Message from the Director
Hello Kindians,
Eid Mubarak!
I hope everyone is having a restful and rejuvenating spring break and enjoying your Eid. As we return to school, let's carry forward that energy and enthusiasm into our classrooms. There's still much to accomplish before the end of the year, and we're excited to embark on this journey together.
Many of our students in grades 1 and up are anticipating with excitement the upcoming overnight trip to Timber-lee in Wisconsin! This adventure promises to be both educational and enjoyable for our students. It's a fantastic opportunity for them to bond, explore new places, and create lasting memories. I have to thank all the parents who volunteered to chaperone this trip to ensure a safe and enriching experience for all participants.
The coming few weeks are packed with events. We have events like a Bake Sale, Teacher Appreciation Week, Volunteers Appreciation Breakfast, Award Ceremonies, Graduation Ceremonies for KG, Third, and Eighth grades, IOWA testing for grades 3 and up, SAT and AP exams for high school students, outdoor and indoor field trips, and many many more. We want to come together as a community and bring this year to a great ending.
I want to remind parents to enroll their children in the Summer Camp. It is a mix of fun and learning. Children MUST stay connected to academics during the summer time to avoid the "Summer Loss": Check our website for enrollment information.
Again, let's encourage our students to stay focused, study diligently, and reach for their academic goals. We believe in their abilities and are here to support them every step of the way.
We thank you, parents and guardians, for your ongoing support and involvement in your child's education. Together, let's make these final weeks memorable and successful for our students.
Warm regards,
Hatem Elagha
Executive Director
Kindi Academy
Eid Mubarak!
I hope everyone is having a restful and rejuvenating spring break and enjoying your Eid. As we return to school, let's carry forward that energy and enthusiasm into our classrooms. There's still much to accomplish before the end of the year, and we're excited to embark on this journey together.
Many of our students in grades 1 and up are anticipating with excitement the upcoming overnight trip to Timber-lee in Wisconsin! This adventure promises to be both educational and enjoyable for our students. It's a fantastic opportunity for them to bond, explore new places, and create lasting memories. I have to thank all the parents who volunteered to chaperone this trip to ensure a safe and enriching experience for all participants.
The coming few weeks are packed with events. We have events like a Bake Sale, Teacher Appreciation Week, Volunteers Appreciation Breakfast, Award Ceremonies, Graduation Ceremonies for KG, Third, and Eighth grades, IOWA testing for grades 3 and up, SAT and AP exams for high school students, outdoor and indoor field trips, and many many more. We want to come together as a community and bring this year to a great ending.
I want to remind parents to enroll their children in the Summer Camp. It is a mix of fun and learning. Children MUST stay connected to academics during the summer time to avoid the "Summer Loss": Check our website for enrollment information.
Again, let's encourage our students to stay focused, study diligently, and reach for their academic goals. We believe in their abilities and are here to support them every step of the way.
We thank you, parents and guardians, for your ongoing support and involvement in your child's education. Together, let's make these final weeks memorable and successful for our students.
Warm regards,
Hatem Elagha
Executive Director
Kindi Academy
Message from the Dean
Greetings Eagles,
I hope everyone is enjoying their Spring Break! It’s hard to believe that once we get back, there will only be seven weeks of school left…seven weeks! It’s amazing to think of all that we can and will accomplish in those seven weeks, from field trips, classroom activities, projects, and more.
This month, our school-wide theme is the Power of Words. In the classrooms this month, you’ll hear your teachers mentioning “words matter” A LOT. That’s because it’s so true! I’ll personally be meeting with each class to discuss the impact of what our words mean and how the things we say can affect others in both positive and negative ways. Students should always be mindful about the things that they say, and know that they should think before they speak so that they don’t hurt others’ feelings. It is also important for them to know that what we say can have impacts so great they can inspire others to work hard, accomplish their goals, and inspire change throughout the world. We’ve seen this happen throughout history and I know there’s a lot of change makers sitting in our classrooms, who will one day change the world for the better!
As we approach the end of the year, one thing I constantly think about is our community. How we work to build each other up and help one another when needed. Before break, a student told me that they began to work harder because they saw their classmates working hard and succeeding. I’m sure you’ll find this hard to believe, but I was speechless for a moment! This is something every teacher dreams to hear…students going the extra mile to motivate each other to work harder, do better, and succeed! This is what it means to be an Eagle at Kindi…building each other up so everyone can SOAR!
A few other reminders from the Dean’s Office:
- ON-TIME ATTENDANCE! Remember to get to school on time (8:15 for Grades 4+, 8:30 for Grades 1-3, and 8:45 for the 3-6 Classes). Every minute makes a difference!
- UNIFORMS! Remember any student without uniforms starting Tuesday, April 16th will not be allowed to attend class until parents drop off a uniform to change into!
There’s so many great things going on at Kindi, none of it can be possible without the dedication of our teachers (the best around in my opinion!), caring and hardworking students, and the support of our parents and community members. I applaud you all for joining this wonderful school community and thank you for all that you do!
It’s STILL a GREAT DAY to be a Kindi Eagle!
Sevim Memisovski
Dean of Students
Kindi Academy
Eagles of the Month
MAR 2024
Eagle of the Month
Theme: Positivity and Optimism
Room 3
G1 Azra Kapucu
G2 Suhayb Atieh
G3 Maryam Umair
Room 4
G1 Hamza Ahmed, Hasan Ahmed
G2 Medha Inampudi
G3 Nadine Farhat
Room 7
1st Grade: Zanab Chaudri
2nd Grade: Ahmad Hattab
3rd Grade: Yusuf Afzal
Room 8
G 1 Melana Veraska
G 2 Jawaria Chaudhary
G 3 Abdullah Hoda
4th Grade
Noorah Iqbal
Taha Chaudri
Imran Zafar
5th Grade
Hamnah Farooqi
Yusuf Razvi-Rajek
Muhsin Saidov
6th Grade
Yusef Alsabbar
Aaliyah Mirza
Hanaan Uddin
7th Grade
Sarah Fawzi
Maryam Iqbal
8th Grade
Reem Adhami
9th Grade
Yusuf Ahmed
10th Grade
Rumaysa Mallick
As always, GO EAGLES!!!
