art masterpiece. . Make sure to take some time to view the items through the online auction by clicking the following link Villa Montessori's Week of Giving 2022 - GalaBid The in-person Villa Auction is this Saturday, April 23rd.
Overnight Trip: We will be sending home a packet today for our class overnight trip to CampWay’s Friendly Pines camp in Prescott, Arizona. The trip will be happening Monday, May 9th – Wednesday, May 11th.
Included in the packet is a packing list, important information about the trip, and a waiver that needs to completed and returned by Friday, April 29th. Here is are final chaperone list.
- Jerry Dillon
- Lisa Posever
- Sean Campbell
- Brad Tenbrook
- Kristen Nelson
- Kiara Howerzyl
"“Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.”
– No Name in the Street, James Baldwin".
SF
** I know it's a little late but here are the lessons we had in March and a few weeks into April**
Whole Class Lessons Given in January
Writing: Weekly Writing Prompts
- Science Article-Earth on the Move
- Historical Fiction-A Journey Begins
- Interview-This inventor is all thumbs
- Journal Entry-An Oregon Trail Diary
- Fable-Why Making Maple Syrup is Hard
- News Article-"Hot Sauce" is Sizzling.
- Story works
- Vanish-Amelia Earhart (Nonfiction)
- The Mystery of the Old Sea Captain (Fiction)
- AZ Merit Practice test- ELA
- Science Fair
- Journal Check and Guidance
- Rough Draft
- Bibliography Citation
- Trifold Poster guidance and check
- Vital Functions of a Plant
- Circulatory system
- Respiration system
- 4th -Maroo and the Winter Caves
- 5th -Chains
- 6th -The Golden Goblet
- The Men of the Enlightenment period and how it affected the colonist
- Timeline of the Revolutionary Period 1754-1783
- Small Group focus on specific periods within the timeline and presentation.
- Revolutionary Period, main events and locations
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March 21, 2022
I hope everyone had a safe and enjoyable Spring Break!
Science Fair: Students should be working on their projects now and recording their data and observations in their Science Fair Journals. The next thing due is a Science Journal check today, March 22th.
Homework: Students should be completing Lesson 99 tonight to be turned in tomorrow and Lesson 100 is due this Wednesday, March 23 which will be the last lesson in this current math packet. Students will be getting a couple of weekly review packets for homework after completing the current packet. They should complete one lesson a night and continue to read at least 20 minutes per night.
State Testing Dates: Our class will be testing on the following days, please mark the dates on your calendar.
Tuesday, March 29th: AZSCI test (Science Test) for only the 5th graders
Wednesday, April 6th: AASA Writing Test for 4th, 5th and 6th graders
Monday, April 25th: AASA ELA and Math Part 1 test for 4th, 5th and 6th graders
Tuesday, April 26th: AASA ELA and Math Part 2 test for 4th, 5th and 6th graders
We have been going over the practice tests in class but if you would like your student to practice at home you can find the practice tests here AASA | Arizona Department of Education (azed.gov)
Our grant for raised beds and a community gardens was approved! Here is more information about it.
- https://www.donorschoose.org/project/sustainable-beauty-through-teamwork-and/6279211/?utm_source=dc&utm_medium=directlink&utm_campaign=project&utm_term=teacher_8366834&rf=directlink-dc-2022-03-project-teacher_8366834&challengeid=21911727
- We would like to have a “spring gardening brunch” sometime in the next few weeks. More information to come
Happy Spring,
<3
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March 9, 2022
Overnight Payment Form: If you have not done so already, please turn in the red overnight payment form by this Wednesday, March 9th. Please indicate on the form if you want us to bill you through your monthly statement or attach a check to Villa Montessori for $150.
Pajama Day: This Friday, March 11th will be our next Pajama Day. Students may wear their pajamas to school. They may also bring one pillow and a blanket. If they would like to bring a movie to watch please make sure it is school appropriate and rated G or PG. We will select one movie together to watch Friday afternoon.
Lost and Found: Please remind your student to check the Lost and Found this week for any missing items. Items will be displayed in carline and students will have some time to check the items during their PE time. We will be donating the items left over on Friday, March 11th.
Science Fair: Students should be working on their projects now and recording their data and observations in their Science Fair Journals. The next thing due is a Science Journal check on Friday, March 25th.
Spring Break will be next week Monday, March 14th – Friday, March 18th.
There will be one math lesson, Lesson 98, and one reading log due when we return on Monday, March 21st.
