MARCH 2025
"THE PRICE OF SUCCESS IS HARD WORK, DEDICATION TO THE JOB AT HAND, AND THE DETERMINATION THAT WHETHER WE WIN OR LOSE, WE HAVE APPLIED THE BEST OF OURSELVES TO THE TASK AT HAND."
VINCE LOMBARDI
VINCE LOMBARDI
Message from the Executive Director
Hello Kindians,
Ramadan Mubarak!
As we draw nearer to the culmination of the school year, each day serves as a poignant reminder of the extraordinary journey we've shared, and we are eager to savor every moment as we approach the summer break.
We just concluded our Annual Iftar/Dinner Fundraiser on March 8th. The event was a wonderful opportunity for the community to get together and enjoy a joyful night together away from the hustle and bustle of our busy days. I enjoyed the side chats I had with many of the parents as well as the opportunity to get to know many of you on a personal level. The high mark of the night was the display of a video showcasing Kindi's philosophy and why parents choose Kindi as their favorite school. We also screened a video showing Kindi's next charity project which is the building and sustaining a school in Gaza. Parents engagement with the project was remarkable. I am so grateful to the community for supporting Kindi and its projects.
Our hearts are brimming with anticipation for the remarkable opportunities that lie ahead at Kindi. We will go on two overnight trips for students in grades 1 to 12:
On another front, we started our registration process for the next school year. Please spread the news and a good word about Kindi to all your friends and family. We are always honored and humbled by the trust parents put in Kindi to teach and nurture their children.
As we approach the final chapter of this school year, let us come together—parents and teachers alike—to finish strong and celebrate the incredible journey we’ve embarked upon with our students. Each day is an opportunity to inspire, nurture, and make a lasting impact, and your dedication has been the cornerstone of our collective success. Together, let’s reignite our passion for this education mission we all embrace, celebrate the progress we’ve made, and approach each day with the excitement and purpose it deserves. The finish line is in sight .... we can cross it with pride, joy, and a sense of accomplishment that reflects the incredible community we’ve built.
Let’s make these final weeks unforgettable!
Warm regards,
Hatem Elagha
Executive Director
Kindi Academy
Ramadan Mubarak!
As we draw nearer to the culmination of the school year, each day serves as a poignant reminder of the extraordinary journey we've shared, and we are eager to savor every moment as we approach the summer break.
We just concluded our Annual Iftar/Dinner Fundraiser on March 8th. The event was a wonderful opportunity for the community to get together and enjoy a joyful night together away from the hustle and bustle of our busy days. I enjoyed the side chats I had with many of the parents as well as the opportunity to get to know many of you on a personal level. The high mark of the night was the display of a video showcasing Kindi's philosophy and why parents choose Kindi as their favorite school. We also screened a video showing Kindi's next charity project which is the building and sustaining a school in Gaza. Parents engagement with the project was remarkable. I am so grateful to the community for supporting Kindi and its projects.
Our hearts are brimming with anticipation for the remarkable opportunities that lie ahead at Kindi. We will go on two overnight trips for students in grades 1 to 12:
- Timber-lee Overnight Trip from April 16 to 18: This trip is for grades 4 and higher. Prepare for an unforgettable adventure as we set off on our highly anticipated Wisconsin trip! This year, we will explore the natural wonders of Camp Timber-Lee, where students and chaperones alike will immerse themselves in enriching, nature-based learning experiences. This excursion promises to be both educational and inspiring, leaving lasting impressions on all who participate.
- White Pines Ranch from April 23 to 25: This trip is for grades 1 to 3. Prepare for serenity and direct interaction with nature in this serene camp site. Children will learn survival skills, ride horses, and sit around bon fire on the quiet and magical nights on this ranch.
On another front, we started our registration process for the next school year. Please spread the news and a good word about Kindi to all your friends and family. We are always honored and humbled by the trust parents put in Kindi to teach and nurture their children.
As we approach the final chapter of this school year, let us come together—parents and teachers alike—to finish strong and celebrate the incredible journey we’ve embarked upon with our students. Each day is an opportunity to inspire, nurture, and make a lasting impact, and your dedication has been the cornerstone of our collective success. Together, let’s reignite our passion for this education mission we all embrace, celebrate the progress we’ve made, and approach each day with the excitement and purpose it deserves. The finish line is in sight .... we can cross it with pride, joy, and a sense of accomplishment that reflects the incredible community we’ve built.
Let’s make these final weeks unforgettable!
Warm regards,
Hatem Elagha
Executive Director
Kindi Academy
Message from the Dean
Dear Kindi Community,
I want to start by wishing all of our families Ramadan Mubarak! I hope this month brings peace and blessings to everyone.
We’re working on adding a new trophy case to celebrate our students' achievements, and our students are helping raise the funds! On Thursday, February 27, we had our last hot cocoa sale for the year. I want to thank everyone who came out and supported the trophy case fundraiser. On Thursday, we raised $854 from the Hot Cocoa Sale. We now have a grand total of $3,749. We are so close to our goal of $4,500. We got this!
Diving into College & Career
Our 7th-high school students have been working on an exciting career exploration project. They are looking into hands-on careers that match their skills and hobbies. researching different fields, and thinking seriously about their futures.
I encourage you to ask your child about what they’ve learned so far. These conversations make a big difference in helping them discover what excites them for the future!
Social & Emotional Learning /Character EducationEvery month, we focus on a different character trait to help students grow beyond the classroom. February’s theme was Humility. For March, we are focusing on Patience. We want our students to learn the meaning of patience and help them stay calm through challenges and handle setbacks with grace. Whether it's learning a new skill, or even just standing in line without frustration, patience is an important skill for life!
If you have any questions, ideas, or just want to chat, my door is always open.
You can always email me at [email protected] or [email protected]
Thank you and wishing you all a wonderful and blessed month!
I want to start by wishing all of our families Ramadan Mubarak! I hope this month brings peace and blessings to everyone.
We’re working on adding a new trophy case to celebrate our students' achievements, and our students are helping raise the funds! On Thursday, February 27, we had our last hot cocoa sale for the year. I want to thank everyone who came out and supported the trophy case fundraiser. On Thursday, we raised $854 from the Hot Cocoa Sale. We now have a grand total of $3,749. We are so close to our goal of $4,500. We got this!
Diving into College & Career
Our 7th-high school students have been working on an exciting career exploration project. They are looking into hands-on careers that match their skills and hobbies. researching different fields, and thinking seriously about their futures.
I encourage you to ask your child about what they’ve learned so far. These conversations make a big difference in helping them discover what excites them for the future!
Social & Emotional Learning /Character EducationEvery month, we focus on a different character trait to help students grow beyond the classroom. February’s theme was Humility. For March, we are focusing on Patience. We want our students to learn the meaning of patience and help them stay calm through challenges and handle setbacks with grace. Whether it's learning a new skill, or even just standing in line without frustration, patience is an important skill for life!
If you have any questions, ideas, or just want to chat, my door is always open.
You can always email me at [email protected] or [email protected]
Thank you and wishing you all a wonderful and blessed month!
Message from the Curriculum Director
Greetings Eagles and Ramadan Mubarak!
It’s hard to believe that we’re about to embark on the final quarter of the school year in just over a week. It really is true…time flies when you’re having fun!
At Kindi Academy, we offer the strongest academic program for our students. Recently, I was asked to share a success story of students we’ve had in past years. One that stood out to me was a fifth-grader years back. The student came to us and needed additional support in Math (coming in well below grade level in math). By the time the student graduated 8th grade, they finished Geometry! Imagine…within just four short years, the student was able to complete six courses in mathematics.
I know what you’re thinking…how do you do it? Well, our class sizes are small (roughly 8-10 students in most math classes, some as small as 3-4 students!). This ensures teachers know exactly where each student is at and where they need more support to target their needs and really work with them on each skill. This student also worked very hard to get to that point and was willing to put in additional time and effort outside of class to see the great success that they did! I always say…with hard work, dedication, and effort…ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE!
We’ve seen tremendous growth at Kindi over the past few years, and we continue to invest in the resources we need to ensure many more years of academic success for our students. I thank all our teachers for their efforts and dedication to our students’ academic success, and thank the community for your continued support!
Wishing everyone many more years of success together!
Go Eagles, Go!
Sevim Memisovski
Director of Curriculum and Instruction
Kindi Academy
It’s hard to believe that we’re about to embark on the final quarter of the school year in just over a week. It really is true…time flies when you’re having fun!
At Kindi Academy, we offer the strongest academic program for our students. Recently, I was asked to share a success story of students we’ve had in past years. One that stood out to me was a fifth-grader years back. The student came to us and needed additional support in Math (coming in well below grade level in math). By the time the student graduated 8th grade, they finished Geometry! Imagine…within just four short years, the student was able to complete six courses in mathematics.
I know what you’re thinking…how do you do it? Well, our class sizes are small (roughly 8-10 students in most math classes, some as small as 3-4 students!). This ensures teachers know exactly where each student is at and where they need more support to target their needs and really work with them on each skill. This student also worked very hard to get to that point and was willing to put in additional time and effort outside of class to see the great success that they did! I always say…with hard work, dedication, and effort…ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE!
We’ve seen tremendous growth at Kindi over the past few years, and we continue to invest in the resources we need to ensure many more years of academic success for our students. I thank all our teachers for their efforts and dedication to our students’ academic success, and thank the community for your continued support!
Wishing everyone many more years of success together!