Eagle of the Month
Theme: Positivity and Optimism
Room 3
G1 Azra Kapucu
G2 Suhayb Atieh
G3 Maryam Umair
Room 4
G1 Hamza Ahmed, Hasan Ahmed
G2 Medha Inampudi
G3 Nadine Farhat
Room 7
1st Grade: Zanab Chaudri
2nd Grade: Ahmad Hattab
3rd Grade: Yusuf Afzal
Room 8
G 1 Melana Veraska
G 2 Jawaria Chaudhary
G 3 Abdullah Hoda
4th Grade
Noorah Iqbal
Taha Chaudri
Imran Zafar
5th Grade
Hamnah Farooqi
Yusuf Razvi-Rajek
Muhsin Saidov
6th Grade
Yusef Alsabbar
Aaliyah Mirza
Hanaan Uddin
7th Grade
Sarah Fawzi
Maryam Iqbal
8th Grade
Reem Adhami
9th Grade
Yusuf Ahmed
10th Grade
Rumaysa Mallick
As always, GO EAGLES!!!
News from our 3-6 Classrooms
“When children come into contact with nature, they reveal their true strength.” ~Maria Montessori
We hope that everyone is enjoying their spring break! March started off colder than expected, but soon the warmth of spring will be upon us! With spring comes new life and change in our environment, so this is the time of the year where we introduce life cycles to the children. Teachers will continue to introduce various life cycles, including life cycles of butterflies, frogs, chickens, bees, turtles, ladybugs, and anything else the kids find interest in! As the world around us starts to bloom, we will take the children on a nature walk to show them the budding trees and flowers as well as any signs of new life. Children learn about growing plants and discuss how the germination of a seed works. Additionally, teachers will talk about the parts of a plant and how each part has an essential “job” to help the plant grow.
Our in-school field trip this month was a visit from RC Juggle Entertainment! They put on a fun show for the children filled with music, juggling, and balloons! Every child was able to take home a balloon animal, sword, or hat! In the month of April, the children will get a visit from Mary Macaroni, a children’s entertainer that has been visiting Kindi year after year! The kids always have a blast when Mary Macaroni visits!
Kindi recently hosted its first Book Fair, during which our 3-6 students were delighted to welcome two esteemed authors, Asiya Sabir and Shirin Shamsi! Both authors shared readings from their storybooks, and our young readers had the wonderful opportunity to purchase signed copies of their books. Additionally, Mr. Akust’s 7th-grade class has been visiting our 3-6 classrooms to engage in reading sessions with our students. It has been heartwarming to witness the positive interactions between the older and younger students, and the joyous enthusiasm our little ones display as they immerse themselves in each story.
As the end of the school year swiftly approaches, we are determined to make the most of the remaining time! Our students are diligently striving to achieve their end-of-year academic objectives. Meanwhile, our kindergarteners are gearing up to rehearse for their graduation program, slated for the end of May!
~The 3-6 Montessori Team
We hope that everyone is enjoying their spring break! March started off colder than expected, but soon the warmth of spring will be upon us! With spring comes new life and change in our environment, so this is the time of the year where we introduce life cycles to the children. Teachers will continue to introduce various life cycles, including life cycles of butterflies, frogs, chickens, bees, turtles, ladybugs, and anything else the kids find interest in! As the world around us starts to bloom, we will take the children on a nature walk to show them the budding trees and flowers as well as any signs of new life. Children learn about growing plants and discuss how the germination of a seed works. Additionally, teachers will talk about the parts of a plant and how each part has an essential “job” to help the plant grow.
Our in-school field trip this month was a visit from RC Juggle Entertainment! They put on a fun show for the children filled with music, juggling, and balloons! Every child was able to take home a balloon animal, sword, or hat! In the month of April, the children will get a visit from Mary Macaroni, a children’s entertainer that has been visiting Kindi year after year! The kids always have a blast when Mary Macaroni visits!
Kindi recently hosted its first Book Fair, during which our 3-6 students were delighted to welcome two esteemed authors, Asiya Sabir and Shirin Shamsi! Both authors shared readings from their storybooks, and our young readers had the wonderful opportunity to purchase signed copies of their books. Additionally, Mr. Akust’s 7th-grade class has been visiting our 3-6 classrooms to engage in reading sessions with our students. It has been heartwarming to witness the positive interactions between the older and younger students, and the joyous enthusiasm our little ones display as they immerse themselves in each story.
As the end of the school year swiftly approaches, we are determined to make the most of the remaining time! Our students are diligently striving to achieve their end-of-year academic objectives. Meanwhile, our kindergarteners are gearing up to rehearse for their graduation program, slated for the end of May!
~The 3-6 Montessori Team
Updates from Our 6-9 Classroom
"There is an urgent need to deepen our understanding of child development, using comparative studies, to improve and provide the best possible educational practices and environments for children"
Our students are exhibiting a more richly connected semantic memory network. This experience is of paramount importance for later cognitive and emotional outcomes. In this period of high brain plasticity children’s knowledge is acquired efficiently through statistical learning and it is significantly shaped by interactions with the environment.
Our first year students are diving into new concepts of word study (compound words, synonyms, antonyms.......) which will form a deeper understanding of language mechanics. Furthermore the reading and comprehension is embedded across the board. They are enjoying their descriptive writings with a purpose of polishing their penmanship, spellings and punctuation. New mathematical concepts of multiplication and division with 4 digits are establishing as solid understanding with our special Montessori equipment. Working with these tools will help develop their divergent thinking. In social sciences students are exhibiting their creativity with pleasure and understanding of geography, history and science. They are taking pride in their beautifully generated projects.
The second year students are demonstrating high quality work and striving towards the acquisition of knowledge. They are focusing on the ongoing lessons of building new vocabulary and using them correctly in the context. Editing and proofreading is an ongoing work, serving as scaffolding for future writings. Advanced math materials have been introduced for multiplication and division for their future mathematical mind development. Students are excited to work with Racks and Tubes (advanced division material). Working with unlike denominators in adding fractions with our special material is expanding their cognitive development. The social sciences projects provide them the opportunity to develop their research skills tied to reading comprehension.