"“I love myself when I am laughing. . ." Zora Neale Hurston
SF
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February 28, 2022
Overnight Payment Form: Today we are sending home the payment form for the Overnight Trip in the students’ Homework Folders. Please fill out the form and return no later than Wednesday, March 9th.
We have gotten many volunteers to be a chaperone on the trip. We will be doing a lottery to choose chaperones and alternates. We will notify chaperones this week if they were chosen.
Homework: Students should continue to do one math practice lesson and read for at least 20 minutes a night. Lesson 89 is due tomorrow, Tuesday, March 1st.
Science Fair: Students should now be starting their science experiments. They should be using their Science Journals they made in class to collect data and write down observations. They should also be taking pictures or making illustrations of the process. The next due date is March 22th and I will be doing a Science Journal check.
Whole Class Lessons Given in January
Writing: Weekly Writing Prompts
- Character Sketch
- Biography
- Book Review
- News Article
- Story works
- Becoming Darth Vader and Presentations
- Disaster on the Ice Play
- Poetry
- Your World (Harlem Renaissance)
- Black History Timeline Project
- Groups, research, illustrations, and preparing for presentations
- Science Fair
- Hypothesis and Experiment Design
- Research
- Vital Functions of a Plant- Nutrition
- 4th -Maroo and the Winter Caves
- 5th -Chains
- 6th -The Golden Goblet)
- Black History
- Celebrating Black Excellence- Ancient African Tribes and Achievements
- Quakers vs Puritans
- 7 years War and Pontiac's Uprising
- Comparing Colony Regions
- 13 Colonies Origins
- Lunar New Year, exploration and celebrations
Current Events: Given the current events happening in Ukraine, the children may have questions. I will encourage them to talk to their parents. You may find this article helpful in speaking to your child.
https://www.nytimes.com/2022/02/25/well/family/kids-teens-ukraine-russia.html
All my love,
SF
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January 31, 2022
PTO Fun Run: The PTO Fun Run was a huge success! As a class, we raised $110.17 per lap. The incentives the students earned will happen the week of February 22nd. Individual prizes will be mailed out this month
AASA Writing Field Test: All students in Grades 3-8 will participate in a Stand-Alone Field Test for Writing, our class will be taking the test this Thursday, February 3, 2022. Makeups will happen February 16-18, 2022.
Science Fair: This semester students will be completing a project for the Science Fair. Packets are being sent home today in students’ Communication Folders. Please review the packet with your student. The first item due is the signed letter which is due this Friday, February 4th.
Valentine Grams: If you have not so already please send in a bag of Hershey kisses to donate to our E2 Valentine Grams fundraiser
- Valentine's Day is around the corner...time to send your loved ones a little treat - or perhaps show some appreciation for your favorite teacher or administrator?
- We will continue to offer the Smencils- delicious smelling pencils.
- We’re excited about this fun, eco-friendly treat that we know all kids & adults will love. The Tiny Plush Animals are also available again!
- Kisses $3
- Smencil $3
- Kisses + Smencil $5
- Tiny Plush $5
- Tiny Plush + Kisses $6
- Tiny Plush + Kisses + Smencil $8
- CLICK HERE for the Valentine Gram order form. Please fill out a separate form for each person. You may enclose the orders in an envelope with cash or check made out to Villa Montessori and deposit it in one of the Valentine Boxes ~ located at Elementary, Early Childhood, Middle School offices.
- The sale runs from Tuesday, February 1, 2022, through Monday, February 14, 2022. Deliveries will be made on Monday, February 14. Extra order forms will be available in each campus office. Funds raised will go to overnight scholarships first with remaining funds used for Elementary II classroom materials or activities
- Students are also allowed to pass out their own Valentines to the class on Monday, February 14th.
Overnight Trip: This year we will be bringing back the overnight trip. We will be going by whole class this year rather than by grade level. We are going to attend Friendly Pines in Prescott, AZ through the CampWay program from Monday, May 9th – Wednesday, May 11th. The cost to attend the overnight trip is $150 per student.
More information about the trip is being sent home today in your student’s communication folder. You can also go visit the website at https://gocampway.com/friendly-pines for more details about the site.
Please review the information and return the second page by Friday, February 18th.