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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Reem’s Ramadan Poem
Ramadan
By Reem Adhami
This month is a very blessed time
Where the moon lights up the sky, in Ramadan
The crescent moon gleams so bright
And I look up admiring it so high, in Ramadan
30 days of fasting, getting closer to god
Reading the miraculous words of the Quran trying not to cry, in Ramadan
Going to the mosque, the house of god
Praying all night is what we try, in Ramadan
My stomach grumbles all day,
But we must remember the kids in Gaza scared to die, in Ramadan
Paying zakat is the right thing to do,
For we will be asked if we didn't why, in Ramadan
Enjoy these blessed days,
For they go by, in Ramadan
Worshipping Allah is so important,
So we must not sigh, in Ramadan
Fasting is for God,
For he blesses us to buy, In Ramadan
I ask for him to make this month easy,
And the All-Merciful says Aye, In Ramadan
the family encourages reem to fast,
And she has this promise in her eye, in Ramadan
By Reem Adhami
This month is a very blessed time
Where the moon lights up the sky, in Ramadan
The crescent moon gleams so bright
And I look up admiring it so high, in Ramadan
30 days of fasting, getting closer to god
Reading the miraculous words of the Quran trying not to cry, in Ramadan
Going to the mosque, the house of god
Praying all night is what we try, in Ramadan
My stomach grumbles all day,
But we must remember the kids in Gaza scared to die, in Ramadan
Paying zakat is the right thing to do,
For we will be asked if we didn't why, in Ramadan
Enjoy these blessed days,
For they go by, in Ramadan
Worshipping Allah is so important,
So we must not sigh, in Ramadan
Fasting is for God,
For he blesses us to buy, In Ramadan
I ask for him to make this month easy,
And the All-Merciful says Aye, In Ramadan
the family encourages reem to fast,
And she has this promise in her eye, in Ramadan
Eagles of the Month
Eagle of the Month – FebruaryCongratulations to our Eagle of the Month for February! Many of our students have shown incredible humility and kindness. These students were selected because they were observed consistently showing good behavior in the classroom, put others before themselves and set a great example for their classmates.
From 6-9
G1- Mikael Lokhandwala
G2- Shawn Cagle
G3- Madina Nathan
GI - Ayrah Khan
G2 - Xavier Qureshi
G3 - Ahmed Musa
G1 - Aizah Akhtar
G2 - Yusuf A Murtaza
G3 - Ali Shillo
G1- Talia Sabbagh
G2 - Melana Varaska
G3 - Harith Talha
4th grade: Maryam Umair, Eman Yadullahi, Abdullah Hoda
5th grade: Haniya Noman, Talha Rashid
6th grade: Zain Eladwiy, Adam Hassan
7th grade: Mulook Saadoon, Sara Barazi
8th grade: Sarah Fawzi
HS: Ismail Saeed
From 6-9
G1- Mikael Lokhandwala
G2- Shawn Cagle
G3- Madina Nathan
GI - Ayrah Khan
G2 - Xavier Qureshi
G3 - Ahmed Musa
G1 - Aizah Akhtar
G2 - Yusuf A Murtaza
G3 - Ali Shillo
G1- Talia Sabbagh
G2 - Melana Varaska
G3 - Harith Talha
4th grade: Maryam Umair, Eman Yadullahi, Abdullah Hoda
5th grade: Haniya Noman, Talha Rashid
6th grade: Zain Eladwiy, Adam Hassan
7th grade: Mulook Saadoon, Sara Barazi
8th grade: Sarah Fawzi
HS: Ismail Saeed
News from our 3-6 Classrooms
“The land is where our roots are. The children must be taught to feel and live in harmony with the Earth.”
~ Maria Montessori
As the days grow longer and spring approaches, we find ourselves reflecting on the whirlwind that was February! Though it passed quickly, it was filled with learning and growth.
First, we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to all our parents for another round of successful parent-teacher conferences. It was wonderful to share the progress your children have made since our last meetings. We are so proud of their hard work and dedication!
February began with Groundhog Day, and Woodstock Willie did not see his shadow—an early spring is on its way! In the classroom, the children learned about groundhogs and their unique role in predicting the changing seasons. Teachers also introduced the parts of a groundhog, sparking curiosity about these fascinating creatures. Children are also progressing with language works, whether they're working on reading, comprehension, writing sentences, grammar, and spelling folders. In math, many of our Pre-4 students are already working on subtraction and multiplication. The kindergartners are learning how to build and add 3-digit and 4-digit numbers with golden beads!
Now, as we welcome March, we shift our focus to the wonders of spring. This month, teachers will explore life cycles, introducing children to the transformations of frogs, chickens, ladybugs, butterflies, and more. With spring break just around the corner, March is sure to fly by!
We’re especially looking forward to some exciting events, including a juggling and balloon show by RC Juggle Entertainment and a trip to the Dorothy Menker Theatre to watch The Jungle Book!
Wishing you all a wonderful start to spring!
~ The 3-6 Montessori Team
~ Maria Montessori
As the days grow longer and spring approaches, we find ourselves reflecting on the whirlwind that was February! Though it passed quickly, it was filled with learning and growth.
First, we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to all our parents for another round of successful parent-teacher conferences. It was wonderful to share the progress your children have made since our last meetings. We are so proud of their hard work and dedication!
February began with Groundhog Day, and Woodstock Willie did not see his shadow—an early spring is on its way! In the classroom, the children learned about groundhogs and their unique role in predicting the changing seasons. Teachers also introduced the parts of a groundhog, sparking curiosity about these fascinating creatures. Children are also progressing with language works, whether they're working on reading, comprehension, writing sentences, grammar, and spelling folders. In math, many of our Pre-4 students are already working on subtraction and multiplication. The kindergartners are learning how to build and add 3-digit and 4-digit numbers with golden beads!
Now, as we welcome March, we shift our focus to the wonders of spring. This month, teachers will explore life cycles, introducing children to the transformations of frogs, chickens, ladybugs, butterflies, and more. With spring break just around the corner, March is sure to fly by!
We’re especially looking forward to some exciting events, including a juggling and balloon show by RC Juggle Entertainment and a trip to the Dorothy Menker Theatre to watch The Jungle Book!
Wishing you all a wonderful start to spring!
~ The 3-6 Montessori Team
Updates from Our 6-9 Classroom
“The hands are the instruments of man's intelligence.” “The first essential for the child's development is concentration.”
Maria Montessori
Our First year students have been enthusiastic about their new descriptive writings. They are creative in producing their work and demonstrate the power of their intelligence in learning new concepts of word study. They are enjoying learning about adjectives and the noun family. Advanced concepts of money have been introduced and they are taking a step ahead in abstraction for addition and subtraction. Measuring in inches and half inches will serve as scaffolding for higher concepts. They had fun learning about liquid measurement with a math experiment. In the social sciences, animals and plant kingdom, physical science experiments and working with landforms are continuously building their knowledge. Building simple machines was fun.
Our Second year students are demonstrating a positive energy in understanding advanced concepts. The continuity of their hard work is shown in their desire to learn. They are creating sentences and applying their knowledge of all parts of speech. Exercises of building vocabulary are integrated in their writings with correct punctuation and spellings. Ongoing reading comprehension exercises will help them apply analytical skills. Students practiced with 2-digit multipliers and 4-digit multiplicands with the checkerboard. Word problems are enhancing their brain power. They are excited to practice times tables and understand the correlation of math concepts. Adding fractions with unlike denominators with our special Montessori fraction materials will be introduced. They are loving to mentor the first graders in the liquid measurement work. Students are continuously enjoying learning the map skills and their projects of Fundamental Needs of Humans. Additionally, they are researching planets and writing interesting facts.
Our Third year students continue to show responsibility and passion to enhance their critical thinking skills. Continuous practice of reading comprehension builds their critical thinking skills, interpreting and applying their knowledge on how to follow directions has planted a seed to polish their independence. They are becoming proficient in creating stories across different genres. Editing, proofreading, and ongoing grammar work are a continuous practice to improve their writing skills. Students have been introduced to the abstract multiplication and division concepts to solidify the concrete learning. Equivalent and reducing fractions have been introduced. Geometrical concept of measuring angles and use of protractor is developing their understanding for future studies. They have explored measuring units of length, width and capacity with Metric and US Customary units. 3rd graders will be proofreading 2nd graders descriptive writings, exercising their skills as well. This will be a fun learning experience for our children. Students have been introduced to the concepts of physical science with experiments. Children are demonstrating a high level of work in producing social sciences projects. Exploring the microscope planted a seed of becoming young scientists. Timeline of life is the limelight for our young scientists.
6-9 Team
Maria Montessori
Our First year students have been enthusiastic about their new descriptive writings. They are creative in producing their work and demonstrate the power of their intelligence in learning new concepts of word study. They are enjoying learning about adjectives and the noun family. Advanced concepts of money have been introduced and they are taking a step ahead in abstraction for addition and subtraction. Measuring in inches and half inches will serve as scaffolding for higher concepts. They had fun learning about liquid measurement with a math experiment. In the social sciences, animals and plant kingdom, physical science experiments and working with landforms are continuously building their knowledge. Building simple machines was fun.
Our Second year students are demonstrating a positive energy in understanding advanced concepts. The continuity of their hard work is shown in their desire to learn. They are creating sentences and applying their knowledge of all parts of speech. Exercises of building vocabulary are integrated in their writings with correct punctuation and spellings. Ongoing reading comprehension exercises will help them apply analytical skills. Students practiced with 2-digit multipliers and 4-digit multiplicands with the checkerboard. Word problems are enhancing their brain power. They are excited to practice times tables and understand the correlation of math concepts. Adding fractions with unlike denominators with our special Montessori fraction materials will be introduced. They are loving to mentor the first graders in the liquid measurement work. Students are continuously enjoying learning the map skills and their projects of Fundamental Needs of Humans. Additionally, they are researching planets and writing interesting facts.