Our third year students' creative thinking is greatly influenced by the "Montessori Way of Learning". The validity of their work quality is evident from the vigor and enthusiasm in all of their work. They are taking pride in their reading comprehension skills, editing and proofreading, grammar, and creative writing. The introduction of pre-algebra is being actively received by the students. The abstract practice of advanced multiplication and division is being practiced. Students are engaged in understanding the angles and their measurement. They are being introduced with the measurement units of the US Customary and Metric system. Measuring Volume with isometric cubes and understanding the units of 3D solids is paving the way for future studies. Projects of social sciences including Food Chains, systems of the human body and learning about US History timeline is providing them the fundamentals of the subject area. They have been introduced with the mechanism of the Three Branches of the Government.
It is important to understand that the quality of learning is more fundamental than the quantity. The more concepts are memorized with meaning, with experience, with involvement, with pleasure and personal understanding, the more they will be organized in memory in a flexible, diversified and enriched way,”
6-9 Team
Our students are exhibiting a more richly connected semantic memory network. This experience is of paramount importance for later cognitive and emotional outcomes. In this period of high brain plasticity children’s knowledge is acquired efficiently through statistical learning and it is significantly shaped by interactions with the environment.
Our first year students are diving into new concepts of word study (compound words, synonyms, antonyms.......) which will form a deeper understanding of language mechanics. Furthermore the reading and comprehension is embedded across the board. They are enjoying their descriptive writings with a purpose of polishing their penmanship, spellings and punctuation. New mathematical concepts of multiplication and division with 4 digits are establishing as solid understanding with our special Montessori equipment. Working with these tools will help develop their divergent thinking. In social sciences students are exhibiting their creativity with pleasure and understanding of geography, history and science. They are taking pride in their beautifully generated projects.
The second year students are demonstrating high quality work and striving towards the acquisition of knowledge. They are focusing on the ongoing lessons of building new vocabulary and using them correctly in the context. Editing and proofreading is an ongoing work, serving as scaffolding for future writings. Advanced math materials have been introduced for multiplication and division for their future mathematical mind development. Students are excited to work with Racks and Tubes (advanced division material). Working with unlike denominators in adding fractions with our special material is expanding their cognitive development. The social sciences projects provide them the opportunity to develop their research skills tied to reading comprehension.
Our third year students' creative thinking is greatly influenced by the "Montessori Way of Learning". The validity of their work quality is evident from the vigor and enthusiasm in all of their work. They are taking pride in their reading comprehension skills, editing and proofreading, grammar, and creative writing. The introduction of pre-algebra is being actively received by the students. The abstract practice of advanced multiplication and division is being practiced. Students are engaged in understanding the angles and their measurement. They are being introduced with the measurement units of the US Customary and Metric system. Measuring Volume with isometric cubes and understanding the units of 3D solids is paving the way for future studies. Projects of social sciences including Food Chains, systems of the human body and learning about US History timeline is providing them the fundamentals of the subject area. They have been introduced with the mechanism of the Three Branches of the Government.
It is important to understand that the quality of learning is more fundamental than the quantity. The more concepts are memorized with meaning, with experience, with involvement, with pleasure and personal understanding, the more they will be organized in memory in a flexible, diversified and enriched way,”
6-9 Team
Updates from 4th Grade
4th Grade - Ms. Victoria English
Students time traveled back in time with their novel studies to 1939 when Hitler was
invading England. Students learned about World War 2 and the struggles of a Clubfoot
girl -both which led to a series of changes and challenges. Throughout this book, we
explored the challenges and obstacles faced when dealing with a physical disability.
We explored the characters journey, the hardships, the unexpected frights of the war,
and a ray of hope. Student practiced writing a climax and the events prior to the climax
and the events afterwards leading up to the resolution of the story. We analyzed
character quotes and protagonist and antagonist characters. Students learned a song
to help them memorize the linking verbs to the tune of the classic Yankee Doodle
Dandy.
4th Grade - Ms. Victoria Math
This month in math students learned about the parts of a circle and even mastered the
circumference of a circle and the area of a circle with pi. The students were very
excited to learn the elements of 3.14. Students used protractors to measure different
types of angles like acute and obtuse. Students even measured missing measurements
of angles and had to add or subtract from a right angle or a straight line. They were so
engaged when they learned about coordinate pairs. The class made a bumble bee and
a lady bug with y axis coordinates and x axis coordinates.
4th Grade - Ms. Sameena English
The students have done an amazing job in Battle of the Books! They were creative, colorful and captivating in their responses and are moving in an interesting path toward a sparkling life ahead. Students prepared posters and wrote sentences that we enhancing their vocabulary, punctuation and spelling. The learners are going to read a lot more and write narratives to express their perceptions! They will write scripts and change the details to create something unique and inspirational! The students will portray their new characters and present in the class to compare and question the answers to analyze their responses!
4th Grade Social Studies/World Regions
We are still traveling around the world with stops in Europe, Russia, and Asia. We
learned about the unique holidays, religions, culture, geography, climate, government,
and history of these massive Countries. We learned about famous places and people.
We watched videos and saw many places in Asia that our families and students have
visited. We learned about a student's pilgrimage through Turkey and journeys in the
Dead Sea. I hope we learn more about the students’ culture with our next project.
Students time traveled back in time with their novel studies to 1939 when Hitler was
invading England. Students learned about World War 2 and the struggles of a Clubfoot
girl -both which led to a series of changes and challenges. Throughout this book, we
explored the challenges and obstacles faced when dealing with a physical disability.
We explored the characters journey, the hardships, the unexpected frights of the war,
and a ray of hope. Student practiced writing a climax and the events prior to the climax
and the events afterwards leading up to the resolution of the story. We analyzed
character quotes and protagonist and antagonist characters. Students learned a song
to help them memorize the linking verbs to the tune of the classic Yankee Doodle
Dandy.
4th Grade - Ms. Victoria Math
This month in math students learned about the parts of a circle and even mastered the
circumference of a circle and the area of a circle with pi. The students were very
excited to learn the elements of 3.14. Students used protractors to measure different
types of angles like acute and obtuse. Students even measured missing measurements
of angles and had to add or subtract from a right angle or a straight line. They were so
engaged when they learned about coordinate pairs. The class made a bumble bee and
a lady bug with y axis coordinates and x axis coordinates.
4th Grade - Ms. Sameena English
The students have done an amazing job in Battle of the Books! They were creative, colorful and captivating in their responses and are moving in an interesting path toward a sparkling life ahead. Students prepared posters and wrote sentences that we enhancing their vocabulary, punctuation and spelling. The learners are going to read a lot more and write narratives to express their perceptions! They will write scripts and change the details to create something unique and inspirational! The students will portray their new characters and present in the class to compare and question the answers to analyze their responses!