Whole Class Lessons Given in January
Writing: Weekly Writing Prompts
- Personal Narrative
- Book Review
- Fantasy
- Editorials
- Story works
- Trapped in a Cave
- Poetry
- Dear Sky
- I am
- Photosynthesis
- Defenses of a Plant
- Vital Functions of a Plant (work exploration)
- 4th -Maroo and the Winter Caves
- 5th -Chains
- 6th -The Golden Goblet)
- Lost Colony of Roanoke
- Jamestown
- A look at Matoaka (Pocahontas)
- Mayflower Puritans and the Mayflower Compact
- Biomes
- Transformations of Wampanoag Life from the Paleoindian Period through the Colonial Era
January 10, 2022
Parents, welcome to week 20 of school. It has been fun coming back to the classroom and showing our new assistant Ren the wonderous atmosphere of room 218. My focus has been on setting Ren up for success this week and I apologize for not sending our a sign up genius for parent teacher conference earlier.
Parent Teacher Conferences: Parent Teacher Conferences start this Friday, January 14th. Friday will be a Half-Day and school will be out at 11:30 am.
- During this conference time the parent, student and teacher will be present. We will be discussing Progress Reports and portfolios. Students will be sharing their portfolios which have their goals for the year and examples of work they have done so far this school year.
- Progress reports will be emailed to parents at least 24 hours before your student’s conference time. You can choose to have the conference either in person or via Zoom, please review the sign up genuis for zoom or in person options available. If you choose in person meetings, you will be meeting at the 218 O.D.E table (by the garden).
- please sign-up for a conference time by clicking the link below
Middle School Meeting: For 6th grade parents, the Middle School will be doing a virtual presentation to educate current 6th grade parents on the Middle School program for the coming school year. It will be happening this Thursday, January 13, 2022 from 6:30-8:00 P.M.
- Zoom Link for Virtual Meeting:
Time: Jan 13, 2022 06:30 PM Arizona
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86092676696?pwd=c2JxM0R1aDZBcEdRNWFCUGZyWVBUdz09
Meeting ID: 860 9267 6696
Passcode: g9PNW8
Homework: Students should be finishing their math homework folder this week, the last lesson in their current folder, Lesson 60, is due Thursday morning.
Rock Fish Party- Students have earned another rock fish party. They have chosen to host a Barter Day this Friday and would like to have an outing to the park next Friday. We are looking for at least 5 parent volunteers to walk students to the park next Fri the 14th. Please email me if you are interested in helping :)
No School Monday, January 17th in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
Please feel free to email me with any questions, comments, or concerns
SF
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December 17, 2021
Families, thank you so much for your gifts, words of encouragement, kindness, and support. I feel greatly loved and appreciated.
Cookie Decorating Activity- Our cookie decorating activity was a success. Students should be bringing home their sweet treats today. Thank you for the cookies, icing, sprinkles and a special thanks to our Volunteers <3
Ugly Sweater Party- We had a blast having our first annual ugly sweater party. We celebrated the spirit of community and generosity with a secret Santa exchange and sharing our wishes for the 2022 year. The kids had a great time.
Novel Study: Next semester we will begin our novel studies. More information to come.
Homework: Over the Winter Break students should be completing one math lesson, Lesson 52, and one reading log.
Winter Break: Monday, December 20th – Friday, December 31st
School Resumes: Monday, January 3rd, 2022
I hope everyone has a wonderful Winter Break and a Happy New Year!
SF
December 3rd, 2021
Families,
We made it to December. This is my favorite time of the year, and not just because it's my birthday month. I love how communities come together to share celebrations, thankfulness, Yule tidings, and more. Here are a few announcements below.
Pot Luck Brunch: We will be holding our Pot luck on Saturday Dec. 11th on campus. More details from our parent coordinator will come soon. We hope to see you there!
Food Drive: Our 6th graders are continuing their food drive service project. Please continue to donate any available items. The final day for the food drive will be Sat. Dec 11th at the conclusion of the Pot Luck Brunch.
Homework: Students received new homework math folders this week, as well as new reading log (focus on non-fiction/informational texts) and a meal project. Please reach out with any questions.
Cookie Decorating Activity: This year we will be hosting a cooking decorating activity outside on Dec 17th before we leave for break. More details to come soon.
Cultural Lessons given in October: (all lessons are posted in Google Classroom and available for review)
Geography/ History
-5 Regions of the USA
- North East
-West
-South
-South West
-Mid West
-Ancient City Planning Presentations (Create your own city)
Science
- Nutrition in plants
-Circulation "The upword Flow"
-The Scientific Method (experiments
-#7: Ascent of Liquids in the Plant
-#6: Ascent of Liquids in the Plant
-#7a:Capillarity
-#8: Transpiration )
Read aloud/Enrichment
- HERD museum exploration and discovery
Editing theme and Weekly Writing prompts
-Social Studies Article- Gold!