Our Third year students continue to show responsibility and passion to enhance their critical thinking skills. Continuous practice of reading comprehension builds their critical thinking skills, interpreting and applying their knowledge on how to follow directions has planted a seed to polish their independence. They are becoming proficient in creating stories across different genres. Editing, proofreading, and ongoing grammar work are a continuous practice to improve their writing skills. Students have been introduced to the abstract multiplication and division concepts to solidify the concrete learning. Equivalent and reducing fractions have been introduced. Geometrical concept of measuring angles and use of protractor is developing their understanding for future studies. They have explored measuring units of length, width and capacity with Metric and US Customary units. 3rd graders will be proofreading 2nd graders descriptive writings, exercising their skills as well. This will be a fun learning experience for our children. Students have been introduced to the concepts of physical science with experiments. Children are demonstrating a high level of work in producing social sciences projects. Exploring the microscope planted a seed of becoming young scientists. Timeline of life is the limelight for our young scientists.
6-9 Team
Updates from 4th Grade
Fourth Grade English - Ms. Sameena Ansari
The lovable students are enhancing their vocabulary as they are reading books on challenges and learning about opportunities, options and ways to achieve their goals through dedication and hard work! They have been working on their reflections and are able to make predictions about the characters. Learners are motivated and ready to discuss the details of the book being read in the classroom to elucidate their thoughts on complexities of life. Word webs are being used to connect with the book and exemplify their perceptions about the realities of life.
Ms. Ashley 4th Grade English -
Hello Kindi families! I am aware that Ramadan is an important month for many Kindi families- Ramadan Mubarak! It is my wish that all students are able to continue with their academic successes. Fourth graders will finish reading Moon of Two Dark Horses by March 21st. There will be a final project in which students have an opportunity to complete during our English class periods, and the project instructions and rubric will be posted on Google classroom. If your child will be leaving early for vacation, please, send me an email to inform me, thank you. We will continue to have biweekly spelling and vocabulary tests, however, there will be no assigned homework.
Ms. Ashley 4th Grade Science -
Hello Kindi families! Our fourth grade scientists have been analyzing rocks and minerals. For example, students will observe the process of weathering and erosion, and make a model of rocks layers during our science lab experiments. Minerals refers to small amounts of elements that are found in many of the foods we eat. These elements also make up certain minerals that are found in rocks in Earth’s crust. Make sure to ask your child about what makes a mineral- a mineral. Enthusiastic students have even brought in some of their favorite rocks or minerals to share with the class!
4th Grade Math - Ms. Megan Mullin
Students have been hard at work in math. My class has recently finished the Geometry Unit. Students have recently learned skills such as measuring and drawing angles with protractors, classifying triangles, and finding lines of symmetry. Our next unit is Measurement. Students will be finding objects to relate to units, convert units such as pints to quarts, and compute with customary units.
4th Social Studies - Ms. Megan Mullin
Students have been busy in Social Studies! We have recently finished the Russia unit. We learned about Russia's culture, geography, and history including past rulers. Students studied the achievements of Catherine the Great and the history of the Berlin Wall, for example. We discussed and created a poster showing how people can preserve culture to keep it alive! Currently, we are studying Southwest Asia's geography, culture, and history. While learning about Mesopotamia, students were able to write their name in cuneiform! Next, we will study Africa and Ancient Egypt.
4th Grade English - Mrs. FasiczkaIn 4th grade, we are almost finished reading Number the Stars by Lois Lowry. The students will also complete their persuasive essays. Finally, we are going to continue our grammar skill practice with differentiating parts of speech and adverbs.
4th Grade Tech - Mrs. Fasiczka
4A are doing well on their typing skills as the semester continues. They have also begun coding and making their own mini-games through the Code.org program with Mr. M. Finally, we are continuing to utilize projects that help the students get to know the Google suite.
The lovable students are enhancing their vocabulary as they are reading books on challenges and learning about opportunities, options and ways to achieve their goals through dedication and hard work! They have been working on their reflections and are able to make predictions about the characters. Learners are motivated and ready to discuss the details of the book being read in the classroom to elucidate their thoughts on complexities of life. Word webs are being used to connect with the book and exemplify their perceptions about the realities of life.
Ms. Ashley 4th Grade English -
Hello Kindi families! I am aware that Ramadan is an important month for many Kindi families- Ramadan Mubarak! It is my wish that all students are able to continue with their academic successes. Fourth graders will finish reading Moon of Two Dark Horses by March 21st. There will be a final project in which students have an opportunity to complete during our English class periods, and the project instructions and rubric will be posted on Google classroom. If your child will be leaving early for vacation, please, send me an email to inform me, thank you. We will continue to have biweekly spelling and vocabulary tests, however, there will be no assigned homework.
Ms. Ashley 4th Grade Science -
Hello Kindi families! Our fourth grade scientists have been analyzing rocks and minerals. For example, students will observe the process of weathering and erosion, and make a model of rocks layers during our science lab experiments. Minerals refers to small amounts of elements that are found in many of the foods we eat. These elements also make up certain minerals that are found in rocks in Earth’s crust. Make sure to ask your child about what makes a mineral- a mineral. Enthusiastic students have even brought in some of their favorite rocks or minerals to share with the class!
4th Grade Math - Ms. Megan Mullin
Students have been hard at work in math. My class has recently finished the Geometry Unit. Students have recently learned skills such as measuring and drawing angles with protractors, classifying triangles, and finding lines of symmetry. Our next unit is Measurement. Students will be finding objects to relate to units, convert units such as pints to quarts, and compute with customary units.
4th Social Studies - Ms. Megan Mullin
Students have been busy in Social Studies! We have recently finished the Russia unit. We learned about Russia's culture, geography, and history including past rulers. Students studied the achievements of Catherine the Great and the history of the Berlin Wall, for example. We discussed and created a poster showing how people can preserve culture to keep it alive! Currently, we are studying Southwest Asia's geography, culture, and history. While learning about Mesopotamia, students were able to write their name in cuneiform! Next, we will study Africa and Ancient Egypt.
4th Grade English - Mrs. FasiczkaIn 4th grade, we are almost finished reading Number the Stars by Lois Lowry. The students will also complete their persuasive essays. Finally, we are going to continue our grammar skill practice with differentiating parts of speech and adverbs.
4th Grade Tech - Mrs. Fasiczka
4A are doing well on their typing skills as the semester continues. They have also begun coding and making their own mini-games through the Code.org program with Mr. M. Finally, we are continuing to utilize projects that help the students get to know the Google suite.
Happenings in the Science Room
Ms. Ella Honors Anatomy & Physiology -
We’ve had an exciting and engaging month in Honors Anatomy & Physiology, filled with hands-on activities and in-depth exploration of the human body. Here’s a look at what we’ve accomplished and what’s ahead!
Wrapping Up: The Skeletal System
We have officially completed our Skeletal System unit, where students learned about:
Bone structure and function
Bone remodeling and repair
Types of bones and joints
Disorders such as osteoporosis and arthritis
Students gained a solid understanding of how bones provide support, protection, and movement in coordination with the muscular system—which leads us to our next unit!
Currently Studying: The Muscular System
We have now moved on to the Muscular System, an exciting and essential unit that focuses on how the body moves and functions. Students are learning about:
Muscle Physiology & Contraction
Neuromuscular Junction – How motor neurons communicate with muscle fibers to initiate contraction.
Sliding Filament Theory – How myosin and actin filaments interact to produce movement.
ATP & Calcium’s Role – Understanding the biochemical energy processes behind muscle function.
Muscle Fatigue & Recovery – Exploring why muscles tire and how they regain strength.
Identifying Major Muscle Groups
Students are now learning to identify and understand the major muscles of the body, including:
• Head & Neck: Sternocleidomastoid, masseter, temporalis
• Torso: Pectoralis major, rectus abdominis, trapezius, latissimus dorsi
• Upper Limbs: Deltoid, biceps brachii, triceps brachii, flexor and extensor muscles of the forearm
• Lower Limbs: Gluteus maximus, quadriceps (rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, vastus medialis), hamstrings, gastrocnemius, soleus
Students will explore how these muscles work together, their origins and insertions, and how they contribute to everyday movements like walking, running, lifting, and even smiling!
Hands-On Activities & Projects
We believe in learning by doing! Students have been actively engaged in:
Building a Sarcomere Model – Students created their own representations of sarcomeres and myofilaments to visualize how muscles contract.
Interactive Muscle Contraction Demonstrations – Using physical models and kinesthetic activities, students acted out muscle fiber movements to reinforce learning.
Muscle Fatigue Experiment – Students conducted an experiment to measure how long their muscles could sustain contraction before tiring.
Identifying Muscles in Action – Through activities like stretching, resistance exercises, and movement tracking, students are learning which muscles are engaged in different exercises.
These hands-on activities help students visualize and internalize how the muscular system works, making complex concepts easier to grasp.
Next Up: The Nervous System
After completing the Muscular System, we will move into the Nervous System, where students will explore:
Structure & Function of Neurons – Understanding nerve cells and their role in communication.
Central vs. Peripheral Nervous System – Exploring how the brain, spinal cord, and nerves work together.