4th Grade Social Studies/World Regions
We are still traveling around the world with stops in Europe, Russia, and Asia. We
learned about the unique holidays, religions, culture, geography, climate, government,
and history of these massive Countries. We learned about famous places and people.
We watched videos and saw many places in Asia that our families and students have
visited. We learned about a student's pilgrimage through Turkey and journeys in the
Dead Sea. I hope we learn more about the students’ culture with our next project.
4th Grade Science
Students were all hands on deck when it came to learning about light switches and
electricity. We practice with circuits, batteries, and lightbulbs to see how light and
energy flow through each circuit. Students also learned about living and nonliving
things that depend on their ecosystem, habit, and niche to receive their basic needs to
survive.
Students were all hands on deck when it came to learning about light switches and
electricity. We practice with circuits, batteries, and lightbulbs to see how light and
energy flow through each circuit. Students also learned about living and nonliving
things that depend on their ecosystem, habit, and niche to receive their basic needs to
survive.
Happenings in the Science Room
5th grade: Learning about the universe. As part of this unit, they learned how ancient peoples created legends to explain phenomena they didn’t understand, how they also used stars to navigate, and to carry on with their daily lives.
Students created their own legends and mythological creatures and shared them with the class.
6th grade: Started with body systems, and the first one was the skeletal system. They had fun learning all about bones by playing computer games and practicing what they learned by labeling skeletons.
7th grade: Introduced to balancing equations and the mole. They had lots of practice and played comprehension games to make sure the concepts were understood.
8th grade: During March the 8th graders have working on understanding the complexities of the cellular respiration biochemical pathways.
9th grade: Have been reviewing the basic concepts of the four biological molecules before starting a more in depth study of organ systems.
Students created their own legends and mythological creatures and shared them with the class.
6th grade: Started with body systems, and the first one was the skeletal system. They had fun learning all about bones by playing computer games and practicing what they learned by labeling skeletons.
7th grade: Introduced to balancing equations and the mole. They had lots of practice and played comprehension games to make sure the concepts were understood.
8th grade: During March the 8th graders have working on understanding the complexities of the cellular respiration biochemical pathways.
9th grade: Have been reviewing the basic concepts of the four biological molecules before starting a more in depth study of organ systems.
10th grade- Chemistry
.
.
News from our Middle School
English
4th grade English Language Arts - Ms. Ashley
This month’s focus was on preparing students for the upcoming Iowa Skills Basic Test which will occur in May. Fourth grade students reviewed figurative language, continued learning new vocabulary, and practiced elongating our sentences by using adjectives and adverbs. Additionally, we commenced reading the novel The Tale of Despereaux and students were able to see the enactment while we enjoyed the animated movie. Finally, Ramadan was celebrated by our students when they created their own blue mosques using geometric shapes and their artistic skills. Students also wrote about their favorite Ramadaan traditions and family celebrations.
5th and 6th grade English Language Arts - Ms. Ashley
Fifth grade students have enjoyed reading the novel classic by E.B. White The Trumpet of the Swan, and we have had many class discussions about Louis the main characters’ disability, motivations and actions. Fifth grade students have also begun reviewing for the Iowa Basic Skills test by reviewing personification and other figurative language, vocabulary words and sentence structure. We celebrated our achievements by watching the Trumpet of The Swan animation and comparing the movie to the novel afterwards.
Sixth grade Language Arts students began reading the memoir Of Beetles and Angels which chronicles the journey of a boy and his family from civil war in East Africa to an affluent suburb of Chicago, and finally, to his full scholarship to Harvard University. Sixth grade students responded thoughtfully to each chapter from the memoir by practicing using text evidence directly from the novel. Additionally, we have continued to focus on sentence structure, grammar and vocabulary in preparation for the Iowa Basic Skills Test. I am extremely proud of how this class has also worked on displaying more positive and constructive behaviors inside the classroom! As a result, sixth grade students were able to enjoy a fun game of competitive kickball- - Ms. Ashley’s class vs. Mr. Auskt’s. It was a close game, even though Ms. Ashley’s class was down several students.
5th Grade English - Ms. Sameena
The studious students have been reading books and sharing their experiences about characters and their challenges to learn and apply the skills learned in the class! They have done an excellent job in The Battle of the Books as participants and made everyone proud and elated. The learners are going to read and write to enrich their vocabulary and presentation skills. The learners are going to learn root words and sentence structure to excel in writing skills. They will also read short passages and choose the correct option to apply logical reasoning and ameliorate their comprehension of the content! Furthermore, they will learn to write narrative essays and add sparkle to their writing by describing the details precisely.
6th Grade English - Mr. Aukst
Students completed the novel, Refugee, and chapter assignments. Students completed an assessment
and have been working on a project based on the novel. Each week, we worked on vocabulary, root
words, and analogy assignments and tests.
6th Grade English - Ms. Sameena
The wonderful students have been reading and writing a lot to express themselves beautifully! They will read and write narratives to enhance their writing skills and reflect on their language with precision. The learners are going to learn how to use root words and expand their vocabulary to highlight their skills. Furthermore, they will express themselves by using descriptive language to describe their perceptions and present with enthusiasm! They will enrich their vocabulary by using blend of words and sentence structure to empower themselves.Figurative language and creativity in their writing will add color to their reflections and boost their confidence !
7th Grade English - Mr. Aukst
Students completed the novel, Night, and took an assessment. They also completed a genocide research paper on one of the major genocides in the last century. Each week, we worked on vocabulary, root words, and analogy assignments and tests.
4th Grade Creative Expression - Debate - Ms. Melissa
The 4th graders did a wonderful job with their first speeches! They composed an “introduction/about me” speech where they were graded on the public speaking basics such as eye contact, voice volume and clarity. When we return from break, we will begin our unit on debating! This includes introducing the concept and having students prepare to do a “Lincoln-Douglas” style debate on school-related topics.
8th Grade English - Ms. Melissa
In 8th grade, we are well into our latest novel, The Book Thief by Marcus Zusak. They have been practicing utilizing different literary devices such as point of view, mood, and style/tone. They also completed our unit on analogies with a final assessment. We will begin our new grammar unit upon our return from break, beginning with a review of foundational concepts.
