Message from the Executive Director
Hello Kindians,
I hope this message finds you well-rested and rejuvenated after a wonderful spring break and a joyous Eid celebration! As we return to school, let’s channel that renewed energy into making these final weeks of the academic year productive, inspiring, and memorable. There’s still so much to achieve, and we’re excited to finish strong—together.
Before proceeding, I have to express my utmost pride of the Kindi community for the strong showing during our Iftar/Dinner in Ramadan. The gathering was an amazing opportunity for all of us to come together and break bread outside the walls of the school while enjoying a lovely environment. This only shows the strength of our community and the strong attachment to our school.
The next few weeks are brimming with exciting opportunities for our students:
Finally, Let’s encourage our students to stay focused, aim high, and finish the year with pride. We’re here to support them every step of the way!
I can’t leave today without thanking our parents and guardians for your continuous partnership in your child’s education. Together, let’s make these last weeks truly special for our students.
Warm regards,
Hatem Elagha
Executive Director
Kindi Academy
I hope this message finds you well-rested and rejuvenated after a wonderful spring break and a joyous Eid celebration! As we return to school, let’s channel that renewed energy into making these final weeks of the academic year productive, inspiring, and memorable. There’s still so much to achieve, and we’re excited to finish strong—together.
Before proceeding, I have to express my utmost pride of the Kindi community for the strong showing during our Iftar/Dinner in Ramadan. The gathering was an amazing opportunity for all of us to come together and break bread outside the walls of the school while enjoying a lovely environment. This only shows the strength of our community and the strong attachment to our school.
The next few weeks are brimming with exciting opportunities for our students:
- Field Trips such as the outdoor Timber-lee Overnight Trip for grades 4-12 and White Pines Ranch for grades 1-3: Our students are eagerly looking forward to those enriching adventures. Those trips are part of Kindi’s outdoor learning. We are confident that those adventures will leave our students with lasting memories and unforgettable moments. We also have both outdoor and indoor field trips lined up for fun and learning to cater to all students in the school.
- Special Events: We have many great community events coming up such as the Bake Sale, Teachers Appreciation Week, Award Ceremonies, and Graduations (KG, 3rd, 8th Grade, High School). There’s always something for everyone.
- Assessments: Students in Grades 3+ will take the IOWA tests, while high schoolers tackle SATs and AP exams.
Finally, Let’s encourage our students to stay focused, aim high, and finish the year with pride. We’re here to support them every step of the way!
I can’t leave today without thanking our parents and guardians for your continuous partnership in your child’s education. Together, let’s make these last weeks truly special for our students.
Warm regards,
Hatem Elagha
Executive Director
Kindi Academy
Message from the Dean
Greetings Kindi Eagles,
I can’t believe we’re already nearing the end of the school year. Time has flown by pretty FAST! As we reflect on all the growth and learning that has taken place, we’re also excited about the fun events still to come.
One of those events is our Career Fair happening on Thursday, April 24th from 9:30am to 12:30pm. We are so grateful to the parents who volunteered to present and share their professional experiences with our students. Our students gain so much when they hear real stories and insights from the people who live and work in these fields every day.
We also want to share that the next few weeks will be a busy time for testing across all grade levels. Students will be taking IOWA Assessments, AP Exams, and finals. Our teachers have been working hard to prepare students through review sessions and classroom activities that help build their confidence.
As parents, your support makes a big difference during this time. Here are a few simple ways you can help:
We are excited to see them finish the year strong. We got this!
Also, a quick shoutout to our Yearbook and Digital Media class. They’ve been working super hard on this year’s yearbook. They’ve captured so many special moments, big and small, and we can’t wait for everyone to see the memories they’ve brought to life on the pages.
Thank you again for all your support this year. Let’s make these last few weeks count.
As Always, Go Eagles!
Ahed Abufeelat
Dean of Students
I can’t believe we’re already nearing the end of the school year. Time has flown by pretty FAST! As we reflect on all the growth and learning that has taken place, we’re also excited about the fun events still to come.
One of those events is our Career Fair happening on Thursday, April 24th from 9:30am to 12:30pm. We are so grateful to the parents who volunteered to present and share their professional experiences with our students. Our students gain so much when they hear real stories and insights from the people who live and work in these fields every day.
We also want to share that the next few weeks will be a busy time for testing across all grade levels. Students will be taking IOWA Assessments, AP Exams, and finals. Our teachers have been working hard to prepare students through review sessions and classroom activities that help build their confidence.
As parents, your support makes a big difference during this time. Here are a few simple ways you can help:
- Make sure your child gets a good night’s sleep before testing days.
- Provide a healthy breakfast each morning.
- Encourage them to do their best, but remind them that it’s okay to feel a little nervous. This is totally normal!
- Help them stick to a study schedule at home and limit distractions when possible.
We are excited to see them finish the year strong. We got this!
Also, a quick shoutout to our Yearbook and Digital Media class. They’ve been working super hard on this year’s yearbook. They’ve captured so many special moments, big and small, and we can’t wait for everyone to see the memories they’ve brought to life on the pages.
Thank you again for all your support this year. Let’s make these last few weeks count.
As Always, Go Eagles!
Ahed Abufeelat
Dean of Students
Message from the Curriculum Director
Greetings Eagles,
Eid Mubarak to all! I hope everyone enjoyed the Spring Break and that our students are ready to finish the school year on a strong note. There’s seven weeks left in the school year. Yep, you read that right! Like I always say…time flies when you’re having fun!
This month, students across grades 3-8 will be preparing for the Iowa Assessments. These standardized tests give us a good idea of where students are performing at their grade level. In the coming weeks, students will be preparing during class with their teachers to ensure they are ready when the time comes to take the tests in May!
Additionally, our High School students are gearing up for their AP Exams. We are proud to offer many Advanced Placement courses at Kindi, including AP World History, AP US History, AP Language and Composition, AP Precalculus, AP Calculus, AP Psychology, AP US Government, and AP Microeconomics. In all courses, we are now transitioning to preparing for the exams during class time for the month of April, to ensure students are adequately prepared to rock their exams and potentially earn college credit. Our AP Team consists of myself, Mr. Dan Aukst, Dr. Mark Jones, Ms. Ahed Abufeelat, and Ms. Sanjukta Paul. I applaud my colleagues on the AP Team for their hard work and dedication to student success!
While test preparation is definitely a priority this month, our students are thrilled to be partaking in the Outdoor Educational Opportunities at Timber Lee for Grades 4 to High School and White Pines Ranch for Grades 1 to 3. These trips provide valuable experiences for our students to take learning beyond the walls of the classroom. These trips, along with the various field trips students take monthly in the school, sets us apart from any other school…we value and believe in providing outdoor and hands-on experiences to extend learning beyond the classroom.
If you have any questions regarding our academic offerings here at Kindi, please feel free to contact me via email at [email protected].
Go Eagles, Go!
Sevim Memisovski
Director of Curriculum and Instruction
Kindi Academy
Eid Mubarak to all! I hope everyone enjoyed the Spring Break and that our students are ready to finish the school year on a strong note. There’s seven weeks left in the school year. Yep, you read that right! Like I always say…time flies when you’re having fun!
This month, students across grades 3-8 will be preparing for the Iowa Assessments. These standardized tests give us a good idea of where students are performing at their grade level. In the coming weeks, students will be preparing during class with their teachers to ensure they are ready when the time comes to take the tests in May!
Additionally, our High School students are gearing up for their AP Exams. We are proud to offer many Advanced Placement courses at Kindi, including AP World History, AP US History, AP Language and Composition, AP Precalculus, AP Calculus, AP Psychology, AP US Government, and AP Microeconomics. In all courses, we are now transitioning to preparing for the exams during class time for the month of April, to ensure students are adequately prepared to rock their exams and potentially earn college credit. Our AP Team consists of myself, Mr. Dan Aukst, Dr. Mark Jones, Ms. Ahed Abufeelat, and Ms. Sanjukta Paul. I applaud my colleagues on the AP Team for their hard work and dedication to student success!
While test preparation is definitely a priority this month, our students are thrilled to be partaking in the Outdoor Educational Opportunities at Timber Lee for Grades 4 to High School and White Pines Ranch for Grades 1 to 3. These trips provide valuable experiences for our students to take learning beyond the walls of the classroom. These trips, along with the various field trips students take monthly in the school, sets us apart from any other school…we value and believe in providing outdoor and hands-on experiences to extend learning beyond the classroom.
If you have any questions regarding our academic offerings here at Kindi, please feel free to contact me via email at [email protected].
Go Eagles, Go!
Sevim Memisovski
Director of Curriculum and Instruction
Kindi Academy
Thanks to Our GOLD Athletic Program Sponsors
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Thanks to Our SILVER Athletic Program Sponsors
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Eagles of the Month
PICTURE INCOMING NEXT WEEK!
Eagle of the Month – March: Patience
Even though we’re now in April, we didn’t want to miss the chance to celebrate our March Eagle of the Month winners. Better late than never!
The character trait for March was Patience. And with Ramadan falling during this month, many of you showed incredible patience. We’re proud to recognize the following students who stood out for their patience and character:
6-9 Eagles of the Month of March
R3
G1- Jude Watti
G2- Ayra Umar
G3- Husam Najjar
R4
G1- Asiyah Iftikhar
G2 Ezzah ud Din
G3 Haniya Moiduddin
R7
G1: Talia Shillo
G2: Haadi Lakhany
G3: Ameera Elanatour
R8
G3 - Ibrahim Patel
G2- Maysaloun Awad
G1- Naser Alrifai
4th Grade – Melia Alhamwi, Zayyan Asher, and Abrar Baig
5th Grade – Zaid Ashraf, Ezzeldin Abokifa, and Musa Ali
6th Grade – Tayseer Khan, Aqsa Qureshi, and Humza Uddin
7th Grade – Sarah Kabbany, Musa Ahsan, and Hanan Uddin
8th Grade – Shanzay Khan
High School – Sireen Raja
News from our 3-6 Classrooms
“When children come into contact with nature, they reveal their true strength.” — Maria Montessori
We hope everyone had a wonderful spring break! As spring brings new life and transformation to our environment, it’s the perfect time for us to explore life cycles with the children. Teachers will be introducing a variety of life cycles—such as butterflies, frogs, chickens, bees, turtles, and ladybugs—and we’re always excited to follow the children’s curiosity wherever it leads!