Neurotransmitters & Synapses – Learning how signals travel between neurons.
Reflexes & Reaction Time – Investigating how the body responds to stimuli.
Brain Regions & Functions – Understanding how different parts of the brain control body functions.
Exciting Lab Alert!
As part of our Nervous System Unit, students will participate in a Brain Dissection Lab! This hands-on experience will allow students to explore the structure of the brain, identify key regions, and observe real-life neuroanatomy up close. More details and permission slips will be sent home soon.
This will be an exciting and interactive unit, where students can truly see the nervous system in action!
Reminders & Announcements
Encourage students to review diagrams, key terms, and notes regularly.
Upcoming quizzes, assessments, and lab details—stay tuned for specific dates!
Questions? Feel free to reach out at [email protected].
Thank you for your continued support in making Anatomy & Physiology a fun and enriching experience!
Ms. Ella -7th Grade
We’ve had a fantastic month in 7th-grade Chemistry, filled with exciting topics and hands-on learning! Here’s a look at what we’ve been working on and what’s coming up next.
7(A) – Nomenclature & Chemical Reactions
Wrapping up: Nomenclature – Students have been mastering how to name chemical compounds, an essential skill for understanding reactions.
Next Up: Chemical Reactions & Balancing Equations – We’ll explore different types of chemical reactions and learn how to balance equations to follow the Law of Conservation of Mass.
Key Skills:
Identifying types of chemical reactions
Writing and balancing chemical equations
Understanding reactants and products
7(B) – Balancing Equations & Redox Reactions
Wrapping up: Balancing Equations – Students have been working hard to balance chemical reactions accurately.
Next Up: Oxidation-Reduction (Redox) Reactions – We’ll dive into how electrons are transferred in reactions and their real-world applications (like rusting and batteries!).
Lab Alert!: Students will be conducting a Redox Reaction Lab to observe oxidation and reduction in action. This hands-on experiment will reinforce key concepts and allow them to apply their knowledge in a fun and engaging way!
Reminders & Announcements
Encourage students to review their notes regularly and complete practice problems to strengthen their skills.
Upcoming quizzes and lab reports—stay tuned for dates!
Thank you for your continued support in making science exciting and engaging!
Ms. Ella’s 5th Grade Science Class
We’ve had an exciting month in Earth & Space Science, and I’m thrilled to share our progress with you.
What We’ve Accomplished
We finished our Earth Book and transitioned into our new unit: Astronomy & Space!
We started Chapter 1: Earth, Moon, and Sun and have completed:
• 1.1 – The Sky from Earth
• 1.2 – Earth in Space
We even made our own sundials to explore how the Sun’s position changes throughout the day!
What We’re Learning Now
We are currently working on:
1.3 – Gravity and Motion
1.4 – Phases and Eclipses
Students are discovering how gravity shapes our universe and how the positions of the Earth, Moon, and Sun create moon phases and eclipses. Hands-on activities and visual demonstrations will help reinforce these concepts!
What’s Next?
In the coming weeks, we will continue exploring the Moon’s phases and discuss solar and lunar eclipses. We will also have some interactive activities to help students understand these celestial events.
Reminders & Announcements
Encourage students to review their notes and engage in discussions at home!
Keep an eye out for upcoming quizzes and projects—we’ll keep you posted on dates.
Ms. Jameel -
This month in 6th grade, students have been exploring the world of genetics and how genes influence traits. They’ve been working with Punnett squares to predict the inheritance of traits, from eye color to plant height. Students are now able to understand how traits are passed down from parents to offspring and how genetic variation leads to differences within species. This has been a hands-on and interactive experience, with students making predictions and learning about dominant and recessive alleles. It's been an incredible start to understanding the principles of heredity!
Meanwhile, our 9th graders have been diving into the fascinating world of plant classification and learning about the differences between nonvascular and vascular plants. It’s been an exciting journey into the plant kingdom as we've explored how plants are classified into various phyla and what makes each group unique.
Our students have learned that plants are classified based on the presence or absence of vascular tissue – which is crucial for transporting water and nutrients throughout the plant. Nonvascular plants, like mosses, lack these tissues and are generally smaller and found in damp environments. Vascular plants, such as ferns and flowering plants, have a specialized system of vessels (xylem and phloem) that allow them to grow taller and thrive in a wide range of habitats.
Through hands-on activities, students have had the opportunity to identify real-life plants from both groups, seeing firsthand how these plants are structured and classified. These lab activities were not only informative but also a lot of fun!
In another exciting lab, our students learned how to classify plants as either monocots or dicots based on their seed structure. The key difference lies in the number of seed leaves, or cotyledons: monocots have one cotyledon, while dicots have two. Students observed the distinct characteristics of each type, from leaf veins to flower parts, and used this information to categorize different plants into the right group. It's always amazing to see how the smallest details, like the number of cotyledons, can tell us so much about a plant's identity!
We’ve had an exciting and engaging month in Honors Anatomy & Physiology, filled with hands-on activities and in-depth exploration of the human body. Here’s a look at what we’ve accomplished and what’s ahead!
Wrapping Up: The Skeletal System
We have officially completed our Skeletal System unit, where students learned about:
Bone structure and function
Bone remodeling and repair
Types of bones and joints
Disorders such as osteoporosis and arthritis
Students gained a solid understanding of how bones provide support, protection, and movement in coordination with the muscular system—which leads us to our next unit!
Currently Studying: The Muscular System
We have now moved on to the Muscular System, an exciting and essential unit that focuses on how the body moves and functions. Students are learning about:
Muscle Physiology & Contraction
Neuromuscular Junction – How motor neurons communicate with muscle fibers to initiate contraction.
Sliding Filament Theory – How myosin and actin filaments interact to produce movement.
ATP & Calcium’s Role – Understanding the biochemical energy processes behind muscle function.
Muscle Fatigue & Recovery – Exploring why muscles tire and how they regain strength.
Identifying Major Muscle Groups
Students are now learning to identify and understand the major muscles of the body, including:
• Head & Neck: Sternocleidomastoid, masseter, temporalis
• Torso: Pectoralis major, rectus abdominis, trapezius, latissimus dorsi
• Upper Limbs: Deltoid, biceps brachii, triceps brachii, flexor and extensor muscles of the forearm
• Lower Limbs: Gluteus maximus, quadriceps (rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, vastus medialis), hamstrings, gastrocnemius, soleus
Students will explore how these muscles work together, their origins and insertions, and how they contribute to everyday movements like walking, running, lifting, and even smiling!
Hands-On Activities & Projects
We believe in learning by doing! Students have been actively engaged in:
Building a Sarcomere Model – Students created their own representations of sarcomeres and myofilaments to visualize how muscles contract.
Interactive Muscle Contraction Demonstrations – Using physical models and kinesthetic activities, students acted out muscle fiber movements to reinforce learning.
Muscle Fatigue Experiment – Students conducted an experiment to measure how long their muscles could sustain contraction before tiring.
Identifying Muscles in Action – Through activities like stretching, resistance exercises, and movement tracking, students are learning which muscles are engaged in different exercises.
These hands-on activities help students visualize and internalize how the muscular system works, making complex concepts easier to grasp.
Next Up: The Nervous System
After completing the Muscular System, we will move into the Nervous System, where students will explore:
Structure & Function of Neurons – Understanding nerve cells and their role in communication.
Central vs. Peripheral Nervous System – Exploring how the brain, spinal cord, and nerves work together.
Neurotransmitters & Synapses – Learning how signals travel between neurons.
Reflexes & Reaction Time – Investigating how the body responds to stimuli.
Brain Regions & Functions – Understanding how different parts of the brain control body functions.
Exciting Lab Alert!
As part of our Nervous System Unit, students will participate in a Brain Dissection Lab! This hands-on experience will allow students to explore the structure of the brain, identify key regions, and observe real-life neuroanatomy up close. More details and permission slips will be sent home soon.
This will be an exciting and interactive unit, where students can truly see the nervous system in action!
Reminders & Announcements
Encourage students to review diagrams, key terms, and notes regularly.
Upcoming quizzes, assessments, and lab details—stay tuned for specific dates!
Questions? Feel free to reach out at [email protected].
Thank you for your continued support in making Anatomy & Physiology a fun and enriching experience!
Ms. Ella -7th Grade
We’ve had a fantastic month in 7th-grade Chemistry, filled with exciting topics and hands-on learning! Here’s a look at what we’ve been working on and what’s coming up next.
7(A) – Nomenclature & Chemical Reactions
Wrapping up: Nomenclature – Students have been mastering how to name chemical compounds, an essential skill for understanding reactions.
Next Up: Chemical Reactions & Balancing Equations – We’ll explore different types of chemical reactions and learn how to balance equations to follow the Law of Conservation of Mass.
Key Skills:
Identifying types of chemical reactions
Writing and balancing chemical equations
Understanding reactants and products
7(B) – Balancing Equations & Redox Reactions
Wrapping up: Balancing Equations – Students have been working hard to balance chemical reactions accurately.
Next Up: Oxidation-Reduction (Redox) Reactions – We’ll dive into how electrons are transferred in reactions and their real-world applications (like rusting and batteries!).
Lab Alert!: Students will be conducting a Redox Reaction Lab to observe oxidation and reduction in action. This hands-on experiment will reinforce key concepts and allow them to apply their knowledge in a fun and engaging way!
Reminders & Announcements
Encourage students to review their notes regularly and complete practice problems to strengthen their skills.
Upcoming quizzes and lab reports—stay tuned for dates!
Thank you for your continued support in making science exciting and engaging!