9th Grade Honors English - Ms. Melissa
In 9th grade, we are continuing our novel unit on To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee. The class has been focusing on how the setting and narrator affect the telling of the story. Students are also continuing to study vocabulary through the Sadlier program. We will be implementing SAT practice with vocabulary and reading comprehension when we return from break.
10th Grade Honors American Literature - Ms. Melissa
In 10th grade, students have recently finished reading and studying The Great Gatsby. For the culminating project, students did a wonderful job creating a visual map of the novel’s New York City setting. Our next literary unit will center on the play “Death of a Salesman” by Arthur Miller. In the meantime, students are completing a mini-unit on selected short stories that will be discussed after break.
4th grade English Language Arts - Ms. Ashley
This month’s focus was on preparing students for the upcoming Iowa Skills Basic Test which will occur in May. Fourth grade students reviewed figurative language, continued learning new vocabulary, and practiced elongating our sentences by using adjectives and adverbs. Additionally, we commenced reading the novel The Tale of Despereaux and students were able to see the enactment while we enjoyed the animated movie. Finally, Ramadan was celebrated by our students when they created their own blue mosques using geometric shapes and their artistic skills. Students also wrote about their favorite Ramadaan traditions and family celebrations.
5th and 6th grade English Language Arts - Ms. Ashley
Fifth grade students have enjoyed reading the novel classic by E.B. White The Trumpet of the Swan, and we have had many class discussions about Louis the main characters’ disability, motivations and actions. Fifth grade students have also begun reviewing for the Iowa Basic Skills test by reviewing personification and other figurative language, vocabulary words and sentence structure. We celebrated our achievements by watching the Trumpet of The Swan animation and comparing the movie to the novel afterwards.
Sixth grade Language Arts students began reading the memoir Of Beetles and Angels which chronicles the journey of a boy and his family from civil war in East Africa to an affluent suburb of Chicago, and finally, to his full scholarship to Harvard University. Sixth grade students responded thoughtfully to each chapter from the memoir by practicing using text evidence directly from the novel. Additionally, we have continued to focus on sentence structure, grammar and vocabulary in preparation for the Iowa Basic Skills Test. I am extremely proud of how this class has also worked on displaying more positive and constructive behaviors inside the classroom! As a result, sixth grade students were able to enjoy a fun game of competitive kickball- - Ms. Ashley’s class vs. Mr. Auskt’s. It was a close game, even though Ms. Ashley’s class was down several students.
5th Grade English - Ms. Sameena
The studious students have been reading books and sharing their experiences about characters and their challenges to learn and apply the skills learned in the class! They have done an excellent job in The Battle of the Books as participants and made everyone proud and elated. The learners are going to read and write to enrich their vocabulary and presentation skills. The learners are going to learn root words and sentence structure to excel in writing skills. They will also read short passages and choose the correct option to apply logical reasoning and ameliorate their comprehension of the content! Furthermore, they will learn to write narrative essays and add sparkle to their writing by describing the details precisely.
6th Grade English - Mr. Aukst
Students completed the novel, Refugee, and chapter assignments. Students completed an assessment
and have been working on a project based on the novel. Each week, we worked on vocabulary, root
words, and analogy assignments and tests.
6th Grade English - Ms. Sameena
The wonderful students have been reading and writing a lot to express themselves beautifully! They will read and write narratives to enhance their writing skills and reflect on their language with precision. The learners are going to learn how to use root words and expand their vocabulary to highlight their skills. Furthermore, they will express themselves by using descriptive language to describe their perceptions and present with enthusiasm! They will enrich their vocabulary by using blend of words and sentence structure to empower themselves.Figurative language and creativity in their writing will add color to their reflections and boost their confidence !
7th Grade English - Mr. Aukst
Students completed the novel, Night, and took an assessment. They also completed a genocide research paper on one of the major genocides in the last century. Each week, we worked on vocabulary, root words, and analogy assignments and tests.
4th Grade Creative Expression - Debate - Ms. Melissa
The 4th graders did a wonderful job with their first speeches! They composed an “introduction/about me” speech where they were graded on the public speaking basics such as eye contact, voice volume and clarity. When we return from break, we will begin our unit on debating! This includes introducing the concept and having students prepare to do a “Lincoln-Douglas” style debate on school-related topics.
8th Grade English - Ms. Melissa
In 8th grade, we are well into our latest novel, The Book Thief by Marcus Zusak. They have been practicing utilizing different literary devices such as point of view, mood, and style/tone. They also completed our unit on analogies with a final assessment. We will begin our new grammar unit upon our return from break, beginning with a review of foundational concepts.
9th Grade Honors English - Ms. Melissa
In 9th grade, we are continuing our novel unit on To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee. The class has been focusing on how the setting and narrator affect the telling of the story. Students are also continuing to study vocabulary through the Sadlier program. We will be implementing SAT practice with vocabulary and reading comprehension when we return from break.
10th Grade Honors American Literature - Ms. Melissa
In 10th grade, students have recently finished reading and studying The Great Gatsby. For the culminating project, students did a wonderful job creating a visual map of the novel’s New York City setting. Our next literary unit will center on the play “Death of a Salesman” by Arthur Miller. In the meantime, students are completing a mini-unit on selected short stories that will be discussed after break.
Updates From Social Studies
5th Grade Ancient World History - Mr. Aukst
We concluded the last sections on Ancient Greece. It included the Peloponnesian Wars and Alexander
the Great. In addition, we completed the introduction to the Roman Republic. It included Romanian
origin, Roman society, and Roman government. We have gone through presentations, completed in-
depth worksheets, watched educational videos, and had some great discussions.
6th Grade World Geography - Mr. Aukst
We completed East Asia physical geography, history, economy, and cultural influences. In addition,
students completed and presented their project on a Middle East or South Asia country and their
personal connection and history with that country. Students worked on maps, worksheets, and
completed a small project on the physical features of East Asia.
7th Grade US History
7th Graders have just completed their study of the Roaring Twenties and Great Depression. For the 1920s, students were placed into groups to research specific topics of the 1920s, including pop culture, clashes between Religion and Science (Scopes Trial), labor unrest, and politics. They then compiled their research into Google Slides or Canva presentations to present their findings to the class. We then covered the Great Depression, learning about the causes and the responses to the economic depression the country was facing. After learning about the New Deal Programs, students made “Alphabet Soup” that highlighted the different New Deal Agencies created by FDR. When we return from break, we’ll be focusing in on World War II and the Cold War. Students are also in the process of researching a topic from the course and will be putting together a Documentary Film about it!