As the world around us begins to bloom, the children will observe budding trees, blossoming flowers, and other signs of new life during outdoor play. They will also learn about how plants grow, including the process of germination and the important “jobs” of each plant part in helping it thrive.
Earlier in March, we enjoyed a fun in-school field trip from RC Juggle Entertainment! The show was full of music, juggling, and balloon creations, and each child got to take home a balloon animal, sword, or hat. Before the break, our students also had their very first theatre experience with a live performance of The Jungle Book at the Dorothy Menker Theatre in Palos Hills—an entertaining and memorable adventure for all!
As the school year quickly winds down, we are making the most of every moment. Our students are working hard to reach their end-of-year academic goals, and our kindergarteners are beginning to rehearse for their graduation program, which will take place at the end of May. Exciting things are ahead!
~ The 3-6 Montessori Team
We hope everyone had a wonderful spring break! As spring brings new life and transformation to our environment, it’s the perfect time for us to explore life cycles with the children. Teachers will be introducing a variety of life cycles—such as butterflies, frogs, chickens, bees, turtles, and ladybugs—and we’re always excited to follow the children’s curiosity wherever it leads!
As the world around us begins to bloom, the children will observe budding trees, blossoming flowers, and other signs of new life during outdoor play. They will also learn about how plants grow, including the process of germination and the important “jobs” of each plant part in helping it thrive.
Earlier in March, we enjoyed a fun in-school field trip from RC Juggle Entertainment! The show was full of music, juggling, and balloon creations, and each child got to take home a balloon animal, sword, or hat. Before the break, our students also had their very first theatre experience with a live performance of The Jungle Book at the Dorothy Menker Theatre in Palos Hills—an entertaining and memorable adventure for all!
As the school year quickly winds down, we are making the most of every moment. Our students are working hard to reach their end-of-year academic goals, and our kindergarteners are beginning to rehearse for their graduation program, which will take place at the end of May. Exciting things are ahead!
~ 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 being established for solid understanding with our special Montessori equipment. Working with these tools will help develop their divergent thinking. Addition of fractions with like denominator has been introduced. 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. Types of angles and their measurement have been introduced. 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. They loved their project of nets of 3D shapes tied with faces, edges and vertices. 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 being established for solid understanding with our special Montessori equipment. Working with these tools will help develop their divergent thinking. Addition of fractions with like denominator has been introduced. 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. Types of angles and their measurement have been introduced. 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. They loved their project of nets of 3D shapes tied with faces, edges and vertices. 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
Fourth Grade English - Ms. Sameena Ansari
The students learned and enjoyed doing activities during the holy month! They read books, passages with thematic stories, and created amazing models to show their unique experiences and perceptions. Their work was inspiring and encouraging as they worked hard to achieve the desired results.Learners were able to make connections with the characters to express their feelings and emotions about their thoughts and ended up with a positive impact on their learning process.
Ms. Ashley 4th Grade English -
I hope everyone had a restful and relaxing spring break with their families. It is hard to believe we have reached the fourth quarter this swiftly. I would like to take this opportunity for your continued support and communication. Students and parents can look forward to the following: an end of the year party and celebration, fun Fridays, and an opportunity for extra credit with an end of the year project. Please, continue to check Google classroom regularly for dates and more information! In addition, the following dates are important: May 5th and 6th students will partake in the Iowa Basic Skills test. Students have been preparing by practicing test taking strategies and learning analogies.
Ms. Ashley 4th Grade Science -
Students and I are excited to continue exploring the Earth’s resources. Students have an opportunity to demonstrate and share their extensive knowledge by building a model of an ecosystem, writing a biography, or making a presentation. Guide your child with their selection to choose the best format to enhance their project. All details and instructions along with the rubric will be posted on Google classroom this Friday April 11th. Projects will be due on May 1st. I can not wait to see the results!
4th Grade Math - Ms. Megan Mullin
Students have been hard at work in math. My class has recently finished the Measurement Unit. Students found objects to relate to units, converted units such as pints to quarts, and computed with customary units. We are currently in the Metric Measurement Unit. Students are practicing how to convert and compare units of capacity, mass, and length. Next we will dive into area and volume.
4th Social Studies - Ms. Megan Mullin
Students have been busy in Social Studies! We have recently finished the Southwest Asia and North Africa Unit. Students learned about their geography, culture, and history. We discussed the three gifts of the Nile River, King Tut, and even decoded Hieroglyphics! In addition, students chose which North African country they wanted to learn about and made an informational online poster about the country's geography, tourist attractions, and government, for instance. Currently, we are studying Central and West Africa's geography, culture, and history. We will study ancient empires such as the Songhai, Mali, and Ghana Empires. Next, we will discuss East and South Africa's geography, culture, and history.
4th Grade English - Mrs. FasiczkaWe are reading Among the Hidden and focusing on narrative point of view and finding textual evidence. Students will complete a character trading card project at the end of the novel unit.
4th Grade Tech - Mrs. Fasiczka
4A continues to develop their coding skills this month. They are also working on typing practice and digital literacy.
The students learned and enjoyed doing activities during the holy month! They read books, passages with thematic stories, and created amazing models to show their unique experiences and perceptions. Their work was inspiring and encouraging as they worked hard to achieve the desired results.Learners were able to make connections with the characters to express their feelings and emotions about their thoughts and ended up with a positive impact on their learning process.
Ms. Ashley 4th Grade English -
I hope everyone had a restful and relaxing spring break with their families. It is hard to believe we have reached the fourth quarter this swiftly. I would like to take this opportunity for your continued support and communication. Students and parents can look forward to the following: an end of the year party and celebration, fun Fridays, and an opportunity for extra credit with an end of the year project. Please, continue to check Google classroom regularly for dates and more information! In addition, the following dates are important: May 5th and 6th students will partake in the Iowa Basic Skills test. Students have been preparing by practicing test taking strategies and learning analogies.
Ms. Ashley 4th Grade Science -
Students and I are excited to continue exploring the Earth’s resources. Students have an opportunity to demonstrate and share their extensive knowledge by building a model of an ecosystem, writing a biography, or making a presentation. Guide your child with their selection to choose the best format to enhance their project. All details and instructions along with the rubric will be posted on Google classroom this Friday April 11th. Projects will be due on May 1st. I can not wait to see the results!
4th Grade Math - Ms. Megan Mullin
Students have been hard at work in math. My class has recently finished the Measurement Unit. Students found objects to relate to units, converted units such as pints to quarts, and computed with customary units. We are currently in the Metric Measurement Unit. Students are practicing how to convert and compare units of capacity, mass, and length. Next we will dive into area and volume.
4th Social Studies - Ms. Megan Mullin
Students have been busy in Social Studies! We have recently finished the Southwest Asia and North Africa Unit. Students learned about their geography, culture, and history. We discussed the three gifts of the Nile River, King Tut, and even decoded Hieroglyphics! In addition, students chose which North African country they wanted to learn about and made an informational online poster about the country's geography, tourist attractions, and government, for instance. Currently, we are studying Central and West Africa's geography, culture, and history. We will study ancient empires such as the Songhai, Mali, and Ghana Empires. Next, we will discuss East and South Africa's geography, culture, and history.
4th Grade English - Mrs. FasiczkaWe are reading Among the Hidden and focusing on narrative point of view and finding textual evidence. Students will complete a character trading card project at the end of the novel unit.
4th Grade Tech - Mrs. Fasiczka
4A continues to develop their coding skills this month. They are also working on typing practice and digital literacy.
Happenings in the Science Room
Ms. Ella Honors 10t Grade Chemistry -
Welcome to the April edition of our 10th Grade Chemistry Newsletter! This month, we have been diving deep into the concepts of chemical quantities and limiting reactants, which are essential for understanding how chemical reactions occur.
Chemical Quantities
We kicked off the month by exploring chemical quantities, including the mole concept and Avogadro's number. Students learned how to convert between grams, moles, and molecules, which is crucial for stoichiometric calculations. Through hands-on activities, they practiced using dimensional analysis to solve real-world problems involving chemical quantities.
Limiting Reactants
Next, we tackled the concept of limiting reactants. Students engaged in group experiments to determine which reactant limits the amount of product formed in a reaction. They enjoyed analyzing data, calculating theoretical yields, and identifying the excess reactant. This practical approach helped solidify their understanding of how reactants interact in a chemical reaction.
Lab Experiment: We will conduct a lab where students will measure and calculate the limiting reactant in a reaction. Please remind your child to bring any necessary materials and to come prepared for hands-on learning!
Ms. Ella Honors Anatomy & Physiology -
Welcome to the April edition of our Anatomy and Physiology Newsletter! This month, we have been exploring the fascinating world of the nervous system, focusing on both the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS).
Understanding the Nervous System
We began our studies by delving into the structure and function of the CNS and PNS. Students learned about the roles of the brain and spinal cord in the CNS, as well as the various components of the PNS, including sensory and motor neurons.
Neurons: The Building Blocks
A significant portion of our lessons focused on neurons, the fundamental units of the nervous system. Students explored how neurons transmit signals, the different types of neurons in the PNS and CNS, and their specific functions.