-Science Article-Electric Energy
-Science Article: Terrific Teeth
"Let us choose for ourselves our path in life, and let us try to strew that path with flowers."— Emilie du Chatelet, mathematician, physicist, and author"
SF
November 15, 2021
Donations: This time of the year the Villa Community has many opportunities for people to donate items to different charities. Below are some opportunities for donations.
PTO Book Drive: If you have any books to donate to the PTO Book Drive a parent will be parked in the Elementary parking lot during Carline time this week.
Girl Scouts Food Drive: The Girl Scouts are doing a can food drive. They will have collection boxes at Elementary Carline. They are collecting non-perishable donations, November 15 - 23. These foods will benefit our neighbors in the Creighton School District.
6th Grade Service Project- St Mary's Food Bank: Our 6th graders will be creating a service project to collection food donations to St. Mary's food. More details to come soon.
Homework: Students should be continuing to do one math lesson and at least 20 minutes of reading a night. Lesson 34 is due tomorrow, Tuesday, November 16th.
SF
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November 3, 2021
I hope everyday had a fun weekend. We are heading straight into November with a great heart and a great attitude. I've seen a great deal of teamwork. collaboration, and communication throughout the classroom. Nice work class.
Here are a few announcements
School Picture make up day: Nov. 9th
Homework: Students got a new math homework folder on Friday. Students should be turning in Lesson 23 this morning and continue to do one math lesson and at least 20 minutes of reading each night, Monday-Friday.
Candy and Toys in the classroom: A gentle reminder to refrain from bringing toys or candy to school.
Cultural Lessons given in October: (all lessons are posted in Google Classroom and available for review)
Geography/ History
-Bering Land Bridges
-4 regions of Native America in the U.S.A
-Pacific Northwest
-Plains
-Eastern Woodlands
-Southwest
Science
- The Nitrogen Cycle
- "Menu" of the plant
- Roots-water seekers
-Roots-water seekers experiments and the scientific method
Read aloud/Creative Writing
- Native American Stories
-Spooky Stories
-writer's circle
Editing theme and Weekly Writing prompts
-Social Studies Article- Everglades
-Science Article-Arrowhead in Space
-Social Studies Article: A Monumental Tribute
"“Not everything that is faced can be changed; but nothing can be changed until it is faced,” James Baldwin 1962
SF
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Oct 27th,
Hello families. It was a pleasure to see many of you at the Halloween Social. If anyone took pictures, please feel free to add them to my class Shutterfly account. To add photos go to Shutterfly | Photo Books, Cards, Prints, Wall Art, Gifts, Wedding login with username: [email protected] and the password: Shutterfly218
- Once on the site go to My Photos at the top, then click Albums, then click the album "Class 218 Socials (21-22)" to add photos.
- You can view the photos from this year and add any that you may have. Please do not share any photos on social media without permission.
Here are a few updates and reminders.
- Half day on Friday
- Our first attempt at a class photo are missing a few students, we will be trying again on a day with full attendance
- Homework:
- Students should be completing their math homework packet this week by turning in Lesson 20 this Friday. Students will get new packets on Friday and will need to complete Lesson 21 to be turned in on Monday, November 1st.
- Many students are coming to school without signature or without their homework. Let’s get back into 100% homework completion with parent signatures :)
- Reading logs. I’m attaching blank reading logs for any parents that need additional sheets at home in my weekly email. It has been great getting to check in with students about their novels. Nov’s theme is historical fiction. Here is a list that could be used to select a novel. https://www.goodreads.com/shelf/show/6th-grade-historical-fiction
- Home Cooking Project- Many students have shared and presented their meals. Presentations have been creative and fun! Keep up the good work. I’m attaching more sheets in my weekly email in preparation for Nov. 1
- Students should be completing their math homework packet this week by turning in Lesson 20 this Friday. Students will get new packets on Friday and will need to complete Lesson 21 to be turned in on Monday, November 1st.
"“Love takes off the masks that we fear we cannot live without and know we cannot live within," James Baldwin, The Fire Next Time (1963).
SF
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Oct 18th,
Monday, October 18th:
Families, thank you so much for the vacation souvenirs and stories! We have had a delightful day in class sharing about our fall break experiences. Here are a few updates
- Vision and Hearing Screenings: We will be having Vision and Hearing Screenings tomorrow, October 19th. If your student wears glasses please make sure they bring them tomorrow for the screenings. At the E2 level all 6th graders, new students to Villa, and students who receive special services will be getting screened.