8th Grade Social Studies (World History)
In Social Studies, We are continuing our journey across world history and just finished our unit on World War I. The class did great on their project for this unit, in which they created propaganda posters from a European country’s perspective. It is always wonderful to see their creativity! Students will complete their next DBQ essay on this topic when we return from break. Our next chapter focuses on World War II, which will include coverage of the Holocaust and aftermath of the conflict.
We concluded the last sections on Ancient Greece. It included the Peloponnesian Wars and Alexander
the Great. In addition, we completed the introduction to the Roman Republic. It included Romanian
origin, Roman society, and Roman government. We have gone through presentations, completed in-
depth worksheets, watched educational videos, and had some great discussions.
6th Grade World Geography - Mr. Aukst
We completed East Asia physical geography, history, economy, and cultural influences. In addition,
students completed and presented their project on a Middle East or South Asia country and their
personal connection and history with that country. Students worked on maps, worksheets, and
completed a small project on the physical features of East Asia.
7th Grade US History
7th Graders have just completed their study of the Roaring Twenties and Great Depression. For the 1920s, students were placed into groups to research specific topics of the 1920s, including pop culture, clashes between Religion and Science (Scopes Trial), labor unrest, and politics. They then compiled their research into Google Slides or Canva presentations to present their findings to the class. We then covered the Great Depression, learning about the causes and the responses to the economic depression the country was facing. After learning about the New Deal Programs, students made “Alphabet Soup” that highlighted the different New Deal Agencies created by FDR. When we return from break, we’ll be focusing in on World War II and the Cold War. Students are also in the process of researching a topic from the course and will be putting together a Documentary Film about it!
8th Grade Social Studies (World History)
In Social Studies, We are continuing our journey across world history and just finished our unit on World War I. The class did great on their project for this unit, in which they created propaganda posters from a European country’s perspective. It is always wonderful to see their creativity! Students will complete their next DBQ essay on this topic when we return from break. Our next chapter focuses on World War II, which will include coverage of the Holocaust and aftermath of the conflict.
AP US History
In APUSH, we finished our final units of the year. We learned about Nixon and the Watergate Scandal, the presidency of Ford and Carter, before dividing the class into groups to put together presentations about the 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s. Students were tasked with compiling the highlights of those decades along with terms from the course that students need to know. We are now heading into reviewing for the AP Exam which will be on Friday, May 10th!
AP Human Geography
We finished our final unit in AP HUG which dealt with Cities and Urban Land Use. Students created their own city model based on one of the models we discussed in class. We also spent a lot of time discussing downtown areas and the theories behind their creation, as well as watching a few videos on sprawl, focusing on Atlanta for that case study. We are now heading into reviewing for the AP Exam which will be on Tuesday, May 7th
In APUSH, we finished our final units of the year. We learned about Nixon and the Watergate Scandal, the presidency of Ford and Carter, before dividing the class into groups to put together presentations about the 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s. Students were tasked with compiling the highlights of those decades along with terms from the course that students need to know. We are now heading into reviewing for the AP Exam which will be on Friday, May 10th!
AP Human Geography
We finished our final unit in AP HUG which dealt with Cities and Urban Land Use. Students created their own city model based on one of the models we discussed in class. We also spent a lot of time discussing downtown areas and the theories behind their creation, as well as watching a few videos on sprawl, focusing on Atlanta for that case study. We are now heading into reviewing for the AP Exam which will be on Tuesday, May 7th
Updates from PE
P. E continues to be what students look forward to blow off some steam after working so hard in their other classes. After a mental challenge, it’s great to see students have fun and embrace the physical challenge P.E offers. Cooperative activities encouraging students to work as a team, as well as independent activities helping students become more self reliant . Hockey has been the recent sport and everyone is having a blast!
Updates from Art
As we welcome the new quarter, our upper -class rotation is as follows: 6th graders
have started home economics, which consist of Sewing, Budgeting, Etiquette and
Cooking. The week prior to spring break, we focused on three basic
stitches and knots. Upon our return we will learn to sew on buttons! Eighth grade students are learning the basic 7 elements of art as well as getting to know famous artists and their
accomplishments through Art History. Montessori 3-6 will be working on fun crafts “All about bugs” and lastly, our Montessori 6-9 will continue learning the dynamics of drawing, understanding depth and value while incorporating these skills in their art. Stay tuned to the next newsletter for
updated pictures!
have started home economics, which consist of Sewing, Budgeting, Etiquette and
Cooking. The week prior to spring break, we focused on three basic
stitches and knots. Upon our return we will learn to sew on buttons! Eighth grade students are learning the basic 7 elements of art as well as getting to know famous artists and their
accomplishments through Art History. Montessori 3-6 will be working on fun crafts “All about bugs” and lastly, our Montessori 6-9 will continue learning the dynamics of drawing, understanding depth and value while incorporating these skills in their art. Stay tuned to the next newsletter for
updated pictures!
Updates from our spanish classroom
Spanish with Maestra Maria:
¡Hola Familias!
I hope you're all enjoying quality family time during Spring Break and the end of Ramadan. I'd like to update you on all that we've been working on in Spanish class throughout March.
In the 3-6 program, we've taken advantage of the beginning of spring to revisit the seasons, explore weather vocabulary, and start learning spring-related vocabulary through a memory game. Additionally, we've covered topics such as family and farm animals.
First-grade students have been working on the "Uncle Ramon's Farm" project. We've practiced farm vocabulary and the phrase "Yo Tengo" (I have). At the end of the project, we learned Uncle Ramon's song, and each child took home a mini-book of the song. Also, with the arrival of spring, the children created a character named "Floppsy the Rabbit" and wrote a story about it. They then drew the rabbit and its sister and decorated the classroom with their drawings.
Second and third-grade students began the month by creating stories with "The Story Box," where they selected cards and crafted stories practicing animal vocabulary, colors, places of residence, and character preferences. Then, we started the "Doctors and Patients" unit, where we worked on vocabulary related to parts of the body. At the end of the project, the children participated in a speaking activity where some were doctors and others were patients. The doctors had to ask, "Does your head hurt?" to discover who had a headache. It was a lot of fun, and the children loved it.