Hands-On Activity: Building Our Own Neurons
One of the highlights of the month was our hands-on activity where students created their own model neurons using craft materials. This creative project allowed them to visualize the structure of neurons, including dendrites, axons, and synapses, while reinforcing their understanding of how neurons communicate.
Ms. Ella -7th Grade
Welcome to the April edition of our 7th Grade Chemistry Newsletter! This month, our students have been diving into the exciting world of chemical reactions, and I’m thrilled to share our progress with you.
Exploring Chemical Reactions
We began our month by exploring the fundamental concept of chemical reactions. Students learned to identify the signs of a reaction, such as color changes, gas production, and temperature changes. Through engaging experiments, they observed these phenomena firsthand, which helped solidify their understanding of how substances interact.
Types of Reactions
Next, we delved into the different types of chemical reactions, including synthesis, decomposition, single replacement, and double replacement reactions. Students participated in group activities where they categorized reactions and balanced chemical equations, enhancing their analytical skills.
Focus on Solubility
Currently, we are focusing on solubility! Students are investigating how different substances dissolve in water and the factors that affect solubility, such as temperature and pressure. They have conducted experiments to test the solubility of various salts and sugars, learning about saturation and supersaturation in the process.
Solubility Experiment: Students will conduct a lab experiment to explore how temperature affects the solubility of a substance. Please ensure your child comes prepared with any necessary materials.
Ms. Ella’s 5th Grade Science Class
Happy April! This month in our Earth and Space class, we have been exploring some fascinating topics that deepen our understanding of our planet and its celestial neighbors. Here’s a brief overview of what we’ve been learning:
The Moon: Our Constant Companion
We kicked off the month by diving into the wonders of Earth’s Moon. Students engaged in hands-on activities to learn about the Moon’s phases, its surface features, and its importance to Earth. We discussed how the Moon affects our lives, from guiding sailors to influencing animal behaviors.
Understanding Tides
Next, we explored the science behind tides. Students learned how the gravitational pull of the Moon and the Sun creates the regular rise and fall of ocean waters. Through experiments and demonstrations, we observed how tides vary depending on the positions of these celestial bodies.
Eclipses: Solar and Lunar
We wrapped up our month by investigating solar and lunar eclipses. Students watched simulations to understand the alignment of the Earth, Moon, and Sun during these spectacular events. We discussed the differences between the two types of eclipses and the significance of eclipses throughout history.
Ms. Jameel -
6th Grade Science: Exploring the Skeletal SystemThis month, 6th graders dove deep into the skeletal system, uncovering the incredible structure and function of our bones!
Here’s what we explored:
Interactive fun:
We played hands-on games and activities that helped us memorize bone names and understand how joints work in action.
Next Up: The Muscular System!We’ve just started learning how muscles work with bones to help us move. Stay tuned as we explore muscle types, how muscles contract, and what keeps our bodies moving every day!
9th Grade Science: Deep Dive into AngiospermsIn 9th grade, our focus has been all about angiosperms—the most diverse group of plants on Earth. We’ve been uncovering their anatomy and how they grow, function, and reproduce.
This month’s topics included:
We also began exploring:
The sexual reproduction of angiosperms—how flowers develop, how pollination happens, and how seeds are formed.
Lab Highlights: Students got hands-on experience with:
Welcome to the April edition of our 10th Grade Chemistry Newsletter! This month, we have been diving deep into the concepts of chemical quantities and limiting reactants, which are essential for understanding how chemical reactions occur.
Chemical Quantities
We kicked off the month by exploring chemical quantities, including the mole concept and Avogadro's number. Students learned how to convert between grams, moles, and molecules, which is crucial for stoichiometric calculations. Through hands-on activities, they practiced using dimensional analysis to solve real-world problems involving chemical quantities.
Limiting Reactants
Next, we tackled the concept of limiting reactants. Students engaged in group experiments to determine which reactant limits the amount of product formed in a reaction. They enjoyed analyzing data, calculating theoretical yields, and identifying the excess reactant. This practical approach helped solidify their understanding of how reactants interact in a chemical reaction.
Lab Experiment: We will conduct a lab where students will measure and calculate the limiting reactant in a reaction. Please remind your child to bring any necessary materials and to come prepared for hands-on learning!
Ms. Ella Honors Anatomy & Physiology -
Welcome to the April edition of our Anatomy and Physiology Newsletter! This month, we have been exploring the fascinating world of the nervous system, focusing on both the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS).
Understanding the Nervous System
We began our studies by delving into the structure and function of the CNS and PNS. Students learned about the roles of the brain and spinal cord in the CNS, as well as the various components of the PNS, including sensory and motor neurons.
Neurons: The Building Blocks
A significant portion of our lessons focused on neurons, the fundamental units of the nervous system. Students explored how neurons transmit signals, the different types of neurons in the PNS and CNS, and their specific functions.
Hands-On Activity: Building Our Own Neurons
One of the highlights of the month was our hands-on activity where students created their own model neurons using craft materials. This creative project allowed them to visualize the structure of neurons, including dendrites, axons, and synapses, while reinforcing their understanding of how neurons communicate.
Ms. Ella -7th Grade
Welcome to the April edition of our 7th Grade Chemistry Newsletter! This month, our students have been diving into the exciting world of chemical reactions, and I’m thrilled to share our progress with you.
Exploring Chemical Reactions
We began our month by exploring the fundamental concept of chemical reactions. Students learned to identify the signs of a reaction, such as color changes, gas production, and temperature changes. Through engaging experiments, they observed these phenomena firsthand, which helped solidify their understanding of how substances interact.
Types of Reactions
Next, we delved into the different types of chemical reactions, including synthesis, decomposition, single replacement, and double replacement reactions. Students participated in group activities where they categorized reactions and balanced chemical equations, enhancing their analytical skills.
Focus on Solubility
Currently, we are focusing on solubility! Students are investigating how different substances dissolve in water and the factors that affect solubility, such as temperature and pressure. They have conducted experiments to test the solubility of various salts and sugars, learning about saturation and supersaturation in the process.
Solubility Experiment: Students will conduct a lab experiment to explore how temperature affects the solubility of a substance. Please ensure your child comes prepared with any necessary materials.
Ms. Ella’s 5th Grade Science Class
Happy April! This month in our Earth and Space class, we have been exploring some fascinating topics that deepen our understanding of our planet and its celestial neighbors. Here’s a brief overview of what we’ve been learning:
The Moon: Our Constant Companion
We kicked off the month by diving into the wonders of Earth’s Moon. Students engaged in hands-on activities to learn about the Moon’s phases, its surface features, and its importance to Earth. We discussed how the Moon affects our lives, from guiding sailors to influencing animal behaviors.
Understanding Tides
Next, we explored the science behind tides. Students learned how the gravitational pull of the Moon and the Sun creates the regular rise and fall of ocean waters. Through experiments and demonstrations, we observed how tides vary depending on the positions of these celestial bodies.
Eclipses: Solar and Lunar
We wrapped up our month by investigating solar and lunar eclipses. Students watched simulations to understand the alignment of the Earth, Moon, and Sun during these spectacular events. We discussed the differences between the two types of eclipses and the significance of eclipses throughout history.
Ms. Jameel -
6th Grade Science: Exploring the Skeletal SystemThis month, 6th graders dove deep into the skeletal system, uncovering the incredible structure and function of our bones!
Here’s what we explored:
- Identified major bones in the human body.
- Discovered the structure of long bones – including the hard outer layer and spongy inner material.
- Learned about different types of bone cells (like osteoblasts and osteoclasts).
- Investigated joints and the types of movable joints that allow us to bend, twist, and move!
Interactive fun:
We played hands-on games and activities that helped us memorize bone names and understand how joints work in action.
Next Up: The Muscular System!We’ve just started learning how muscles work with bones to help us move. Stay tuned as we explore muscle types, how muscles contract, and what keeps our bodies moving every day!
9th Grade Science: Deep Dive into AngiospermsIn 9th grade, our focus has been all about angiosperms—the most diverse group of plants on Earth. We’ve been uncovering their anatomy and how they grow, function, and reproduce.
This month’s topics included:
- Plant tissue systems (dermal, vascular, and ground tissue)
- Anatomy of roots, stems, and leaves
- How each part contributes to transport, support, and photosynthesis
We also began exploring:
The sexual reproduction of angiosperms—how flowers develop, how pollination happens, and how seeds are formed.
Lab Highlights: Students got hands-on experience with:
- identifying plant tissues
- Dissecting flowers to observe reproductive structures
- Comparing leaf and stem cross-sections
News from our Middle/High School
Ms. Fasiczka English -
6th Grade English
We are finishing reading The Lightning Thief. Students will complete a literary analysis essay for their formative assessment. We will start reading our next novel, Of Beetles and Angels, this month.
7th Grade English
Seventh grade is currently reading Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury. When we are finished, they will present their own Google site based on a timeline of the events of the novel. They will also complete a literary analysis essay this month.
Ms. Ashley 5th Grade English -
Welcome back! I hope everyone had a restful and relaxing spring break with their families. It is hard to believe we have reached the fourth quarter this swiftly. I would like to take this opportunity for your continued support and communication. Students and parents can look forward to the following: an end of the year party and celebration, fun Fridays, and an opportunity for extra credit with an end of the year project. Please, continue to check Google classroom regularly for dates and more information! In addition, the following dates are important: May 5th and 6th students will partake in the Iowa Basic Skills test. Fifth grade students will begin their persuasive writing unit this quarter. I postponed due to students’ absences in the last weeks of March.