- October's reading log book talk is Mystery
- Picture Day: Picture Day will be this Thursday, October 21st for E2 students. Please make sure you register your student before Thursday.
Register for School Photos
**Parents, please navigate to this link, click on Register for School Photos, enter access
code Villa2021 then click on the button that says "open album". You will be directed to a
registration form that will allow them to register their children for school photos. Then you will
select the class your child is in to complete registration. You can click the + at the bottom of the
page to register more than one child.
- Halloween Get Together: Our class Halloween get together is this Saturday on October 23, 2pm at Granada Park. Kids and their adults and siblings are welcome to wear their costumes as we do some "trick or treating" family to family at the park! Families are asked to bring some candy to pass out and to sign up to bring something. Here is the link to the evite: http://evite.me/BzNkQStj6C Hope to see you there!
SF
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September 30th,
Families, we have finally made it through goal setting conferences. Great job all around.
Pizza Friday: Tomorrow Friday, October 1st will be the first Pizza Friday day for our class! Thank you to the parents who have already signed up to pick up pizza. As a reminder we are only serving pizza, so snacks and drinks are encouraged to be brought from home.
Home cooking project: It has been a pleasure seeing the cooking projects happening at home.
Book genre: October- Mystery
Looking ahead: Fall break Oct 11th- 15th
Whole Class Lessons Given in September
Cultural Lessons given in August: (all lessons are posted in Google Classroom and available for review)
Geography
-Maps
-population density
- Climate/Weather maps
- Water conservation
Science
- The Father of Modern Taxonomy
- Vital Functions
- The 4 elements of life research and presentations
History
-Sacred Origin Stories discussion and presentations
Read aloud
- Native American Stories (Origin, earth, fire, water, and Air)
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September 7th,
Hello families,
We are settling back into our classroom routines and already have some sprouts coming up in our garden! Here are some class updates
Fall Parent Conferences:
Families, we will be hosting Fall Parent Conferences via zoom on sept 17th and 24th. We will be discussing your student’s goals for the year, as well as other teacher recommendations. Please use the following link to sign
up for a time slot.
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090F4FAEAD29A6F58-fall
Pizza Friday:
Pizza Friday will be back this year! We will be getting pizza for our students every Friday starting on October
1st. Forms and payment information were sent home in your student’s Communication Folder this week. There
are three options to make payment:
Full Year of Pizza Friday = $120 due by Sept. 20th
First Half of Year = $50 due by Sept. 20th
Second Half of Year = $70 due by Jan 7th
Cultural Lessons given in August: ( all lessons are posted in Google Classroom and available for review)
(5) Great Lessons
The beginning of the universe
Life comes to earth
The Coming of Humans
History of Writing
Timeline of Numbers
Geography Maps
Latitude and Longitude
Types of Maps
5 Maps themes
Science
6 Kingdoms of life
Comparison and Contrast (Kingdoms of life)
History
Human Migration
Sacred Origin Stories
SF
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September 1st,
Families,
Thank you for your well wishes. We are back home in our classroom, loving our new color box.
This month our Book Talk genre is Classics. "To be generally agreed upon as a classic, works meet some common high standards for quality, appeal, longevity, and influence."
Here are some lists of common classic books for 9-12 year olds
https://www.readbrightly.com/classics-8-to-12-year-olds-say-are-worth-reading-today/
Anne of Green Gables
Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland
Little House in Big Woods
The Secret Garden
The Children of Green Knowe
Charlotte’s Web
Little Women
The Little Prince
Black Beauty
Adventures of Huckleberry Finn
Little Princess
Wind in the Willows
Heidi
The Railway Children
Treasure Island
Oliver Twist
Adventures of Tom Sawyer
Rebecca of SunnyBrook Farm
What Katy Did
Peter Pan
From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler
The Wonderful Wizard of Oz
The Swiss Family Robinson
The Hundred Dresses
Danny the Champion of the World
Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry
Where the Red Fern Grows
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Aug 27th,
Hello families,
Today we have a half day for all the children, including circle.
We will also start homework today. Students will be completing 1 math page and 20 mins of reading (recorded with reading logs). Our goal is to read a different genre each month and have a small "talk" after your student finishes their novel. I have attached digital copies in my parent email for your resource as well.
Have a great weekend!
SF
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Aug 19th 2021,
Whoooo oooooo!!!