Fourth-grade students finished Unit 3 in March and took the corresponding test. Currently, we're in the final part of Unit 4, where we've been working on vocabulary related to school and its different areas. We've also reviewed the conjugation of the verb "ir" (to go), for example, "Tú vas a la clase de español" (You go to Spanish class). Additionally, they've learned a series of basic verbs from the first conjugation that they've been using with the verb "ir," for example, "Yo voy a estudiar" (I'm going to study). In the next class, they'll begin learning to conjugate these verbs, for example, "Yo estudio" (I study).
Fifth-grade students completed Unit 7 and took the corresponding exam. Currently, we're halfway through Unit 8, which focuses on different time concepts, such as units of time measurement, the expression "How long are you going to...?", "How many hours are in a day?", "When are you going to music class?" and vocabulary related to different parts of the day. In the next class, they'll start learning to tell time in Spanish.
¡Hasta pronto familias!
Maestra María
Spanish with Maestra Alicia:
5th Grade
Throughout the month of March, our students embarked on an exciting journey with Unit 9 titled "Mis clases favoritas" (My favorite classes). In this unit, they immersed themselves in various school subjects, including English, Mathematics, Physical Education, and more. Through engaging activities and discussions, they've expanded their vocabulary and now confidently express their preferences for favorite and least favorite classes in Spanish.
Moreover, our fifth graders have been delving into the basics of verb conjugation, a fundamental aspect of mastering Spanish. They've begun with a selection of -er and -ir verbs, such as "aprender" (to learn), "comprender" (to understand), "leer" (to read), and "escribir" (to write). Utilizing the Conjuguemos program, they've been actively practicing and reinforcing their conjugation skills, allowing them to grasp these essential concepts effectively.
6th Grade
Our students have been diving deep into Unit 2, Lesson 1, where they've been mastering the grammatical concept of the verb "tener" (to have). They've learned how to conjugate this verb and use it to express possession. Now they can talk about what classes they have and at what time they have them, for example Yo tengo la clase de espanol a las diez de la mañana (I have Spanish class at 10:00am).
In addition to "tener," students have also been introduced to the structure "tener que + infinitive." This structure is used to express obligation or necessity. For example, "Tengo que estudiar" means "I have to study."
Furthermore, students have been learning expressions of frequency such as "siempre" (always), "nunca" (never), and "algunas veces" (sometimes). They can now confidently talk about how often they do certain activities.
7th/8th Grade
This month, students have been diving into some interesting topics and learning new grammar concepts. One of the key areas of focus has been the verb "doler," which is used to express pain or discomfort. Students have been practicing using this verb to make excuses, such as "No puedo caminar porque me duele el pie" (I can't walk because my foot hurts).
Additionally, students have been learning how to talk about staying healthy using the preterite tense of -ar verbs, as well as the preterite tense of -car, -gar, -zar verbs. They have been using these new skills to discuss their daily routines, exercise habits, and healthy eating habits. For example, “Yo nade en el mar” (I swam in the sea).
We are incredibly proud of the progress that our students have made this month. They have shown a great deal of enthusiasm and dedication to learning Spanish, and we are excited to see their skills continue to grow.
9th/10th Grade
In the past few weeks, students have successfully completed the last topic of Unit 2, Lesson 2. This topic focused on expressing what they and others are currently doing or intend to do using the present progressive tense. Students have shown great enthusiasm and understanding of this grammatical concept, which is essential for fluent communication in Spanish.
Currently, we have transitioned into Unit 3, Lesson 1, titled "¿Cómo me queda?" (How does it fit?) This unit centers around clothing items, colors, design and fit, types of stores, and shopping-related vocabulary. Students are learning to describe clothing, express preferences, and discuss shopping experiences in Spanish. This unit not only enhances their language skills but also provides cultural insights into shopping habits in Spanish-speaking countries.
Throughout these lessons, students have been actively engaged in various activities, including group discussions, role plays, and vocabulary games, to reinforce their learning.
Spanish with Maestra Ashley:
Fourth grade Spanish language learners have been learning vocabulary for shapes, colors and numbers in accordance with the curriculum. Each student has also been able to identify basic shapes and color accurately! Furthermore, our pronunciation is continuously improving as we continue to practice. Because our class meets three times a week for 35 minutes it is important that students take their Spanish notebooks home to study and practice. Finally, parents please support your child by downloading Duolingo, if they have not already. Thank you for your support
Updates from our Arabic Room
Ramadan Mubarak our KINDI families,
May Allah accept your fasting and praying.
Islamic studies Department
From the Desk of Ms. Khadijah Jabri.
6-9 Islamic Studies and Quran:
In the 6-9 classes, students have been learning about Ramadan, learning about its significance and practices. We also talked about the significance of the Night of Decree (Laylat al-Qadr) in Ramadan. Students learned about the virtues and blessings associated with this night and discussed strategies to make the most of its blessings, including prayers, supplications, and acts of charity. In addition, the classes have explored the traditions and rituals associated with Eid, gaining insights into the actions of Prophet Muhammad and reflecting on the expectations for muslims during this blessed day. The kids also enjoyed listening and learning about the battle of Badr, an important event in Islamic history that holds a lot of important and profound lessons for our little friends. Alongside this, the students have dedicated time to revising the Surahs from the Quran they've already learned and the surahs they are currently learning.
6-9 Arabic:
In Arabic class, our first graders have been diligently working on their writing skills, mastering the reading of new words with stretching letters and vowels, and expanding their vocabulary. Meanwhile, our second grade students thoroughly explored the concept of family, and worked on a very fun family tree project that ignited their enthusiasm and creativity. They also learned vocabulary related to Ramadan and gained insights into its cultural significance. Our third graders have been actively participating in Ramadan lessons, acquiring new vocabulary and reinforcing previously learned material. It's been a busy and enriching time for our students as they deepen their understanding of language and culture in Arabic class.
Pre-3 Arabic and Religion:
My little pre-3 friends have been continuing the journey of learning the Arabic alphabet. Learning new vocabulary for each letter. We also mastered our days of the week song that we continue to sing everyday before we start our lesson. They have been also working hard in learning the song for the colors in Arabic, with the introduction of our new song for the shapes in Arabic. It’s never a dull moment with my little busy bees.