Dr. Mark Jones -
Having finished Charles Dickens’s Great Expectations during the month of March, eighth-grade students are turning their scholarly attention to a topic perfectly suited for April: baseball! During the next few weeks, we’ll be reading some of the great literary essays about the sport: A. Bartlett Giamati’s “The Green Fields of the Mind”; Stephen J. Gould’s “The Creation Myths of Cooperstown”; and Gay Talese’s “The Silent Season of a Hero.” The novel they will be studying alongside these nonfiction masterpieces is Douglass Wallop’s The Year the Yankees Lost the Pennant, which tells the story of Joe Boyd, a die-hard Washington Senators fan who would just about sell his soul for his team to win this year. If that happens to strike you as a Faustian bargain–it is! Indeed, Christopher Marlowe’s Doctor Faustus is the next great literary work we’ll be studying.
Ninth grade Honors English students are also turning their attention to a new text that happens to be seasonally appropriate. Having spent some frigid weeks studying Emily Brontë’s Wuthering Heights, we are now in the first act of Shakespeare’s As You Like It. Sometimes referred to as a “green-world comedy,” As You Like It is a magical evocation of the rejuvenating power of spring. Like many of Shakespeare’s plays, it offers a consideration of some of the ways in which life is like theater; and theater, like life. This, after all, is the comedy that features the famous insight that “All the world’s a stage.” We’ll be testing that proposition out as we attempt to enact some of the play’s scenes in class.
In Honors American Literature, the sophomores have begun Mark Twain’s masterpiece, Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. Like Ellison’s Invisible Man, which the students read last month, Huckleberry Finn is an American Bildungsroman, or coming-of-age narrative. While hilariously funny at times, the novel is also profoundly serious in its engagement of issues including racism, social hypocrisy, and personal responsibility. As controversial today as it was in the year of its publication (though for strikingly different reasons), it is a true American classic.
The AP English students began the quarter by studying a series of American prose poems: “The Colonel,” by Carolyn Forché; “Bath,” by Amy Lowell; and the whimsical “Oh My God, I’ll Never Get Home,” by Russell Edson. After they have finished revising the critical essays on
Hamlet that they drafted last semester, they will turn their hands to writing prose poems of their own. Given their writing skills and creativity, I look forward to reading some strong, student-authored prose poems next week.. Meanwhile, we are continuing our study of Joe Sacco’s graphic novel Palestine and have found that the text lends itself well to a postcolonial critical framework–so the students are now conversant in such concepts as discourse, hegemony, imagined communities, and the subaltern. Once we have finished studying Palestine, we will turn our attention to preparing for the May AP exam, while never losing sight of the art of the essay, which has been our main subject all year long.
Ms. Kayla Beck -
5th Grade
My 5th Grade Class has just completed reading, Holes and has begun a mystery novel, The Westing Game. Throughout this unit, students are using their analytical skills by gathering textual evidence to help solve the mystery. They've already worked on projects that explore character development, themes, and motives.
In addition to our reading, we’re currently progressing through Unit 12 of the Sadlier Workshop Vocabulary Workbook. As the vocabulary becomes more challenging, students have been integrating new words into their writing assignments.
Looking ahead, we’re excited to begin a creative writing assignment inspired by The Westing Game. Students will have the opportunity to craft their own mystery stories, applying what they’ve learned from the book.
6th Grade
My 6th Grade Class has just finished reading, A Long Walk to Water. As part of this unit, we’ve begun researching Sudan, and the students have done an outstanding job with their research presentations and papers!
Currently, students are reading Fever 1793, which focuses on the Yellow Fever Epidemic. This unit, students are exploring the impact of the epidemic on society.
We are also continuing to work through Unit 12 of the Sadlier Workshop Vocabulary Workbook. As the vocabulary becomes more challenging, students are practicing incorporating these new words into their writing assignments.
In writing, we’re focusing on skills such as eliminating second-person language, analyzing quotes, and selecting the best quotes to support their arguments in papers.
7th Grade
My 7th-grade class has just finished reading Monster and wrapped up a research paper. Students explored important topics like stereotyping, peer pressure, and family influence, and connected their findings to the themes in the novel. They did an excellent job with this paper!
Currently, students are reading, The Book Thief. In this unit, each student will take turns being discussion leader.
In writing, we are focusing on refining skills such as eliminating second-person, analyzing quotes, and selecting the most effective quotes to support their arguments in papers.
Ms. Sameena Ansari -
Fifth Grade English
The inquisitive students had prepared their presentations on the text read in the classroom to demonstrate their skills and abilities as they associated their learning with their work! The activities were planned to make them understand the concepts and let them learn from the experience and develop their thoughts so that they can become creative and achieve the expected outcome. The learners had illustrated beautifully and related to the concepts taught in the learning hub.
Sixth Grade English
The learning hub is a place where students learn and practice their skills to develop and grow wonderfully! They have read books on thematic concepts, exciting events, thrilling experiences to explore, share, and unfold the mysteries of life and reflect on relationships. The curious students are able to diagram their thoughts and place their thoughts sequentially. Passages on vocabulary, main idea, tone, comparisons and plot were read by them to create their own stories! They are able to use words creatively and organise their sentences to express themselves in a coherent manner!
Seventh Grade Creative Writing
The learning hub is a place where students learn and practice their skills to develop and grow wonderfully! They have read books on thematic concepts, exciting events, thrilling experiences to explore, share, and unfold the mysteries of life and reflect on relationships. The curious students are able to diagram their thoughts and place their thoughts sequentially. Passages on vocabulary, main idea, tone, comparisons and plot were read by them to create their own stories! They are able to use words creatively and organise their sentences to express themselves in a coherent manner!
Ms. Megan Mullin 7th Grade ELA -
We have been busy in ELA! Students have been reading Bomb: The Race to Build-and-Steal the World's Most Dangerous Weapon. This nonfiction novel will be the subject of our research paper. In order to prepare for our upcoming essay, students practiced writing a historical context and made a rubric to determine if a source is credible. My students have done a great job contextualizing the book and using both disciplines of U.S. History and English in discussion. Next, we will continue our journey in learning new vocabulary, skills, and elevating writing. In addition, we will finish the novel and our research paper.
5th Grade Study Skills - Mr. Daniel Aukst
We concluded the course this month. We focused on life skills that students should be applying throughout middle school. We covered many topics and discussed them using real examples. Some of the topics included forgiveness, empathy, the positive and negative impact of their actions, treating people with kindness, and the importance of having a positive class culture. Some of the topics required students to apply the lesson in their day and write a response. All the students did a great job during this course. I enjoyed teaching them.
6th Grade English
We are finishing reading The Lightning Thief. Students will complete a literary analysis essay for their formative assessment. We will start reading our next novel, Of Beetles and Angels, this month.
7th Grade English
Seventh grade is currently reading Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury. When we are finished, they will present their own Google site based on a timeline of the events of the novel. They will also complete a literary analysis essay this month.
Ms. Ashley 5th Grade English -
Welcome back! I hope everyone had a restful and relaxing spring break with their families. It is hard to believe we have reached the fourth quarter this swiftly. I would like to take this opportunity for your continued support and communication. Students and parents can look forward to the following: an end of the year party and celebration, fun Fridays, and an opportunity for extra credit with an end of the year project. Please, continue to check Google classroom regularly for dates and more information! In addition, the following dates are important: May 5th and 6th students will partake in the Iowa Basic Skills test. Fifth grade students will begin their persuasive writing unit this quarter. I postponed due to students’ absences in the last weeks of March.
Dr. Mark Jones -
Having finished Charles Dickens’s Great Expectations during the month of March, eighth-grade students are turning their scholarly attention to a topic perfectly suited for April: baseball! During the next few weeks, we’ll be reading some of the great literary essays about the sport: A. Bartlett Giamati’s “The Green Fields of the Mind”; Stephen J. Gould’s “The Creation Myths of Cooperstown”; and Gay Talese’s “The Silent Season of a Hero.” The novel they will be studying alongside these nonfiction masterpieces is Douglass Wallop’s The Year the Yankees Lost the Pennant, which tells the story of Joe Boyd, a die-hard Washington Senators fan who would just about sell his soul for his team to win this year. If that happens to strike you as a Faustian bargain–it is! Indeed, Christopher Marlowe’s Doctor Faustus is the next great literary work we’ll be studying.
Ninth grade Honors English students are also turning their attention to a new text that happens to be seasonally appropriate. Having spent some frigid weeks studying Emily Brontë’s Wuthering Heights, we are now in the first act of Shakespeare’s As You Like It. Sometimes referred to as a “green-world comedy,” As You Like It is a magical evocation of the rejuvenating power of spring. Like many of Shakespeare’s plays, it offers a consideration of some of the ways in which life is like theater; and theater, like life. This, after all, is the comedy that features the famous insight that “All the world’s a stage.” We’ll be testing that proposition out as we attempt to enact some of the play’s scenes in class.
In Honors American Literature, the sophomores have begun Mark Twain’s masterpiece, Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. Like Ellison’s Invisible Man, which the students read last month, Huckleberry Finn is an American Bildungsroman, or coming-of-age narrative. While hilariously funny at times, the novel is also profoundly serious in its engagement of issues including racism, social hypocrisy, and personal responsibility. As controversial today as it was in the year of its publication (though for strikingly different reasons), it is a true American classic.
The AP English students began the quarter by studying a series of American prose poems: “The Colonel,” by Carolyn Forché; “Bath,” by Amy Lowell; and the whimsical “Oh My God, I’ll Never Get Home,” by Russell Edson. After they have finished revising the critical essays on
Hamlet that they drafted last semester, they will turn their hands to writing prose poems of their own. Given their writing skills and creativity, I look forward to reading some strong, student-authored prose poems next week.. Meanwhile, we are continuing our study of Joe Sacco’s graphic novel Palestine and have found that the text lends itself well to a postcolonial critical framework–so the students are now conversant in such concepts as discourse, hegemony, imagined communities, and the subaltern. Once we have finished studying Palestine, we will turn our attention to preparing for the May AP exam, while never losing sight of the art of the essay, which has been our main subject all year long.