What a week we have had. Our garden beds (filled to the brim with soil) are so happy for Monsoon season, but our classroom is not. We have had water damage and leakage all week. What started as a little trickle turned into a complete downpour. It caused quite the commotion in the room.
We have relocated to the circle room and library room for the time being. Hopefully, our restoration contractors can fix the room over the weekend. We have been focusing on patience, flexibility, trust, and the power of positive thinking. Feel free to share your positive thinking with me, it's been a bit of a stressful week haha!!
Looking ahead
-August 23- Specials Start
-August 27 - half day
-August 27 - nightly homework begins / first book talk due - folklore (in class)
-September 6 - No School
All my love,
SF
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Aug 10th,
Dear Parents,
This first week is going well. There have been smiles, laughter, and a lot of creativity! I can't wait to see how the rest of the school year unfolds. I will be adding an additional page with Parent Orientation information for you to review. It will be the same information used during the optional Virtual Open house on Thursday, Aug 12th at 6:30 (zoom link below)
Topic: SF Parent Meeting
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us04web.zoom.us/j/78965374693?pwd=OVd5T1VadWlFZ1hub2xrM01PMURvdz09
Below are a few reminders.
- All SUMMER HOMEWORK was due on the first day of school - August 9. Please turn in work as soon as possible.
- Summer Homework Expectations: Our goal with this work is to have the children stay engaged with some type of learning during their summer break. Homework included reading and math. Each child was required to read one book and choose a project to present about that book. All children will be presenting their book study project the first week of school.
- School Year Homework Expectations: Students will have nightly reading and math homework starting in August. Students are required to complete 1 math lesson and 20 minutes of reading Monday through Friday. Each month, students will have an assigned genre to read. Students are expected to complete and submit a book talk the last Friday of the month (some months students will be expected to present their book talk). Following is a list of the genres by month. Please refer to this to help support your child in completing their required monthly book talks.
- August: Folklore
- September: Traditional Literature / Classics
- October: Mystery
- November: Historical Fiction
- December: Informational / short nonfiction story about a culture of interest
- January: Science Fiction
- February: Biography/Autobiography of a Scientist (for our science fair)
- March: Fantasy
- April: Poetry
- May: Choice
- A link to help support you in choosing books
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Lunch and snacks
- Students will have lunch and snack at their assigned seat
- Students will wash hands before and after eating
- Students will use a place mat daily during lunch and snack times
- Technology use in the classroom
- Students may bring in their own devices to use for research, collaboration, and assignments. While we have limited devices in the classroom, we should have the ability to check out devices throughout the school year as needed.
- Presenting Book reports
- Students will be presenting their book reports after selecting a book report option. They may create a video of their report or present live to the class.
- Lunch and snacks
August 9 - First day of school / Summer homework due
August 12 - 6:30pm Parent Orientation (Zoom)
August 27 - half day
August 27 - nightly homework begins / first book talk due - folklore (in class)
September 6 - no School
With Gratitude,
SF
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Wednesday, Aug 4th, 2021
Families, can you believe that school starts next week!? There is so much excitement in the air here at school. We are busy prepping the classroom and getting ready for another fantastic year.
Here are a few reminders
-There is an optional open house for students on Friday, August 6th from 1:00-2:00
- School Starts on Monday, August 9th
- There will be a parent orientation night Thursday August 12th from 6:30-7:30 via zoom (link will be
sent out at a later time)
-Our class will be using google classroom as a Montessori Enrichment tool. Please use the code below
https://classroom.google.com/c/Mzc0MDEzNzMxNTU4?cjc=t5a2qpz
All my love,
SF
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Thursday, June 22nd, 2021
Hello families of 218,
I hope you all are having a fantastic summer break. I can’t believe we’ll be back in session starting Monday August 9th.
We will have a few changes in the classroom, as Ms. C has taken a position at another school to work as a lead in her own room. We are proud of you Caroline and will miss you dearly. Your class is lucky to have you. Our new classroom assistant Dylan has had experience as an substitute teacher, mindfulness instructor, art teacher, and various other roles that showcase their great-hearted approach to learning and children. I’m so excited for our community to embrace and get to know them soon.
As we are still uncertain how COVID-19 procedures will look like in the fall, I am preparing the classroom with both Google Classroom and hands on materials in the room. Please use the following link to access the Sarahfina 218 2021-2022 google classroom. Feel free to take a peek!
https://classroom.google.com/c/Mzc0MDEzNzMxNTU4?cjc=t5a2qpz
I will be sending out another welcome letter in a few weeks with more details about the school year. I will be available for more communication Aug. 2nd-6th.
