Frequently Asked Questions:
What should I send with my child every morning?

• Backpack, appropriate clothing for the weather, snack, water bottle and any homework that is due.  

Can I send in a birthday treat for my child's birthday celebration?  

• We love celebrating children.  Each teacher may handle birthdays differently.  Please check with your teacher before sending in snacks.  We are an allergy aware school, not allergy free.  If your child has allergies that may prevent them from having special treats, you may consider sending in something they can have on those days.  

My child talks about so-and-so all the time, how can I access their information for a playdate?

• Make sure to opt in to the Parent Directory so that you can find information for your child's friends as I am not able to coordinate that information between families.  The Parent Directory is voluntary so you may not see the child you are looking for because they've chosen to opt out and not be contacted for playdates/parties.  Please keep up with the directory you are given!  I will not be able to provide copies all year long.  

What are they doing all day?

• The Upper Elementary Montessori classroom is a project-based, hands-on, independent environment that invites your child to explore, learn and grow.  Many of the materials on the shelves are concrete, and as your child moves into more abstract work, you will see more paperwork come home every week.   I present lessons to your child in whole group, smaller group and even 1:1 format.  They have priority works that need to be completed every week.  

How does snack work during the morning?

• The students are busy or engaged in work cycle in the morning.  Snack will be available while they are working, and as they listen to their bodies and the needs they have in regards to snack and water.  

How many children do we have in our class?

• Most classes have 28 students.  For an accurate count, please contact your child's teacher.

​Do we have homework?

• Homework:  Homework in a Montessori program is considered to focus on the 'process', not the 'product', which is an important cornerstone of our philosophy.  Thus, we view the purpose of homework as a process which offers the child an opportunity to develop his or her skills of responsibility and independence. 
• Two ways in which homework can do this is by encouraging the child to independently remember to complete the homework, as well as to remember to have it completed and turned in on time.
• According to our philosophy, homework is not meant as an opportunity to teach academic skills, as children in Montessori classrooms work very hard in school each day.   

This year, homework will consist of 4 items:

1. Weekly spelling/vocabulary:  Spelling is done using a program called Vocabulary Workshop.  Each week, your students will be writing their vocabulary words, and the definition for each work on a spelling sheet.  This will go home every week.  Their homework is to study and learn the words and definitions.  Having them use their works in a sentence of their own would be ideal!  Spelling/vocabulary test days are different for each teacher.  Be sure to check with your child's teacher to know when to expect Spelling/Vocabulary sheets to come home, and what day the test will be given.  If your student goes to www.quizlet.com, and puts in Vocabulary Workshop (and then their specific level) the list will be available, as well as some really fun ways to study.  Spelling will begin in September.  
2. One book report project per quarter:  Instructions for the book report will be sent home, and will also be on our resource page.
3. 10 learning targets per week in the ALEKS online math program:  The students will get their ALEKS passwords up and running the first few weeks of school.  ALEKS homework will begin after we give them their passwords and practice logging in at school.  
4. 30 minutes of reading daily:  At the beginning of each month, students will receive a monthly reading log.  This is for them to track their reading at home.  On the back of the log are some questions for them to answer regarding what they have read.  The log is due back at the end of the month, and requires your signature verifying that the reading has been done.  We are sending home a parent contract with some guidelines and suggestions, and ask that you read the contract and return the bottom portion. 

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