Ms. Kayla Beck -
5th Grade
My 5th Grade Class has just completed reading, Holes and has begun a mystery novel, The Westing Game. Throughout this unit, students are using their analytical skills by gathering textual evidence to help solve the mystery. They've already worked on projects that explore character development, themes, and motives.
In addition to our reading, we’re currently progressing through Unit 12 of the Sadlier Workshop Vocabulary Workbook. As the vocabulary becomes more challenging, students have been integrating new words into their writing assignments.
Looking ahead, we’re excited to begin a creative writing assignment inspired by The Westing Game. Students will have the opportunity to craft their own mystery stories, applying what they’ve learned from the book.
6th Grade
My 6th Grade Class has just finished reading, A Long Walk to Water. As part of this unit, we’ve begun researching Sudan, and the students have done an outstanding job with their research presentations and papers!
Currently, students are reading Fever 1793, which focuses on the Yellow Fever Epidemic. This unit, students are exploring the impact of the epidemic on society.
We are also continuing to work through Unit 12 of the Sadlier Workshop Vocabulary Workbook. As the vocabulary becomes more challenging, students are practicing incorporating these new words into their writing assignments.
In writing, we’re focusing on skills such as eliminating second-person language, analyzing quotes, and selecting the best quotes to support their arguments in papers.
7th Grade
My 7th-grade class has just finished reading Monster and wrapped up a research paper. Students explored important topics like stereotyping, peer pressure, and family influence, and connected their findings to the themes in the novel. They did an excellent job with this paper!
Currently, students are reading, The Book Thief. In this unit, each student will take turns being discussion leader.
In writing, we are focusing on refining skills such as eliminating second-person, analyzing quotes, and selecting the most effective quotes to support their arguments in papers.
Ms. Sameena Ansari -
Fifth Grade English
The inquisitive students had prepared their presentations on the text read in the classroom to demonstrate their skills and abilities as they associated their learning with their work! The activities were planned to make them understand the concepts and let them learn from the experience and develop their thoughts so that they can become creative and achieve the expected outcome. The learners had illustrated beautifully and related to the concepts taught in the learning hub.
Sixth Grade English
The learning hub is a place where students learn and practice their skills to develop and grow wonderfully! They have read books on thematic concepts, exciting events, thrilling experiences to explore, share, and unfold the mysteries of life and reflect on relationships. The curious students are able to diagram their thoughts and place their thoughts sequentially. Passages on vocabulary, main idea, tone, comparisons and plot were read by them to create their own stories! They are able to use words creatively and organise their sentences to express themselves in a coherent manner!
Seventh Grade Creative Writing
The learning hub is a place where students learn and practice their skills to develop and grow wonderfully! They have read books on thematic concepts, exciting events, thrilling experiences to explore, share, and unfold the mysteries of life and reflect on relationships. The curious students are able to diagram their thoughts and place their thoughts sequentially. Passages on vocabulary, main idea, tone, comparisons and plot were read by them to create their own stories! They are able to use words creatively and organise their sentences to express themselves in a coherent manner!
Ms. Megan Mullin 7th Grade ELA -
We have been busy in ELA! Students have been reading Bomb: The Race to Build-and-Steal the World's Most Dangerous Weapon. This nonfiction novel will be the subject of our research paper. In order to prepare for our upcoming essay, students practiced writing a historical context and made a rubric to determine if a source is credible. My students have done a great job contextualizing the book and using both disciplines of U.S. History and English in discussion. Next, we will continue our journey in learning new vocabulary, skills, and elevating writing. In addition, we will finish the novel and our research paper.
5th Grade Study Skills - Mr. Daniel Aukst
We concluded the course this month. We focused on life skills that students should be applying throughout middle school. We covered many topics and discussed them using real examples. Some of the topics included forgiveness, empathy, the positive and negative impact of their actions, treating people with kindness, and the importance of having a positive class culture. Some of the topics required students to apply the lesson in their day and write a response. All the students did a great job during this course. I enjoyed teaching them.
Updates From Social Studies
AP US History - Mr. Sevim Memisovski
Our AP US History students have completed our final units of study on more modern topics in US History, including the Watergate Scandal, Economic Crises of the 1970s, Rise of Conservatism in the 1980s, as well as the Globalization and Technology Boom of the 1990s and 2000s. Students are now diving into preparation for the AP Exam in May. We will be working specifically on our writing skills with the DBQ and LEQ Essays, and completing timed practice exams during class. I know students will do great!
AP Microeconomics - Mr. Sevim Memisovski
Our AP Micro students have been working hard in our studies of different firms. We just completed our units on Monopolies and Imperfect Competition, and are beginning to look at Factor/Resource Markets as well as how government intervention can affect firms and resources. We are also beginning to review the course material and prepare for the AP Exams in May, focusing on graphing and the FRQ portions. I know our students will do great!
5th Grade Ancient World History - Mr. Daniel Aukst
We have completed the Roman Republic, which included the three Punic Wars. We covered the major impact of the Punic Wars in shaping the course of history. We also covered the major leaders during the Punic Wars, which included Hannibal and Scipio. We then covered Julius Caesar and the First Triumvirate, Augustus and the Second Triumvirate, and major figures of that era. Major figures included Spartacus, the Gracchus brothers, Mark Anthony, and Cleopatra. We ended the month learning about the Pax-Romana period of the Roman Empire. It included a two-hundred-year period of emperors and their major accomplishments. We concluded that section covering the Crises of the 3rd Century. Finally, the students completed tests, worksheets, and small group and individual projects.
7th Grade United States History - Mr. Daniel Aukst
We began the month learning about the progressive era and the three Progressive Presidents: Teddy Roosevelt, William Taft, and Woodrow Wilson’s domestic and foreign policy. We then covered American Imperialism and America becoming a world power. Major topics included the Spanish-American War, the Panama Canal, Roosevelt Corollary and Great White Fleet, and the Philippine War. We ended the month completing the causes of WWI and the technology of WWI. Each section included supporting work and worksheets. The students also completed a section of Progressivism at home.
8th Grade Modern World History - Mr. Daniel Aukst
Students spent the beginning of the month completing the World Depression section. We then moved into WWII. We began by learning the new and different types of political movements, which included Fascism, Communism, and Democracy and the leaders who represented each. The leaders we covered were Hitler, Mussolini, Franco, Stalin, Tojo, and Roosevelt. We covered German, Italian, and Japanese aggressions leading to the war, and the policy of appeasement. We were able to get through WWII through V-E Day, and cover all the major battles, which included Dunkirk, Pearle Harbor, D-Day, Battle of the Bulge, and many major operations in Europe and Africa. Each topic included supporting work, worksheets, and a DBQ.
9th Grade AP World History - Mr. Daniel Aukst
We were able to complete the course this month. Students completed Latin America: Revolution and Reaction in the 21st Century, Africa, the Middle East and Asia in the era of independence, Rebirth and Revolution: Nation-building in East Asia and the Pacific Rim, and The End of the Cold War and the Shape of a New Era: World History 1990-2006. We will begin reviewing for the AP exam. In addition, the students completed key Terms, a LEQ on the Cold War, essay questions, and ended each section with a test.
6th Grade Social Studies - Ms. Megan Mullin
Students have been hard at work in Social Studies. They studied how colonialism affects people living in that country, its physical geography, and its long lasting impact today. We also finished the Sub-Saharan Unit with the geography, current events, and culture of South Africa. Students did a great job using evidence and reading a primary source about Nelson Mandela in order to write about his impact on apartheid. Currently, students are learning about the geography of South Asia and then we will delve into the culture, economy, and history of places such as India, Nepal, and Pakistan.
Our AP US History students have completed our final units of study on more modern topics in US History, including the Watergate Scandal, Economic Crises of the 1970s, Rise of Conservatism in the 1980s, as well as the Globalization and Technology Boom of the 1990s and 2000s. Students are now diving into preparation for the AP Exam in May. We will be working specifically on our writing skills with the DBQ and LEQ Essays, and completing timed practice exams during class. I know students will do great!
AP Microeconomics - Mr. Sevim Memisovski
Our AP Micro students have been working hard in our studies of different firms. We just completed our units on Monopolies and Imperfect Competition, and are beginning to look at Factor/Resource Markets as well as how government intervention can affect firms and resources. We are also beginning to review the course material and prepare for the AP Exams in May, focusing on graphing and the FRQ portions. I know our students will do great!
5th Grade Ancient World History - Mr. Daniel Aukst
We have completed the Roman Republic, which included the three Punic Wars. We covered the major impact of the Punic Wars in shaping the course of history. We also covered the major leaders during the Punic Wars, which included Hannibal and Scipio. We then covered Julius Caesar and the First Triumvirate, Augustus and the Second Triumvirate, and major figures of that era. Major figures included Spartacus, the Gracchus brothers, Mark Anthony, and Cleopatra. We ended the month learning about the Pax-Romana period of the Roman Empire. It included a two-hundred-year period of emperors and their major accomplishments. We concluded that section covering the Crises of the 3rd Century. Finally, the students completed tests, worksheets, and small group and individual projects.
7th Grade United States History - Mr. Daniel Aukst
We began the month learning about the progressive era and the three Progressive Presidents: Teddy Roosevelt, William Taft, and Woodrow Wilson’s domestic and foreign policy. We then covered American Imperialism and America becoming a world power. Major topics included the Spanish-American War, the Panama Canal, Roosevelt Corollary and Great White Fleet, and the Philippine War. We ended the month completing the causes of WWI and the technology of WWI. Each section included supporting work and worksheets. The students also completed a section of Progressivism at home.