All my love,
SF
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Wednesday, May 27, 2021
Well, it has been a whirlwind of a year. I cannot thank the families enough for your resilience, trust, support, and love. A big THANK YOU to families to donated to the end of the year teacher gift. I cannot express enough gratitude for everyone's genrousitioy.
Summer Homework: Summer homework for returning 4th and 5th graders were sent home last week. Remote learners who will be returning can pick up their summer homework packets in carline, they will be in my teacher box. 6th graders will be getting summer homework from the middle school. There are digital copies located in the google classroom as well.
Class photos and videos: In the google classroom are some class videos and a class photo. Please enjoy!
Have a wonderful summer and bring back stories to share in the fall <3 <3 <3 <3
SF
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May 17. 2021
Great Lives Project: Students will be presenting their Great Lives Projects in class next week, please see the list below showing when your student signed-up to present. If you would like to zoom in for your students presentation, please email me and I will send you a link.
Monday, May 17th: Kai, Maddox, Nathan, Keane
Tuesday, May 18th: Grady, Kali Lev, Ainsley, Maddie, Cash
Wednesday, May 19th: Meadow, Hilton, Kyra, Brooklyn, Georgia,
Thursday, May 20th: Lyla, Ateng, Rebecca, Arion, Stella,
Friday, May 21th: ( none due to 6th grade celebrations)
Monday, May 24th: Hudson, Elisa, Altana, Xavier, Aiden,
This Friday, May 21st we will be doing the 6th grade celebration over Zoom at 10:00 AM. 6th grade parents are welcome to join, here is the link
Topic: Sarahfina Fore's Zoom Meeting
Time: This is a recurring meeting Meet anytime
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us04web.zoom.us/j/72225906965?pwd=Q1RpUTFSdUxBTHNFTGQwejNDU2srQT09
Meeting ID: 722 2590 6965
Passcode: 6VDzZs
6th grade parents: 6th graders will be walking to the middle school next week to take a tour of their new campus. Students got a permission slip last week, please sign and return by this Friday, May 21st.
Students going to Orlando will be going on Monday, May 24th
Students going to Campbell will be going on Tuesday, May 25th
Next Wednesday, May 26th will be the last day of school. Next week we will be having the students clean the classroom and take home their work/supplies. Please have your student bring in an extra bag to take their things home in next week.
Parent Coordinator: A big THANK YOU to Kylie TenBrook for being our class parent coordinator this year! If anyone is interested in being the class parent coordinator next year, please email me at [email protected]
Summer Homework: We will be passing out summer homework this week. Returning 4th and 5th grade students will be getting homework packets from me, 6th graders will be getting their homework from the middle school.
Remote learners that will be returning next year can pick up their packets in carline this week, in my teacher’s box.
All my love,
SF
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Monday May 19th , 2021
Progress Reports: At this time, all progress reports have been sent home. Students have reviewed their progress report and should be talking to you about them at home, as well as sharing their favorite lesson from the year.
Great Lives Project: Students will be presenting their Great Lives Projects in class next week, please see the list below of when your student signed-up to present.
Monday, May 17th: Kai, Maddox, Nathan, Keane
Tuesday, May 18th: Grady, Kali Lev, Ainsley, Maddie, Cash
Wednesday, May 19th: Meadow, Hilton, Kyra, Brooklyn, Georgia,
Thursday, May 20th: Lyla, Ateng, Rebecca, Arion, Stella,
Friday, May 21th: ( none due to 6th grade celebrations)
Monday, May 24th: Hudson, Elisa, Altana, Xavier, Aiden,
Old School Ice Cream Truck: The Old School Ice Cream Truck is coming to Villa Wednesday, May 12th and Thursday, May 13th. Please make sure you sign your student’s permission slip and turn it by May 10th.
Tea Party: Our class will be hosting a Tea party to honor our 6th graders this week. Please feel free to encourage costumes and decorations!
Next Friday, May 14th will be a Half-Day, school will be out by 11:30 am.
6th Grade Graduation Celebration: Due to 6th grade shadow days, we will be having our 6th grade graduations on Friday, May 21st at 10:00. Will be be using the following zoom link for parents to watch! Sarahfina Fore is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us04web.zoom.us/j/72225906965?pwd=Q1RpUTFSdUxBTHNFTGQwejNDU2srQT09
All my love,
SF
<3
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May 5th, 2021
Happy Cinco De Mayo! Today we continue to integrate diversity and celebrate our different heritages with learning about the real history of Cinco de Mayo. I encourage you to talk to your student about some of the activities and lessons we had today.