Ms. Ella’s 5th Grade Science Class
We’ve had an exciting month in Earth & Space Science, and I’m thrilled to share our progress with you.
What We’ve Accomplished
We finished our Earth Book and transitioned into our new unit: Astronomy & Space!
We started Chapter 1: Earth, Moon, and Sun and have completed:
• 1.1 – The Sky from Earth
• 1.2 – Earth in Space
We even made our own sundials to explore how the Sun’s position changes throughout the day!
What We’re Learning Now
We are currently working on:
1.3 – Gravity and Motion
1.4 – Phases and Eclipses
Students are discovering how gravity shapes our universe and how the positions of the Earth, Moon, and Sun create moon phases and eclipses. Hands-on activities and visual demonstrations will help reinforce these concepts!
What’s Next?
In the coming weeks, we will continue exploring the Moon’s phases and discuss solar and lunar eclipses. We will also have some interactive activities to help students understand these celestial events.
Reminders & Announcements
Encourage students to review their notes and engage in discussions at home!
Keep an eye out for upcoming quizzes and projects—we’ll keep you posted on dates.
Ms. Jameel -
This month in 6th grade, students have been exploring the world of genetics and how genes influence traits. They’ve been working with Punnett squares to predict the inheritance of traits, from eye color to plant height. Students are now able to understand how traits are passed down from parents to offspring and how genetic variation leads to differences within species. This has been a hands-on and interactive experience, with students making predictions and learning about dominant and recessive alleles. It's been an incredible start to understanding the principles of heredity!
Meanwhile, our 9th graders have been diving into the fascinating world of plant classification and learning about the differences between nonvascular and vascular plants. It’s been an exciting journey into the plant kingdom as we've explored how plants are classified into various phyla and what makes each group unique.
Our students have learned that plants are classified based on the presence or absence of vascular tissue – which is crucial for transporting water and nutrients throughout the plant. Nonvascular plants, like mosses, lack these tissues and are generally smaller and found in damp environments. Vascular plants, such as ferns and flowering plants, have a specialized system of vessels (xylem and phloem) that allow them to grow taller and thrive in a wide range of habitats.
Through hands-on activities, students have had the opportunity to identify real-life plants from both groups, seeing firsthand how these plants are structured and classified. These lab activities were not only informative but also a lot of fun!
In another exciting lab, our students learned how to classify plants as either monocots or dicots based on their seed structure. The key difference lies in the number of seed leaves, or cotyledons: monocots have one cotyledon, while dicots have two. Students observed the distinct characteristics of each type, from leaf veins to flower parts, and used this information to categorize different plants into the right group. It's always amazing to see how the smallest details, like the number of cotyledons, can tell us so much about a plant's identity!
News from our Middle/High School
Ms. Fasiczka English -
6th Grade EnglishIn 6th grade we are finishing up The Lightning Thief. The students will also finish persuasive essays this month and start a literary analysis essay. We will also start reading our next novel, The Long Walk to Water, this month.
7th Grade EnglishSeventh graders finished reading American Born Chinese and completed a comic-book project. We also reviewed ethos, pathos and logos and began our persuasive essay writing. Finally, students will start reading Chasing Lincoln’s Killer later this month.
Ms. Ashley 5th Grade English -
Fifth grade English students created a project in which they examined the cross continental, enduring friendship formed between two students in the book, I Will Always Write Back. Additionally, we have finished our rehearsal for the adapted movie Esperanza Rising. Many of our fifth grade students spent hours memorizing their lines. Thank you to all students who contributed by bringing in props, writing the script, acting and directing. Next, we will work on the writing process while writing a persuasive essay. The essay will be due on Monday, March 17th.
Dr. Mark Jones -
Eighth graders have spent the month of March immersed in the gritty Victorian environs of Charles Dickens’s Great Expectations. One of Dickens’s most exquisite novels–and also a fine model of a coming-of-age narrative, Great Expectations has given the students an opportunity to think about class relations in nineteenth-century London and what it might mean to behave genuinely as a gentleman or gentlewoman. We’ve seen Dickens’s story challenge some ways of thinking about such matters as societal values and charity. Just this week, we finally reached the chapter in which the young man Pip’s benefactor reveals himself–a moment that certainly shakes his world, and, it is to be hoped, our coming class discussions as well!
Ninth grade Honors English students have recently finished reading Emily Brontë’s masterful novel Wuthering Heights. We have spent most of February ranging the Yorkshire moors (alas, only in our imaginations) and trying to come to terms with the strange characters who haunt them. The students are presently working through some recent approaches to the novel as they prepare to write their own critical essays on the novel. Next week, we will also take up Shakespeare’s As You Like It–a delightful “green-world” comedy that couldn’t be better suited for the approach (we hope) of spring weather.
In Honors American Literature, the sophomores have finished reading Ellison’s Invisible Man and are ready to do some critical writing about the novel. During the last week, we have also explored some of the poetic works of Ellison’s great contemporary, the (Chicago-based) poet Gwendolyn Brooks. Though best known for her wonderful short poem “We Real Cool,” which the students also read, we took two class periods to work closely with one of her greatest works, a complex meditation on the lynching of Emmett Till titled “A Bronzeville Mother Loiters in Mississippi. Meanwhile, A Mississippi Mother Burns Bacon.” On the horizon is another great coming-of age narrative, Mark Twain’s The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.”
Having finished reading Hamlet and working through some contemporary theoretical perspectives on the tragedy, the AP students are gearing up to write a critical paper of their own engaging the play. In preparation for our next object of study, Joe Sacco’s graphic novel Palestine, the students have read Mary Louise Pratt’s “Arts of the Contact Zone” and are currently working through Michel Foucault’s “Panopticism,” both works that will furnish them a critical vocabulary for engaging with Palestine in class discussion and in writing. I look forward to studying this powerful work of comics journalism with the students during the coming weeks.
Ms. Kayla Beck -
5th Grade
Students have been exploring the novel Holes and are nearly finished with this novel. As part of our project, students are completing a Tic-Tac-Toe-style activity, where they work through three mini-projects related to the story. Once the projects are completed, we will be showcasing their work by creating a class website dedicated to Holes.
In addition to the novel, students have been learning about active and passive voice, as well as parallel structure in writing. We are also currently working through Unit 11 of the Sadlier Vocabulary Workshop.
I have also created a middle school reading list on Google Classroom, which includes book recommendations for students in 5th through 7th grade. Students are encouraged to browse the list and even add their own recommendations for others.
6th Grade
Students have been reading A Long Walk to Water, exploring the history of Sudan, the experiences of the Lost Boys of Sudan, the role of women in Sudan, and the Dinka and Nuer tribes. During this unit, students will learn how to evaluate credible sources and practice paraphrasing information.
In writing, students have been focusing on creating parallel sentences, understanding the difference between active and passive voice, and eliminating second-person usage.
Looking ahead, we will continue our discussion of A Long Walk to Water and watch a documentary about the Lost Boys to deepen our understanding of their journey.
I’ve also compiled a reading list for middle school students on Google Classroom. Students from my 5th, 6th, and 7th-grade classes are encouraged to browse the book recommendations and even contribute their own suggestions.
7th Grade
Students are more than midway through the novel, Monster. Students have been discussing different social classes, stereotypes, and the judicial system. Students have been working on gathering credible sources for their research papers and creating an annotated bibliography.
Next, we will start drafting our research papers as well as have more discussions on Monster.
I have also made reading lists for middle school students that are on Google Classroom. Students from my 5th grade class, 6th grade class, and 7th grade class are encouraged to look at some book recommendations as well as add to this reading list.
Ms. Sameena Ansari -
Fifth Grade English
The students are learning new things about characters and their experiences and relating them with their own stories! They have been taught to read silently so that they can understand the meaning of the sentences on their own. They have been expanding sentences and sharing their experiences in the classroom to show their understanding of what the characters are thinking!
The curiosity is making them excited to learn the mystery in the book as they are going to continue reading to get to the secret.
The energetic learners are learning to work as a team to make their reflections meaningful and presentable! They are creating models to show their logical reasoning and sharing the truth behind the characters’ choice to prove their point.
Sixth Grade English
The adorable students are reading and writing to show their appreciation and understanding of the plot, theme, conflict, resolution and sequence of the events!
They have been learning about prepositions and how to use them in their writing to create amazing text that will help them to be better writers! They have created sentences and presented on Holy month of Ramadan to celebrate and show their talent. Furthermore, they are learning to identify linking verbs and how they make the text relevant.
Additionally, they have created unique models to relate with the story that they read in the classroom to enhance their readability. The beaming learners are progressing and shining as they are learning to succeed in their endeavors!
Seventh Grade Creative Writing
The creative students are writing with enthusiasm and presenting confidently as they are blooming and becoming artistic in creating imaginative characters who are different and dynamic! As expected, they presented amazingly on Ramadan and their responses were fantastic.
Furthermore, they have been working on gestures and the expressions were great as they thought about the positivity that makes them happy!
Additionally, they are working on an imaginary concept where they have to write about their perceptions and actions to show how they can create fictional situations and how they solve the problems that they encounter bravely!
Ms. Megan Mullin 7th Grade ELA -
We have been busy in ELA! We finished reading the inspirational novel: We Beat the Streets. During our novel study, students were discussion leaders. They were tasked with choosing important quotes to talk about and asking high level questions to the class, for example. We also focused on essential questions throughout the novel such as: how does your environment influence you? They will finish their persuasive essay this week. Besides learning persuasive writing skills recently, we practiced how to analyze symbols, write a thematic statement, identify themes, and how to use semicolons and colons. Next, we will continue our journey in learning new vocabulary, skills, and elevating writing. The novel coming up is Bomb: The Race to Build-and-Steal the World's Most Dangerous Weapon.