8th Grade Modern World History - Mr. Daniel Aukst
Students spent the beginning of the month completing the World Depression section. We then moved into WWII. We began by learning the new and different types of political movements, which included Fascism, Communism, and Democracy and the leaders who represented each. The leaders we covered were Hitler, Mussolini, Franco, Stalin, Tojo, and Roosevelt. We covered German, Italian, and Japanese aggressions leading to the war, and the policy of appeasement. We were able to get through WWII through V-E Day, and cover all the major battles, which included Dunkirk, Pearle Harbor, D-Day, Battle of the Bulge, and many major operations in Europe and Africa. Each topic included supporting work, worksheets, and a DBQ.
9th Grade AP World History - Mr. Daniel Aukst
We were able to complete the course this month. Students completed Latin America: Revolution and Reaction in the 21st Century, Africa, the Middle East and Asia in the era of independence, Rebirth and Revolution: Nation-building in East Asia and the Pacific Rim, and The End of the Cold War and the Shape of a New Era: World History 1990-2006. We will begin reviewing for the AP exam. In addition, the students completed key Terms, a LEQ on the Cold War, essay questions, and ended each section with a test.
6th Grade Social Studies - Ms. Megan Mullin
Students have been hard at work in Social Studies. They studied how colonialism affects people living in that country, its physical geography, and its long lasting impact today. We also finished the Sub-Saharan Unit with the geography, current events, and culture of South Africa. Students did a great job using evidence and reading a primary source about Nelson Mandela in order to write about his impact on apartheid. Currently, students are learning about the geography of South Asia and then we will delve into the culture, economy, and history of places such as India, Nepal, and Pakistan.
Updates from our Arabic Department
Ms. Hayat Al-Quttub
Chair of Islamic studies and Arabic language -
Salam from Allah,
EID MUBARAK
Subhan Allah — how swiftly the blessed days of Ramadan have passed. It feels like just yesterday we welcomed this sacred month, and now bided it farewell. Throughout Ramadan, the school was filled with a spiritual energy that inspired reflection, growth, and unity.
We embraced this holy time by focusing on Qur'anic recitation and memorization across all grade levels. Lessons also centered around the importance of worship, the virtues it brings, and the etiquettes and rulings of fasting. Students explored the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and our collective duty towards the less fortunate, nurturing values of empathy, generosity, and moral excellence.
As part of our community service efforts, High School students proudly prepared goody bags for the entire student body—an act of kindness reflecting the spirit of giving. Additionally, we organized an Eid gift exchange for students in 4th grade and above, following the beautiful Sunnah of gift-giving to strengthen love and brotherhood. May Allah (SWT) accept all their acts of worship and shower His blessings upon them.
7th & 8th Grade Highlights
Our middle schoolers delved deeply into Ramadan's spiritual, emotional, and practical dimensions. Their lessons included:
High School Reflections
Our high school students engaged in critical reflection and thoughtful discussions throughout the month. Highlights included:
Arabic Department Newsletter
Eid Mubarak!
As Ramadan neared its end, our Arabic classes celebrated the richness of Middle Eastern culture. Students learned new vocabulary and expressions related to the month of Ramadan and Eid, exploring:
We pray that this Ramadan has been a time of growth, reflection, and inspiration for our students and their families. Eid Mubarak to all — may your hearts be filled with peace and your homes with blessings.
Ms. Nareman
Arabic, Islamic Studies, and Quran teacher -
March was a special month as our students immersed themselves in the teachings and traditions of Ramadan through various engaging activities and lessons tailored to each grade level.
Preschool & Kindergarten: Our youngest learners explored the significance of Ramadan in their Islamic Studies classes. We did many activities and read Ramadan books, and songs. These activities helped instill an early appreciation for the holy month. KG students started memorizing Surit Al-Qadr.
First Grade: In Islamic Studies, first graders delved deeper into the customs and values of Ramadan. They engaged in discussions about the importance of fasting, prayer, and charity, and participated in crafting lanterns and other decorations to symbolize the spirit of the month. These hands-on activities reinforced their understanding and personal connection to Ramadan. We ended the month learning about the night of power “Laylat Al Qadr”. We also learned about Eid.
Third, Fourth, and Fifth Grade Arabic Classes: Arabic lessons for these grades were dedicated entirely to Ramadan. Students expanded their vocabulary with terms related to the holy month, practiced constructing sentences about Ramadan traditions, and explored the cultural significance of the observance. Students engaged with the language in meaningful contexts. We ended the unit with learning about Eid and its Greetings in Arabic.
Ms. Khadeeja
Arabic and Islamic Studies -
Here is a little update from my classes, what we worked on before break and what comes next:
1st Grade- Arabic:
First graders have been doing an awesome job in Arabic class! They have mastered recognizing the shapes of most of the letters, recognizing new vocabulary, breaking words into letters, and putting words together all on their own! Moving forward we will continue learning about the next set of letters (ج,ح,خ) with short vowels, and long stretching letters, along with new vocabulary words that include these letters. Truly looking forward to continuing working and growing with my little first graders.
2nd Grade- Arabic: (Co-teacher: Ms.Lina)
Our seconds graders have been working very hard on recognizing and mastering the laam shamsiyyah and laam qamariyyah, and even though it was a challenging lesson but with repetition and a lot of practice anc class work they have now mastered in distinguishing between the two along with reading words correctly that include the laam shamsiyyah and laam qamariyyah. Our new unit is all about food, from new vocabulary about food, to making orders at a restaurant conversing in Arabic. We are very excited to start this unit with our second graders, a lot of fun learning to come!
4th Grade- Arabic:
My 4th graders have worked hard on their Ramadan and Eid packets before the break, they have mastered new vocabulary, and review pronouns with present tense verbs. We are excited to start a new unit of learning the numbers in Arabic focusing on how to read the time in Arabic. It is a fun unit full of fun activities and classwork.
6th Grade- Arabic:
My 6th graders are a true joy to have in a classroom! My students have worked very hard on mastering the singular, dual and plural grammar rules in Arabic, they have worked very hard on a lot classwork, homework, quizzes and tests to make sure they master the skill of using singular, and plural in both conversation in arabic and in writing. Now we have started our new lesson about food, the students will learn new food vocabulary, learn about the different types of food in Arabic. We will also be focusing on present tense and how to distinguish it and use it in a sentence. We will also be working on learning new pronouns to use with the present tense. At the end of the unit the students will get to present their favorite food to the class and share it with their classmates and friends.
3rd Grade- Islamic Studies:
We had a lot of fun in this class working on making thikir tasbeeh (rosary) with the kids to have on the last 10 days of Ramadan and use everyday after salah, and making Eid cards for their parents. We have started a new lesson learning about the 3 special mosques around the world, what is the significance of each one, the history behind it, and the reward of praying at one of these mosques.
9th Grade- Islamic Studies:
We have finally finished our beautiful unit learning all about the history of Palestine and how life goes in Palestine. We are wrapping up the unit with the students writing their own story books about Palestine. I am truly looking forward to seeing and reading their books. Moving forward we have a bunch of exciting lessons to talk about that relate very closely to the life of Muslim high school students. I'm looking forward to a lot of exciting discussions and problem solving.
Ms. Heiam
Arabic, Islamic Studies, and Quran teacher -
Ms. Manar & Ms. Rania
Arabic teacher -
In first grade, second grade, and third grade we focused on Ramadan this past month. We explored what Ramadan means, why it’s important, and some of the ways it’s celebrated around the world. We learned simple vocabulary related to Ramadan and Eid, read short stories. It was heartwarming to see how engaged the students were and how eager they were to share what they knew or ask questions
KG Classroom Update – Ramadan & Arabic Letters “ص،ض،ق” Activities
Last month in KG, we explored the themes of Ramadan and Eid through various engaging activities. We introduced related vocabulary and incorporated hands-on learning to help students connect with the cultural and religious significance of these celebrations.
In Arabic, we focused on the letters ( ص،ض ،ق ), integrating it with relevant words. Students practiced proper pronunciation and writing, and we reinforced learning by writing the letter on the board and connecting it with vocabulary.
With the Pre-Class students, I began teaching the Arabic letters through fun activities.
We have reached in last month the letters ‘س،ش،ص،ض’ and are focusing on pronouncing its sound correctly and practicing writing it on the board and with the letters song.”
Ms. Lina
Arabic and Islamic Studies -
This month, our students have been joyfully learning about the special months of Ramadan and Eid across all grade levels!
Our Pre-K 3 & 4 students explored the meanings of Ramadan and Eid through fun stories and coloring activities. They loved expressing their creativity while learning about these blessed days.
Our Kindergarteners were full of excitement as they learned about the significance of Ramadan. They especially enjoyed making Ramadan lanterns to decorate our classrooms and hallways, bringing a festive spirit to the school. The highlight was creating Eid cards as a surprise for their parents—such a sweet way to show love and appreciation!
In 1st grade Arabic, students learned key vocabulary related to Ramadan, fasting, and Eid. They also discussed how families celebrate these special days around the world.
Students in 4th and 5th grade Arabic took their learning further by engaging in fun puzzles and interactive activities focused on the themes of Ramadan and Eid. These activities helped reinforce their language skills while deepening their understanding of Islamic traditions.
We are so proud of our students’ enthusiasm and creativity this month. Wishing you all a blessed Ramadan and a joyful Eid ahead!
6th Grade Islamic Studies – A Deeper Connection
This month, our 6th grade Islamic Studies experience was especially meaningful as we explored the importance of Hadith and the wisdom of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).
Students engaged in thoughtful discussions about Ramadan, focusing on authentic Hadiths related to the virtues of fasting, prayer, and good deeds during this holy month.
We also took time to reflect on the last ten days and nights of Ramadan, learning why these moments are so spiritually significant. Students were encouraged to think about how they could strive harder in worship, prayer, and kindness during these blessed nights.