6th Grade Celebration update:
We will be rescheduling our 6th grade celebration to Friday, May 21st at 10:00. This is due to Middle
School shadow days on May 24th (Orlando) and May 25th (Campbell). I apologize for the change of date,
but the decision to have shadow days was just approved. Here is a note from our 6th grade
leaders.
" Dear Parents,
The sixth grade graduation (previously taking place on May 25th) will now be held on May 21st, Friday
in the morning (please make sure to help your sixth grader out on their picture slideshow, video or
poster board.). Shadow Day is on the 24th and 25th, the reason for the change of dates. The details for
it will be sent out soon.
Thank you for your support,
The sixth graders"
<3
SF
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Monday, May 3, 2021
In Person Homework:
New math homework folders were sent home on Friday. Students should continue to do one math lesson.
It is also suggested to add 20 minutes of reading a night. Students should be completing Lesson 82
tonight for homework.
Ice Cream Social: Since we weren’t able to do our normal Ice Cream Social we will be having the Old School Ice Cream Bus come to Villa on May 12th and May 13th to allow students to pick out a treat.
We are asking for an optional donation of $5 and are sending a permission slip home today for you to sign. Please let us know if your student has any dietary restrictions on their permission slip. The treats that will
be available are on the back of the permission slip as well.
Please return the permission slips by Monday, May 10th.
Great Lives Projects:
Final papers are due today. Now, students should be focusing on completing their 3-5 minute presentation
with a visual aide (either a slideshow or tri-fold board) and their 3D Projects.
Everything is due the week of May 10th. Students will be signing up for a day to present to the
class this week.
Progress Reports:
I will be emailing 2nd semester Progress Reports by the end of day, Friday the 7th (5/7/21). Next Friday
(5/17/21) we will be offering optional conferences via zoom. I have already personally contacted the
families I need) to speak with and have coordinated meeting times. If I haven't contacted your family, that
means I feel confident in your students progress and have no concerns at this time. However, if you
have any questions or concerns and would like to set up a meeting time, please respond to my Progress
Report email and I will send you a sign up genius link.
This Friday, May 7th and next Friday, May 14th will be Half-Days, school will be out at 11:30 am.
Happy May!
<3 SF
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April 26, 2021
Parents and students, great cooperation during AzM2 testing. Way to go!
AZM2 Testing: Remote Learners are finishing their testing this week.
Monday: 4th, 5th , and 6th graders in remote learning are taking the ELA portion at school
Tuesday: 4th, 5th, and 6th graders in remote learning are taking the Math portion at school
Great Lives Project: Students should now be working on completing their 3D project and 3-5 minute presentation which includes a visual aide (either a tri-fold board or slideshow), requirements and rubrics are in the Great Lives packet. 3-D Projects and presentations will be due the week of May 10th. *** a reminder that the final rough draft has been extended to May 3rd.
SF
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Friday, April 16th
Auction Art Item: to celebrate our community and diversity, we decided to use recycled cloth to make a hand braided rug. We are excited for this item to find a good home.
Testing:
In Person Learners will be testing next week. The schedule is as follows:
Monday, April 19th: Writing, 4-6th graders
Tuesday, April 20th: ELA, 4th-6th graders
Wednesday, April 21st: Math, 4th-6th graders
Thursday, April 22nd: Science, only 5th graders
During testing days please make sure your student comes to school ON TIME, and remains in attendance for the full day on the days they have tests.
In addition to attendance, your child will do their best on the tests if they
· Get to bed early the night before to be well-rested on the day of the test
· Have a good breakfast on the morning of the test
· Be adequately hydrated and
· Stay positive!
Since we will be testing on Tuesday, we will not be having a Zoom Meet with remote learners on Tuesday, April 20th.
Remote Learners will continue testing on the following days:
Friday, April 23rd: Science, only 5th graders
Monday, April 26th: ELA, 4th-6th graders
Tuesday, April 27th: Math, 4th-6th graders
Homework: In Person Learners will not have homework due next week Monday, April 19th – Friday, April 23rd because of testing. Instead students should be working on their Great Lives Projects. They should be completing their final drafts, 3D projects, and visual presentations. The Final Draft is due Monday, May 3rd.
Sarahfina Fore's Class
Villa Montessori
2802 E Meadowbrook Ave. Phoenix, AZ 85016 Room 218 |
MAIN: (602) 955-2210
FAX: (602)957-4017 |