5th Grade Study Skills - Mr. Daniel Aukst
Students began the month with a lesson on the process of writing. We discussed the importance of following a standard writing process. It includes a proper heading, the format of an introduction paragraph, how the introduction paragraph connects to the body paragraphs, and how to write a conclusion. We then moved on to a lesson on test anxiety. It included what it is and how to reduce test anxiety. Finally, we began the life skills section of the course. It included work on doing the little thing, changing your mindset, and evaluating and discussing what success is.
6th Grade EnglishIn 6th grade we are finishing up The Lightning Thief. The students will also finish persuasive essays this month and start a literary analysis essay. We will also start reading our next novel, The Long Walk to Water, this month.
7th Grade EnglishSeventh graders finished reading American Born Chinese and completed a comic-book project. We also reviewed ethos, pathos and logos and began our persuasive essay writing. Finally, students will start reading Chasing Lincoln’s Killer later this month.
Ms. Ashley 5th Grade English -
Fifth grade English students created a project in which they examined the cross continental, enduring friendship formed between two students in the book, I Will Always Write Back. Additionally, we have finished our rehearsal for the adapted movie Esperanza Rising. Many of our fifth grade students spent hours memorizing their lines. Thank you to all students who contributed by bringing in props, writing the script, acting and directing. Next, we will work on the writing process while writing a persuasive essay. The essay will be due on Monday, March 17th.
Dr. Mark Jones -
Eighth graders have spent the month of March immersed in the gritty Victorian environs of Charles Dickens’s Great Expectations. One of Dickens’s most exquisite novels–and also a fine model of a coming-of-age narrative, Great Expectations has given the students an opportunity to think about class relations in nineteenth-century London and what it might mean to behave genuinely as a gentleman or gentlewoman. We’ve seen Dickens’s story challenge some ways of thinking about such matters as societal values and charity. Just this week, we finally reached the chapter in which the young man Pip’s benefactor reveals himself–a moment that certainly shakes his world, and, it is to be hoped, our coming class discussions as well!
Ninth grade Honors English students have recently finished reading Emily Brontë’s masterful novel Wuthering Heights. We have spent most of February ranging the Yorkshire moors (alas, only in our imaginations) and trying to come to terms with the strange characters who haunt them. The students are presently working through some recent approaches to the novel as they prepare to write their own critical essays on the novel. Next week, we will also take up Shakespeare’s As You Like It–a delightful “green-world” comedy that couldn’t be better suited for the approach (we hope) of spring weather.
In Honors American Literature, the sophomores have finished reading Ellison’s Invisible Man and are ready to do some critical writing about the novel. During the last week, we have also explored some of the poetic works of Ellison’s great contemporary, the (Chicago-based) poet Gwendolyn Brooks. Though best known for her wonderful short poem “We Real Cool,” which the students also read, we took two class periods to work closely with one of her greatest works, a complex meditation on the lynching of Emmett Till titled “A Bronzeville Mother Loiters in Mississippi. Meanwhile, A Mississippi Mother Burns Bacon.” On the horizon is another great coming-of age narrative, Mark Twain’s The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.”
Having finished reading Hamlet and working through some contemporary theoretical perspectives on the tragedy, the AP students are gearing up to write a critical paper of their own engaging the play. In preparation for our next object of study, Joe Sacco’s graphic novel Palestine, the students have read Mary Louise Pratt’s “Arts of the Contact Zone” and are currently working through Michel Foucault’s “Panopticism,” both works that will furnish them a critical vocabulary for engaging with Palestine in class discussion and in writing. I look forward to studying this powerful work of comics journalism with the students during the coming weeks.
Ms. Kayla Beck -
5th Grade
Students have been exploring the novel Holes and are nearly finished with this novel. As part of our project, students are completing a Tic-Tac-Toe-style activity, where they work through three mini-projects related to the story. Once the projects are completed, we will be showcasing their work by creating a class website dedicated to Holes.
In addition to the novel, students have been learning about active and passive voice, as well as parallel structure in writing. We are also currently working through Unit 11 of the Sadlier Vocabulary Workshop.
I have also created a middle school reading list on Google Classroom, which includes book recommendations for students in 5th through 7th grade. Students are encouraged to browse the list and even add their own recommendations for others.
6th Grade
Students have been reading A Long Walk to Water, exploring the history of Sudan, the experiences of the Lost Boys of Sudan, the role of women in Sudan, and the Dinka and Nuer tribes. During this unit, students will learn how to evaluate credible sources and practice paraphrasing information.
In writing, students have been focusing on creating parallel sentences, understanding the difference between active and passive voice, and eliminating second-person usage.
Looking ahead, we will continue our discussion of A Long Walk to Water and watch a documentary about the Lost Boys to deepen our understanding of their journey.
I’ve also compiled a reading list for middle school students on Google Classroom. Students from my 5th, 6th, and 7th-grade classes are encouraged to browse the book recommendations and even contribute their own suggestions.
7th Grade
Students are more than midway through the novel, Monster. Students have been discussing different social classes, stereotypes, and the judicial system. Students have been working on gathering credible sources for their research papers and creating an annotated bibliography.
Next, we will start drafting our research papers as well as have more discussions on Monster.
I have also made reading lists for middle school students that are on Google Classroom. Students from my 5th grade class, 6th grade class, and 7th grade class are encouraged to look at some book recommendations as well as add to this reading list.
Ms. Sameena Ansari -
Fifth Grade English
The students are learning new things about characters and their experiences and relating them with their own stories! They have been taught to read silently so that they can understand the meaning of the sentences on their own. They have been expanding sentences and sharing their experiences in the classroom to show their understanding of what the characters are thinking!
The curiosity is making them excited to learn the mystery in the book as they are going to continue reading to get to the secret.
The energetic learners are learning to work as a team to make their reflections meaningful and presentable! They are creating models to show their logical reasoning and sharing the truth behind the characters’ choice to prove their point.
Sixth Grade English
The adorable students are reading and writing to show their appreciation and understanding of the plot, theme, conflict, resolution and sequence of the events!
They have been learning about prepositions and how to use them in their writing to create amazing text that will help them to be better writers! They have created sentences and presented on Holy month of Ramadan to celebrate and show their talent. Furthermore, they are learning to identify linking verbs and how they make the text relevant.
Additionally, they have created unique models to relate with the story that they read in the classroom to enhance their readability. The beaming learners are progressing and shining as they are learning to succeed in their endeavors!
Seventh Grade Creative Writing
The creative students are writing with enthusiasm and presenting confidently as they are blooming and becoming artistic in creating imaginative characters who are different and dynamic! As expected, they presented amazingly on Ramadan and their responses were fantastic.
Furthermore, they have been working on gestures and the expressions were great as they thought about the positivity that makes them happy!
Additionally, they are working on an imaginary concept where they have to write about their perceptions and actions to show how they can create fictional situations and how they solve the problems that they encounter bravely!
Ms. Megan Mullin 7th Grade ELA -
We have been busy in ELA! We finished reading the inspirational novel: We Beat the Streets. During our novel study, students were discussion leaders. They were tasked with choosing important quotes to talk about and asking high level questions to the class, for example. We also focused on essential questions throughout the novel such as: how does your environment influence you? They will finish their persuasive essay this week. Besides learning persuasive writing skills recently, we practiced how to analyze symbols, write a thematic statement, identify themes, and how to use semicolons and colons. Next, we will continue our journey in learning new vocabulary, skills, and elevating writing. The novel coming up is Bomb: The Race to Build-and-Steal the World's Most Dangerous Weapon.
5th Grade Study Skills - Mr. Daniel Aukst
Students began the month with a lesson on the process of writing. We discussed the importance of following a standard writing process. It includes a proper heading, the format of an introduction paragraph, how the introduction paragraph connects to the body paragraphs, and how to write a conclusion. We then moved on to a lesson on test anxiety. It included what it is and how to reduce test anxiety. Finally, we began the life skills section of the course. It included work on doing the little thing, changing your mindset, and evaluating and discussing what success is.
Updates From Social Studies
AP US History - Mr. Sevim Memisovski
We’ve been hard at work in AP US History. We just finished our units on the Great Depression and World War II. We will be starting our next LEQ which focuses on comparing Post-WWI and Post-WWII Economies in the United States, before finishing our final units of study on the Cold War and Modern Era in American History.
AP Microeconomics - Mr. Sevim Memisovski
Our AP Micro students have been hard at work in class exploring the Costs of Production in the Short and Long Run. We’re also in the midst of our units on the “Theory of the Firm”, better known as the Market Structures. Students just completed our unit on Perfect Competition and will soon be learning about Monopolies, Oligopolies, and Monopolistic Competition!
5th Grade Ancient World History - Mr. Daniel Aukst
We have completed the last section on Ancient Greece. The section included the first and second Greco-Persian Wars, the Peloponnesian Wars, the unification of Greece, and Alexander the Great. In addition, students learned about the two major city-states of Athens and Sparta. The section concluded with the major achievements of Ancient Greece. We began the Roman Republic origin by studying the myth vs. reality of how the Roman people began. We then began to learn the social and political structure of the Roman Republic. Finally, there were several individual and small group assignments students completed.