It was a truly inspiring time, filled with reflection, learning, and connection to the teachings of our faith.
Chair of Islamic studies and Arabic language -
Salam from Allah,
EID MUBARAK
Subhan Allah — how swiftly the blessed days of Ramadan have passed. It feels like just yesterday we welcomed this sacred month, and now bided it farewell. Throughout Ramadan, the school was filled with a spiritual energy that inspired reflection, growth, and unity.
We embraced this holy time by focusing on Qur'anic recitation and memorization across all grade levels. Lessons also centered around the importance of worship, the virtues it brings, and the etiquettes and rulings of fasting. Students explored the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and our collective duty towards the less fortunate, nurturing values of empathy, generosity, and moral excellence.
As part of our community service efforts, High School students proudly prepared goody bags for the entire student body—an act of kindness reflecting the spirit of giving. Additionally, we organized an Eid gift exchange for students in 4th grade and above, following the beautiful Sunnah of gift-giving to strengthen love and brotherhood. May Allah (SWT) accept all their acts of worship and shower His blessings upon them.
7th & 8th Grade Highlights
Our middle schoolers delved deeply into Ramadan's spiritual, emotional, and practical dimensions. Their lessons included:
- The importance of sincerity in worship
- Understanding what breaks the fast and proper etiquette
- Learning the difference between Qadā’, Fidyah, and Kaffārah to better grasp their responsibilities when making up missed fasts
- Exploring the spirit of charity during Ramadan as modeled by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ)
- Understanding the virtue of Laylat al-Qadr and how to make the most of this powerful night through prayer, reflection, and supplication
- Gaining practical knowledge about Zakat al-Fitr, its significance, and how it purifies one’s fast
High School Reflections
Our high school students engaged in critical reflection and thoughtful discussions throughout the month. Highlights included:
- A deeper understanding of the spiritual relevance of Ramadan, not just for Muslims but for humanity as a whole
- Exploration of historical events drawing connections between early Islamic history and the modern challenges facing Muslim communities
- Discussion around the concept of personal choice and how individual decisions influence both religious and worldly affairs
- Completion of a comprehensive timeline of Islamic History, from the Rashidun Caliphate through to the modern Muslim world, offering perspective on the growth, trials, and resilience of the Ummah
Arabic Department Newsletter
Eid Mubarak!
As Ramadan neared its end, our Arabic classes celebrated the richness of Middle Eastern culture. Students learned new vocabulary and expressions related to the month of Ramadan and Eid, exploring:
- Cultural traditions and customs across various Middle Eastern countries
- Popular foods and desserts enjoyed during Ramadan and Eid
- Modes of worship and communal celebrations unique to different regions
- The design and exchange of Eid greeting cards, allowing students to express creativity while sharing festive joy with their families
We pray that this Ramadan has been a time of growth, reflection, and inspiration for our students and their families. Eid Mubarak to all — may your hearts be filled with peace and your homes with blessings.
Ms. Nareman
Arabic, Islamic Studies, and Quran teacher -
March was a special month as our students immersed themselves in the teachings and traditions of Ramadan through various engaging activities and lessons tailored to each grade level.
Preschool & Kindergarten: Our youngest learners explored the significance of Ramadan in their Islamic Studies classes. We did many activities and read Ramadan books, and songs. These activities helped instill an early appreciation for the holy month. KG students started memorizing Surit Al-Qadr.
First Grade: In Islamic Studies, first graders delved deeper into the customs and values of Ramadan. They engaged in discussions about the importance of fasting, prayer, and charity, and participated in crafting lanterns and other decorations to symbolize the spirit of the month. These hands-on activities reinforced their understanding and personal connection to Ramadan. We ended the month learning about the night of power “Laylat Al Qadr”. We also learned about Eid.
Third, Fourth, and Fifth Grade Arabic Classes: Arabic lessons for these grades were dedicated entirely to Ramadan. Students expanded their vocabulary with terms related to the holy month, practiced constructing sentences about Ramadan traditions, and explored the cultural significance of the observance. Students engaged with the language in meaningful contexts. We ended the unit with learning about Eid and its Greetings in Arabic.
Ms. Khadeeja
Arabic and Islamic Studies -
Here is a little update from my classes, what we worked on before break and what comes next:
1st Grade- Arabic:
First graders have been doing an awesome job in Arabic class! They have mastered recognizing the shapes of most of the letters, recognizing new vocabulary, breaking words into letters, and putting words together all on their own! Moving forward we will continue learning about the next set of letters (ج,ح,خ) with short vowels, and long stretching letters, along with new vocabulary words that include these letters. Truly looking forward to continuing working and growing with my little first graders.
2nd Grade- Arabic: (Co-teacher: Ms.Lina)
Our seconds graders have been working very hard on recognizing and mastering the laam shamsiyyah and laam qamariyyah, and even though it was a challenging lesson but with repetition and a lot of practice anc class work they have now mastered in distinguishing between the two along with reading words correctly that include the laam shamsiyyah and laam qamariyyah. Our new unit is all about food, from new vocabulary about food, to making orders at a restaurant conversing in Arabic. We are very excited to start this unit with our second graders, a lot of fun learning to come!
4th Grade- Arabic:
My 4th graders have worked hard on their Ramadan and Eid packets before the break, they have mastered new vocabulary, and review pronouns with present tense verbs. We are excited to start a new unit of learning the numbers in Arabic focusing on how to read the time in Arabic. It is a fun unit full of fun activities and classwork.
6th Grade- Arabic:
My 6th graders are a true joy to have in a classroom! My students have worked very hard on mastering the singular, dual and plural grammar rules in Arabic, they have worked very hard on a lot classwork, homework, quizzes and tests to make sure they master the skill of using singular, and plural in both conversation in arabic and in writing. Now we have started our new lesson about food, the students will learn new food vocabulary, learn about the different types of food in Arabic. We will also be focusing on present tense and how to distinguish it and use it in a sentence. We will also be working on learning new pronouns to use with the present tense. At the end of the unit the students will get to present their favorite food to the class and share it with their classmates and friends.
3rd Grade- Islamic Studies:
We had a lot of fun in this class working on making thikir tasbeeh (rosary) with the kids to have on the last 10 days of Ramadan and use everyday after salah, and making Eid cards for their parents. We have started a new lesson learning about the 3 special mosques around the world, what is the significance of each one, the history behind it, and the reward of praying at one of these mosques.
9th Grade- Islamic Studies:
We have finally finished our beautiful unit learning all about the history of Palestine and how life goes in Palestine. We are wrapping up the unit with the students writing their own story books about Palestine. I am truly looking forward to seeing and reading their books. Moving forward we have a bunch of exciting lessons to talk about that relate very closely to the life of Muslim high school students. I'm looking forward to a lot of exciting discussions and problem solving.
Ms. Heiam
Arabic, Islamic Studies, and Quran teacher -
Ms. Manar & Ms. Rania
Arabic teacher -
In first grade, second grade, and third grade we focused on Ramadan this past month. We explored what Ramadan means, why it’s important, and some of the ways it’s celebrated around the world. We learned simple vocabulary related to Ramadan and Eid, read short stories. It was heartwarming to see how engaged the students were and how eager they were to share what they knew or ask questions
KG Classroom Update – Ramadan & Arabic Letters “ص،ض،ق” Activities
Last month in KG, we explored the themes of Ramadan and Eid through various engaging activities. We introduced related vocabulary and incorporated hands-on learning to help students connect with the cultural and religious significance of these celebrations.
In Arabic, we focused on the letters ( ص،ض ،ق ), integrating it with relevant words. Students practiced proper pronunciation and writing, and we reinforced learning by writing the letter on the board and connecting it with vocabulary.
With the Pre-Class students, I began teaching the Arabic letters through fun activities.
We have reached in last month the letters ‘س،ش،ص،ض’ and are focusing on pronouncing its sound correctly and practicing writing it on the board and with the letters song.”
Ms. Lina
Arabic and Islamic Studies -
This month, our students have been joyfully learning about the special months of Ramadan and Eid across all grade levels!
Our Pre-K 3 & 4 students explored the meanings of Ramadan and Eid through fun stories and coloring activities. They loved expressing their creativity while learning about these blessed days.
Our Kindergarteners were full of excitement as they learned about the significance of Ramadan. They especially enjoyed making Ramadan lanterns to decorate our classrooms and hallways, bringing a festive spirit to the school. The highlight was creating Eid cards as a surprise for their parents—such a sweet way to show love and appreciation!
In 1st grade Arabic, students learned key vocabulary related to Ramadan, fasting, and Eid. They also discussed how families celebrate these special days around the world.
Students in 4th and 5th grade Arabic took their learning further by engaging in fun puzzles and interactive activities focused on the themes of Ramadan and Eid. These activities helped reinforce their language skills while deepening their understanding of Islamic traditions.
We are so proud of our students’ enthusiasm and creativity this month. Wishing you all a blessed Ramadan and a joyful Eid ahead!
6th Grade Islamic Studies – A Deeper Connection
This month, our 6th grade Islamic Studies experience was especially meaningful as we explored the importance of Hadith and the wisdom of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).
Students engaged in thoughtful discussions about Ramadan, focusing on authentic Hadiths related to the virtues of fasting, prayer, and good deeds during this holy month.
We also took time to reflect on the last ten days and nights of Ramadan, learning why these moments are so spiritually significant. Students were encouraged to think about how they could strive harder in worship, prayer, and kindness during these blessed nights.
It was a truly inspiring time, filled with reflection, learning, and connection to the teachings of our faith.
Updates from our spanish classroom
Spanish with Maestra Maria Herrero:
I hope you are thoroughly enjoying Spring Break with your family and the end of Ramadan. I’m going to tell you all about what we’ve been working on during the month of March in Spanish class.