As for religion studies, we have talked about Ramadan and Eid, and my friends enjoyed coloring their lanterns and making their Eid cards for their families.
Ms. Khadijah Jabri.
From the desk of Ms. Lina Al-Tebi
4th,5th Grade Arabic
As we reflect on the past month, we are pleased to share with you some highlights from our school's focus on the month of Ramadan. Throughout the month, our students had the opportunity to learn about the significance of Ramadan in the Islamic faith and explore traditions associated with this holy month.
Thank you for your ongoing support and participation in our school community.
Pre. 4 -KG
We are thrilled to share with you the wonderful activities and learning experiences. Our preschool and kindergarten (KG) students have been engaged in as they prepare for the holy month of Ramadan. We have meaningful activities that celebrate the spirit of Ramadan while fostering a sense of joy, curiosity, and cultural appreciation among our young learners.
May Allah accept your fasting and praying.
Islamic studies Department
From the Desk of Ms. Khadijah Jabri.
6-9 Islamic Studies and Quran:
In the 6-9 classes, students have been learning about Ramadan, learning about its significance and practices. We also talked about the significance of the Night of Decree (Laylat al-Qadr) in Ramadan. Students learned about the virtues and blessings associated with this night and discussed strategies to make the most of its blessings, including prayers, supplications, and acts of charity. In addition, the classes have explored the traditions and rituals associated with Eid, gaining insights into the actions of Prophet Muhammad and reflecting on the expectations for muslims during this blessed day. The kids also enjoyed listening and learning about the battle of Badr, an important event in Islamic history that holds a lot of important and profound lessons for our little friends. Alongside this, the students have dedicated time to revising the Surahs from the Quran they've already learned and the surahs they are currently learning.
6-9 Arabic:
In Arabic class, our first graders have been diligently working on their writing skills, mastering the reading of new words with stretching letters and vowels, and expanding their vocabulary. Meanwhile, our second grade students thoroughly explored the concept of family, and worked on a very fun family tree project that ignited their enthusiasm and creativity. They also learned vocabulary related to Ramadan and gained insights into its cultural significance. Our third graders have been actively participating in Ramadan lessons, acquiring new vocabulary and reinforcing previously learned material. It's been a busy and enriching time for our students as they deepen their understanding of language and culture in Arabic class.
Pre-3 Arabic and Religion:
My little pre-3 friends have been continuing the journey of learning the Arabic alphabet. Learning new vocabulary for each letter. We also mastered our days of the week song that we continue to sing everyday before we start our lesson. They have been also working hard in learning the song for the colors in Arabic, with the introduction of our new song for the shapes in Arabic. It’s never a dull moment with my little busy bees.
As for religion studies, we have talked about Ramadan and Eid, and my friends enjoyed coloring their lanterns and making their Eid cards for their families.
Ms. Khadijah Jabri.
From the desk of Ms. Lina Al-Tebi
4th,5th Grade Arabic
As we reflect on the past month, we are pleased to share with you some highlights from our school's focus on the month of Ramadan. Throughout the month, our students had the opportunity to learn about the significance of Ramadan in the Islamic faith and explore traditions associated with this holy month.
- Learning About Ramadan:
- Our students delved into the teachings and practices of Ramadan, gaining a deeper understanding of its spiritual significance and importance for Muslims around the world.
- Through classroom discussions, readings, and multimedia presentations, students learned the role of fasting during Ramadan.
- Exploring Ramadan Traditions:
- Students had the chance to explore the traditions observed during Ramadan, including the daily fasting from dawn to sunset, the evening prayers (Taraweeh), and the breaking of the fast (Iftar) with family and friends.
- They learned about the importance of charity (Zakat) and community service during Ramadan, emphasizing the spirit of generosity and compassion.
- Special Ramadan Foods:
- One of the highlights of our exploration of Ramadan was learning about the special foods enjoyed during this month.
- Students had the opportunity to sample traditional Ramadan dishes such as dates, samosas, fruit juices, and various sweets that are commonly prepared for Iftar and Suhoor (pre-dawn meal).
- Cultural Appreciation and Inclusivity:
- Our school community embraced the diversity of cultures and traditions represented among our students, fostering an inclusive environment where everyone felt valued and respected.
- Through multicultural activities and discussions, students celebrated the richness of their heritage and gained a greater appreciation for the cultural diversity within our school community.
- Reflection and Gratitude:
- As Ramadan came to a close, students reflected on their experiences and expressed gratitude for the blessings of this sacred month.
- They shared reflections on the importance of empathy, gratitude, and self-discipline, which are core values emphasized during Ramadan.
Thank you for your ongoing support and participation in our school community.
Pre. 4 -KG
We are thrilled to share with you the wonderful activities and learning experiences. Our preschool and kindergarten (KG) students have been engaged in as they prepare for the holy month of Ramadan. We have meaningful activities that celebrate the spirit of Ramadan while fostering a sense of joy, curiosity, and cultural appreciation among our young learners.
- Preparing for Ramadan:
- Our preschool and KG students have been eagerly preparing for the arrival of Ramadan by
- engaging in discussions and activities centered around the significance of this special month in the Islamic calendar.
- Through age-appropriate lessons and stories, students have learned the importance of fasting, prayer, charity, and reflection during Ramadan.
- Decorating for Ramadan:
- To create a festive atmosphere and instill a sense of excitement, our students have enjoyed coloring and crafting various Ramadan decorations.
- From crescent moons and stars to lanterns and colorful banners, our classrooms and hallways have been adorned with beautiful handmade decorations created by our talented young artists.
- Exploring Traditional Ramadan Foods:
- As part of our multicultural curriculum, students have had the opportunity to learn about traditional foods that are special during Ramadan.
- Students have explored the special dishes such as dates, samosas, fruit juices, and sweets that are commonly enjoyed during Iftar (breaking of the fast).
- Becoming Secret Students:
- Our KG students have embraced the role of "secret students" as they strive to embody the values of kindness, generosity, and empathy during Ramadan.
- Through acts of kindness and random acts of giving, students have spread joy and positivity throughout our school community, making each other feel valued and special.
- Continued Academic Engagement:
- Despite the festive atmosphere, our preschool and KG students have continued to work diligently on their academic skills and developmental milestones.
- From literacy and numeracy activities to sensory play and creative expression, our students are actively engaged in meaningful learning experiences tailored to their developmental needs and interests.