7th Grade United States History - Mr. Daniel Aukst
The month began with students learning about the Gilded Age. In the first section, students learned the characteristics of the Gilded Age, the Presidents, urbanization, and immigration. In addition, they completed an urbanization simulation. In section two, students learned about inventions, the major Robber Barons/Captains of Industries, unions and strikes, political machines, and the transcontinental railroad. In addition, students did a section on Women’s Rights and the Indian Wars independently. Each section included supporting work and worksheets. The students also completed a DBQ on Jacob Riis photography during the Gilded Age.
8th Grade Modern World History - Mr. Daniel Aukst
Students spent the month completing World War I. We started the month learning about America entering the war and the USA’s impact on the war. It included the Cantigny, Battle of Belleau Wood, and the Meuse–Argonne offensive. The section ended with the Treaty of Versailles and Wilson’s 14 Points. Next, students worked on a unit covering the 1920s and the global depression between the wars. Students completed a simulation focused on Germany’s economy during this time period. Each topic included supporting work, worksheets, and a DBQ. Finally, the students worked on ELT initiatives, which included reading to preschoolers and hosting a hot chocolate and donut fundraiser.
9th Grade AP World History - Mr. Daniel Aukst
Students spent the month learning about the global depression and World War II. We started the month learning about the aftermath of the Treaty of Versailles and the economic downturn as a result of WWI. We then covered the causes of WWII and the politics and ideologies of world countries. After that, we moved onto the actual war and covered all the major battles and events in Europe and the Pacific. We ended the month starting a new unit on the Cold War and Decolonization. In addition, the students completed a DBQ on WWII, LEQ on WWII, and ended the month with a test.
6th Grade Social Studies - Ms. Megan Mullin
Students have been hard at work in Social Studies. Students were assigned a country in Southwest Asia to research. They discovered the country's climate, tourist attractions, culture, and geography, for example. We are currently learning about the history, culture, economy, and geography of Sub-Saharan Africa. Students have studied how colonialism affects the people of the country, its physical geography, and its long lasting impact today. Next, we will study how South Sudan became a country and finish the Sub-Saharan Unit with the geography, current events, and culture of South Africa.
We’ve been hard at work in AP US History. We just finished our units on the Great Depression and World War II. We will be starting our next LEQ which focuses on comparing Post-WWI and Post-WWII Economies in the United States, before finishing our final units of study on the Cold War and Modern Era in American History.
AP Microeconomics - Mr. Sevim Memisovski
Our AP Micro students have been hard at work in class exploring the Costs of Production in the Short and Long Run. We’re also in the midst of our units on the “Theory of the Firm”, better known as the Market Structures. Students just completed our unit on Perfect Competition and will soon be learning about Monopolies, Oligopolies, and Monopolistic Competition!
5th Grade Ancient World History - Mr. Daniel Aukst
We have completed the last section on Ancient Greece. The section included the first and second Greco-Persian Wars, the Peloponnesian Wars, the unification of Greece, and Alexander the Great. In addition, students learned about the two major city-states of Athens and Sparta. The section concluded with the major achievements of Ancient Greece. We began the Roman Republic origin by studying the myth vs. reality of how the Roman people began. We then began to learn the social and political structure of the Roman Republic. Finally, there were several individual and small group assignments students completed.
7th Grade United States History - Mr. Daniel Aukst
The month began with students learning about the Gilded Age. In the first section, students learned the characteristics of the Gilded Age, the Presidents, urbanization, and immigration. In addition, they completed an urbanization simulation. In section two, students learned about inventions, the major Robber Barons/Captains of Industries, unions and strikes, political machines, and the transcontinental railroad. In addition, students did a section on Women’s Rights and the Indian Wars independently. Each section included supporting work and worksheets. The students also completed a DBQ on Jacob Riis photography during the Gilded Age.
8th Grade Modern World History - Mr. Daniel Aukst
Students spent the month completing World War I. We started the month learning about America entering the war and the USA’s impact on the war. It included the Cantigny, Battle of Belleau Wood, and the Meuse–Argonne offensive. The section ended with the Treaty of Versailles and Wilson’s 14 Points. Next, students worked on a unit covering the 1920s and the global depression between the wars. Students completed a simulation focused on Germany’s economy during this time period. Each topic included supporting work, worksheets, and a DBQ. Finally, the students worked on ELT initiatives, which included reading to preschoolers and hosting a hot chocolate and donut fundraiser.
9th Grade AP World History - Mr. Daniel Aukst
Students spent the month learning about the global depression and World War II. We started the month learning about the aftermath of the Treaty of Versailles and the economic downturn as a result of WWI. We then covered the causes of WWII and the politics and ideologies of world countries. After that, we moved onto the actual war and covered all the major battles and events in Europe and the Pacific. We ended the month starting a new unit on the Cold War and Decolonization. In addition, the students completed a DBQ on WWII, LEQ on WWII, and ended the month with a test.
6th Grade Social Studies - Ms. Megan Mullin
Students have been hard at work in Social Studies. Students were assigned a country in Southwest Asia to research. They discovered the country's climate, tourist attractions, culture, and geography, for example. We are currently learning about the history, culture, economy, and geography of Sub-Saharan Africa. Students have studied how colonialism affects the people of the country, its physical geography, and its long lasting impact today. Next, we will study how South Sudan became a country and finish the Sub-Saharan Unit with the geography, current events, and culture of South Africa.
Updates from Gym
As the weather continues to fluctuate from cold to the occasional warm days, students are in anticipation for outdoor activities. All the sports that students enjoyed through the winter season will now be moving outside soon where there’s much more space, fresh air and an overall good feel.
Scavenger hunt is on the horizon for grades 1st-3rd, while elementary and middle schoolers wrap up basketball, which has been extremely competitive, especially the 4th and 5th graders. High school students continue their health curriculum while engaging in more niche sports like table tennis ultimate frisbee and the likes.
Scavenger hunt is on the horizon for grades 1st-3rd, while elementary and middle schoolers wrap up basketball, which has been extremely competitive, especially the 4th and 5th graders. High school students continue their health curriculum while engaging in more niche sports like table tennis ultimate frisbee and the likes.
Updates from our spanish classroom
Spanish with Maestra Maria Herrero:
¡Hola Familias!
I want to share with you the work my Spanish students have done during the month of February.
In the 3-6 program, we finished the Winter Unit by doing some review activities and watching the video "El invierno con Timbo" (Winter with Timbo); all the students loved it and wanted to watch it over and over again. Additionally, we worked with the book "La fiesta de San Valentín" (The Valentine's Day Party), where we learned animal vocabulary and the expression "Yo tengo" (I have). We also played the Lego color game, practiced counting up to 20 with little chicks, worked on family vocabulary, and played Animal Yoga.
The 1st-grade students also worked on the "El invierno con Timbo" (Winter with Timbo) unit, but in more depth, focusing on writing and reading, learning about the seasons, body parts, and winter clothing. They also worked on the expression "Yo tengo" (I have) with the book about the animal party. Currently, we are focusing on farm animals with the song "El tío Ramón" (Uncle Ramón), practicing the expression "Hay" (There is/There are). We will finish the unit with a small book that the students will take home with the lyrics of the song.
The 2nd-grade students started a project that we have been working on for most of the month: Animals. We learned the names of nine animals and started describing them using and repeating frequently used words such as "Tiene" (Has), "es de color" (is the color), and "puede" (can). Additionally, they learned four action verbs (swim, run, jump, and fly) and reviewed big, medium, and small. After introducing all this, we did two activities: Veo-veo (I Spy), where they read descriptions of animals and others had to guess which animal it was, and Tic-Tac-Toe, where they practiced speaking in Spanish and had to describe the animals before marking each square. This has been a very enriching and fun unit. Now we are working on a project about doctors and patients focusing on body parts, using the expressions "me duele" (it hurts) or "no me duele" (it doesn’t hurt).
The 3rd-grade students finished creating their story with the "La caja de historias" (The Story Box) cards about a horse that wants a balloon. We have been working with the story "Tito el pingüino" (Tito the Penguin). In this story, we practice high-frequency words such as "tiene" (has), "come" (eats), "agarra" (grabs), "tiene hambre" (is hungry), "no puede"(can’t), "quiere" (wants), "dice" (says), and "va" (goes). With the penguin story, we also worked on pets. Additionally, we did different activities such as reading comprehension questions with yoga poses, true or false questions, and we are working on a mini-book of the story where they have to read, complete words, and draw.
The 4th-grade students have been focused on learning Unit 3, which we just finished. We worked on the months, days of the week, "hoy" (today), "mañana" (tomorrow), and "ayer" (yesterday), "esta semana" (this week) and "la próxima semana" (next week), places in the city, and the verb "ir" (to go) in the present tense: "Yo voy" (I go), "tú vas" (you go), and "él/ella/usted va" (he/she/you (formal) go). Additionally, on some Fridays, we played Blooket with the vocabulary and grammar from Unit 3—students love it!
The 5th-grade students are still working on Unit 9. They have learned different adjectives such as "fantástica" (fantastic), "aburrida" (boring), "divertida" (fun), "fácil" (easy), "difícil" (difficult), "importante" (important), "interesante"(interesting), and "terrible" (terrible). They can use these adjectives to describe school subjects from the first lesson of this unit. We worked on gender and number agreement between nouns and adjectives. Additionally, we worked on a project about Hispanic-origin artists to practice the concepts "me gusta" (I like), "te gusta" (you like), "le gusta"(he/she/you (formal) like(s)), "me encanta" (I love), "te encanta" (you love), and "le encanta" (he/she/you (formal) love(s)) in both singular and plural forms. At the end of the project, students shared their own artworks with their classmates. We also had a party before the start of Ramadan, as the students had earned enough "puntos de piñata"(piñata points) for their good work and behavior.