The students in the 3-6 program worked with the song “La finca del Tío Ramón” (Uncle Ramón’s Farm), which is about a farmer and the different animals on his farm. They also worked with the story and song “La Araña Pequeñita” (The Itsy Bitsy Spider). They loved watching the video and doing the hand motions to the song. We took advantage of the beginning of spring to go over the seasons again, work with the weather, and also practice colors with a fun Bingo game.
The 1st grade students worked on the project “La finca del Tío Ramón”. In it, we practiced farm vocabulary and the expression “Yo tengo” (I have). At the end of the project, we learned Uncle Ramón’s song and each child took home a mini-book of the song. They also worked on the project for the song “La Araña Pequeñita” (The Itsy Bitsy Spider) and we will finish this project at the beginning of April.
The 2nd grade students started the unit Doctores y Pacientes (Doctors and Patients), where we worked on vocabulary for body parts. At the end of the project, the children did a speaking activity where some of them were doctors and others were patients. The doctors had to ask “¿Te duele la cabeza?” (Does your head hurt?) and figure out which patient had a headache. It was a lot of fun and the kids loved it.
They have now started a new story: “Monarca, oso y Erizo” (Monarch, Bear, and Hedgehog). This story is about the migration of Monarch butterflies to Mexico during the winter and their return to the U.S. in the spring. The high-frequency words used in this story are: “quiere” (wants), “no puede” (can’t), “ve” (sees), “no le gusta” (doesn’t like), “dice” (says), “va” (goes), “hace frío” (it’s cold) and “hace calor” (it’s hot). We will continue working on this story throughout April.
The 3rd grade students continued working on the story “Tito el Pingüino” (Tito the Penguin), which they had started the previous month. The high-frequency words learned were: “Tiene hambre” (is hungry), “no puede” (can’t), “agarra”(grabs), “quiere” (wants), “va” (goes), “dice” (says), “come” (eats), and “tiene” (has). We worked on the story through different activities such as sequencing games, reading comprehension yoga, true or false, and read-and-draw activities.
The 4th grade students finished Unit 3 in March and took the corresponding test. They worked on a reading about the Dominican Republic. Currently, we are on the last part of Unit 4, where we’ve been working on vocabulary related to school and the different parts of the school, as well as reviewing the conjugation of the verb ir (to go), for example: “Tú vas a la clase de español” (You go to Spanish class).
Additionally, they have learned a series of basic verbs from the first conjugation group, which for now they’ve been using with the verb ir that they already know, for example: “Yo voy a estudiar” (I am going to study). In the next class, they’ll begin learning to conjugate these verbs, for example: “Yo estudio” (I study).
The 5th grade students finished Unit 9, which focused on learning about school subjects and adjectives to describe each one of them. We also focused a lot on the conjugation of -er and -ir verbs (2nd and 3rd conjugation), doing several exercises to practice and solidify their learning. The students took the corresponding test for the unit and achieved very good results. We will begin April with a reading about Puerto Rico.
Spanish with Maestra Maria Mendez:
3rd Grade -
In our Spanish class, we have been learning with readings and then answering questions. As we practice the date, weather and emotions they are truly engaged in the activity and learn a lot of new vocabulary! Students love singing and answering questions about different activities they do. We will continue to learn vocabulary and different verbs and commands. We will continue learning with games and other fun assignments.
5th Grade -
I hope you all had a great Spring break!
We have Unit 9 in our book, where students have learned about different activities they do in school, subjects they like (or they don’t). They have also learned about Puerto Rico as one of the places where Spanish is spoken, its culture, famous artists and baseball players. In Unit 10 we learned to talk about family members, talk about who owns things and how to describe people. When we finish this unit we will start a review of all the lessons and vocabulary, we will also learn about Nicaragua as one of the countries where Spanish is spoken.
6th Grade -
In Unit 2, Lesson 2, students have been learning about the verb Tener (have and have to) and students are able to see the difference between both. They are able to tell the class when they are doing different activities. We will continue using “telehistorias” to improve their listening and comprehension skills. They are also able to describe their different classes with as many details as possible and give a description of their favorite class. In this unit they have been learning about Mexico, its culture and artists.
7th Grade -
Time flies! And as we return from our Spring Break, we will continue with Unit 4, where students have been learning about clothing, how to describe what they are wearing and its cost and also the different times to wear them. We reviewed the seasons, and some expressions with the verb “Tener” (to have). They have also learned stem-changing verbs with written exercises as well as speaking. They will learn how to give excuses when they cannot do something using written and spoken exercises. Students will read about markets as a way to explore the culture of a city.
8th Grade -
It is good to be back after our Spring break! Through written and spoken exercises, students have learned about pronouns and prepositions as well as different outdoor activities. We have been talking about Argentina, its culture, food and music. We will continue to learn about things they did and how it was, the preterites of ir (to go), ser (to be) and hacer (to do) and pronouns
after prepositions and also how to extend an invitation. We will review places around town and stem-changing verbs.
Spanish 2 -
It is great to be back after Spring break! We have worked on possessive adjectives, how to describe family members and how to use comparisons. We will continue Unit 7 Lesson 2 with a review of all the Unit and then we will start Unit 8 where we will review expressions of frequency and vacation activities and students will learn about Ecuador, its culture and traditions. They will also learn about future actions or events and environmental problems and solutions and how to talk about it.
Spanish 3 -
In Spanish 3, students have been learning about future tense and activities related to inventions. They have learned about the use of the subjunctive and are able to write sentences using it. We will review commands and impersonal expressions, as well as future tense. Students will learn to discuss obligations and responsibilities, present and support an opinion, express a point of view and make recommendations, all these in written and spoken exercises.
Spanish with Maestra Alicia Abu-Elreish:
¡Hola! March was a productive and exciting month in 4th grade Spanish class! We continued our journey through Unit 4, focusing on vocabulary and grammar that helped students expand their ability to talk about school and future plans in Spanish.
In vocabulary, students learned to name different school classes and locations, as well as to describe common classroom activities. They practiced using new verbs such as “pintar”(to paint), “estudiar” (to study), and “usar la computadora”(to use the computer). These words helped them describe what they do during the school day in Spanish.
For grammar, we introduced the structure “ir a + infinitive” to help students talk about future activities, like “Voy a estudiar” (I’m going to study). They also learned how to ask and answer questions using phrases such as ¿A dónde vas? (Where are you going?) and ¿Qué vas a hacer?(What are you going to do?).
The students have been doing a great job applying what they've learned in class through games, role-plays, and short dialogues. I'm proud of their progress and enthusiasm for the language!
5th Grade Spanish
We wrapped up Unit 9 by learning how to use the singular forms of -er and -ir verbs, including aprender (to learn), comprender (to understand), eer (to read), and escribir (to write). Students practiced using these verbs with the correct endings to talk about what they and others do.
We then moved on to Unit 10, titled “Mi familia y yo" (My Family and I). In this unit, students began learning vocabulary to name family members. To put their new vocabulary into practice, each student created a genealogical tree about their own family. This fun and meaningful activity gave us the chance to get to know each other’s families and use Spanish in a personal and engaging way.
As part of our cultural focus, we also explored family life and relationships in Spanish-speaking countries, discussing similarities and differences between cultures and how families are celebrated and valued around the world.
6th Grade Spanish
¡Hola! I’m excited to share with you what your children have been working on in Spanish class during the month of March. Our 6th graders have been making great progress as we continued exploring Unit 2, Lesson 1 of the Avancemos 1 textbook.
This month, we focused on building vocabulary related to telling time, school and class schedules, numbers, school subjects, and classroom activities. Students practiced how to talk about their daily routines and describe their academic life in Spanish, which helped them make connections to their own experiences.
On the grammar side, we introduced the verb"tener"(to have). Students learned how to conjugate "tener"and use it to say what people have (e.g., Yo tengo clase a las ocho) and what they have to do using the phrase "tener que + infinitive"(e.g., Tú tienes que estudiar). They also practiced discussing how often they do certain things, expanding their ability to express themselves in more complete sentences.
7th Grade Spanish
I hope this message finds you well! March was a productive and exciting month in our 7th grade Spanish class.
At the beginning of the month, students completed their Unit 4, Lesson 1 exam, demonstrating their understanding of the vocabulary and grammar covered earlier in the year. I’m proud of the effort they put into preparing for and taking the test!
Following the exam, we began Unit 4, Lesson 2. In this lesson, students started learning new vocabulary related to places to go in town, such as the coffe shop, park, and movie theater. They also learned how to talk about different means of transportation like the bus, train, and car. Additionally, we practiced how to order a meal at a restaurant using common expressions and relevant vocabulary.
To enrich their learning, we also discussed how Spanish varies across different regions, especially in terms of food and transportation vocabulary. This gave students a deeper appreciation for the diversity of the Spanish-speaking world.
8th Grade Spanish
March was a productive and exciting month in our 8th grade Spanish class! Students successfully completed Unit 8, Lesson 2 of the Avancemos 1 textbook. We wrapped up the unit by focusing on demonstrative adjectives words like this, that, these, and those in Spanish that help us point out specific items. Your children practiced using these adjectives to describe and identify various objects, reinforcing both grammar and vocabulary skills.
To demonstrate their learning, students took their Unit 8 Examand performed wonderfully. To close the unit, we revisited one of their favorite interactive activities, “Un mercado en Costa Rica,”where students role-played in a market setting. This fun and dynamic activity gave them a chance to apply everything they’ve learned in the unit from vacation vocabulary to souvenir shopping and expressions used in real-life conversations.
Looking ahead, we are excited to begin Spanish 2 using the Avancemos 2 textbook. This next level will deepen their understanding of the language and continue to build on the strong foundation they’ve developed so far.