Wishing you all a great start to Ramadan.
Spanish with Maestra Maria Mendez:
3rd Grade
Students enjoy expressing themselves through games and activities in the classroom. They are able to say how they feel, talk about the weather and also talk about the date and days of the week. We will be using games as a way to learn and affirm new vocabulary. They can talk about different activities they do during the day at home and/or at school.
5th Grade
Students have learned how to talk about their favorite subjects and activities. They read about Puerto Rico as one of the places where Spanish is spoken, they learned about its culture, personalities and more. We have learned different ways to greet people and how to reply. We started Unit 10 and students have been learning vocabulary about the family and all the members. They will complete their own family tree.
6th Grade
Students have been learning about the verb to have (tener) and have to (tener que) and the use in different situations. We have also learned frequency expressions and we have worked on their daily activities and schedules. Also what they have to do in every class, like pay attention, take notes, listen to the teacher, among others. With “telehistorias”, they improve their listening skills. We are reviewing the time and how to tell the time. We are currently reviewing Unit 2, Lesson 1, talking about schedules and daily routines.
7th Grade
Students have been learning vocabulary to go shopping, learning the different types of clothing they can wear in the different seasons and they have reviewed the colors. Students have learned to express how much something costs. They have been learning how to say what somebody is wearing. Besides all of these, they completed an online store project and they showed their creativity and knowledge in Spanish language. Good job!
8th Grade
Unit 7 is about Argentina, and students have learned about its culture, traditions and famous people. In Lesson 1 students have learned expressions using past tense and vocabulary related to technology and computers and they are able to describe the different parts of these devices and the activities related to them. They also learned about affirmative and negative words and how to use them in different sentences. In Lesson 2, we started learning about talking on the phone, and also they will be learning to say where they went and how it was.
Spanish 2
Students from Spanish 2 are able to talk about their opinions about different subjects. They did a good job preparing presentations about Oscar de La Renta and his life. In Lesson 2, they will continue to learn about different personalities, attitudes, making comparisons and describing
people and things. We will be learning about long possessive adjectives. Besides, we will review clothing, family members and classroom objects.
Spanish 3
In Unit 3, Lesson 2, students have been learning about the use of future tense, they also have learned about central america countries and they were able to present about different countries and their symbols, creating posters with a lot of relevant information. Students are able to complete sentences and answer questions and give their opinions about different problems in the community. They will be learning about subjunctive regular verbs.
Spanish with Maestra Alicia Abu-Elreish:
4th Grade with maestra Alicia
February has been a busy and productive month in our 4th-grade Spanish class!
We wrapped up Unit 3, where students learned to use the singular present tense forms of the verb"ir" (to go) in sentences. They worked on forming sentences such as "Yo voy a la tienda"(I go to the store) and “Él va a la escuela"(He goes to school). To conclude the unit, students took their Unit 3 exam, demonstrating their understanding of the concepts we covered.
We have now begun Unit 4: "En la escuela," where students are learning vocabulary for school subjects and locations. This unit will help them talk about their school day in Spanish!
I am so proud of their hard work and enthusiasm for learning Spanish. Thank you for your continued support!
¡Hasta pronto!
5th Grade with maestra Alicia
February was an exciting month in 5th-grade Spanish! Our students focused on mastering the verb "gustar"in both singular and plural forms. They learned how to express likes and dislikes correctly and practiced making negative statements.
To reinforce their understanding, each student created a poster showcasing examples of "gusta"and "gustan." This hands-on activity helped them visualize when to use each form based on singular and plural nouns. After completing their posters, they had the opportunity to present them to the class,explaining their examples with confidence.
I’m proud of their hard work and enthusiasm for learning Spanish! As we move into March, we will continue building on these skills with new vocabulary and grammar concepts.
6th Grade with maestra Alicia
February was an exciting and productive month for our 6th-grade Spanish class. We wrapped up Unit 1, Lesson 2, where students focused on the important grammar concept of Noun-Adjective agreement. In Spanish, adjectives must match the gender and number of the nouns they describe. This is an essential rule in constructing accurate and meaningful sentences in Spanish. After mastering this concept, students completed their Unit 1, Lesson 2 test, where they demonstrated their understanding
At the end of the month, we began Unit 2, diving into new vocabulary related to time, school and class schedules, numbers, school subjects, and classroom activities. This new unit allows students to expand their ability to talk about their daily routines and school life in Spanish. It has been a wonderful opportunity for them to make connections to their everyday experiences while practicing new vocabulary and concepts.
I am proud of the progress each student has made, and I look forward to continuing this exciting journey of learning Spanish with them.
Thank you for your continued support!
7th Grade Spanish with maestra Alicia
Happy March! I wanted to take a moment to share with you the wonderful progress your child has made in Spanish during the month of February.
Throughout the month, our focus was on completing Unit 4, Lesson 1. The students learned about Direct Object Pronouns, a grammar topic that required some extra practice as it can be tricky. We worked through several exercises to ensure they understood how to replace direct objects in sentences with pronouns like “lo”, “la”, “los”, and “las”. While this topic presented a challenge, I’m proud of their efforts to master it.
In addition to learning about Direct Object Pronouns, we continued reviewing Stem-Changing Verbs(e:ie), a concept they began earlier in the lesson. It’s great to see their continued improvement with these verbs as they help build fluency in conversational Spanish.
Looking ahead, the students will soon be preparing for their Lesson Exam on Unit 4, Lesson 1. Afterward, we’ll dive into Unit 4, Lesson 2, where we will explore more exciting topics to build on everything they’ve learned so far.
Thank you for your continued support in your child’s language learning journey! If you have any questions or would like more information, please don't hesitate to reach out.
8th Grade Spanish with maestra Alicia
I hope this message finds you well! I am excited to share the progress our 8th-grade Spanish class made during the month of February.
We continued working on Unit 8, Lesson 2, expanding our vocabulary related to vacation activities, handicrafts, jewelry, and bargaining expressions. To bring their learning to life, students participated in a classroom mercado (market), where they practiced shopping and negotiating prices using the new vocabulary. This interactive activity helped reinforce their speaking skills in a fun and engaging way!
After mastering the vocabulary, students moved on to learning **Indirect Object Pronouns** (me, te, le, nos, les). They practiced identifying and using these pronouns in sentences, helping them understand how to express actions that involve giving, telling, or sending something to someone.
Looking ahead, we will soon begin studying “Demonstrative Adjectives, which will allow students to describe the location of objects relative to the speaker. I am excited to see their continued progress as we build on these important grammar concepts!
As always, thank you for your support in your child’s Spanish learning journey. Please encourage them to review their vocabulary and grammar notes at home to reinforce what we learn in class.
Updates from our Arabic Department
Ms. Hayat Al-Quttub
Chair of Islamic studies and Arabic language -
🌙 Ramadan Mubarak from Kindi Academy! 🌙
Alhamdulillah, we are once again blessed to welcome the sacred month of Ramadan—a time of boundless mercy, forgiveness, and spiritual renewal. On behalf of the Kindi Academy Staff, I extend a heartfelt welcome to all of you as we embrace this month of worship, reflection, and community.
May Allah (SWT) accept our fasting, prayers, and good deeds, and may He shower us with His infinite blessings.
Islamic Studies Department
As we enter this holy month, students and staff alike are eager to strengthen our faith and recharge our souls with spiritual enlightenment, InshaAllah.
In our Islamic Studies classes, students are actively engaging in lessons and projects that explore the significance and virtues of Ramadan. We are reflecting on how to maximize the blessings of this sacred time and deepen our connection with Allah (SWT). Across all grade levels, discussions focus on the immense rewards of fasting, the mercy of Allah, and the countless ways we can grow spiritually during this month.
Meanwhile, in Quran Studies:
May this Ramadan be a source of immense reward for all.
Arabic Department:
رمضان كريم
With the grace of Allah (SWT), Kindi Academy was honored to present at the 6th West Suburban World Language Conference once again this year. It was a privilege to represent our Arabic Department and lead two sessions on empowering students to express their emotions in their target language.
Throughout this blessed month, Kindi students are exploring Ramadan traditions in Arab countries and comparing them with cultural celebrations in the United States. This cross-cultural exchange allows them to appreciate and share diverse customs, making their learning experience even more meaningful.
At the same time, our Arabic learners have been making remarkable progress through their language units, engaging in exciting projects, games, and interactive activities.
🌟 Way to go, Kindi Arabic learners! Keep up the amazing work! 🌟
Wishing you all a blessed Ramadan, filled with peace, faith, and countless rewards. May Allah (SWT) shower you and your families with His mercy and guidance.
Studying Arabic- Tanwen with fun:
Ms. Nareman
Arabic, Islamic Studies, and Quran teacher -
As we reflect on the past month, we’re delighted to share the meaningful activities our students engaged in to celebrate and learn about Ramadan, the holy month dedicated to fasting, prayer, and community.
Preschool
Our youngest learners embraced the spirit of Ramadan by creating heartfelt cards for their families. They also enjoyed coloring pages featuring Ramadan themes, introducing them to the religious significance of the month.
Kindergarten
Kindergarteners crafted beautiful lanterns, symbolizing the light and guidance that Ramadan brings into our lives. They also designed thoughtful cards for their families, fostering a sense of love and unity.
First Grade
Our first graders embodied the values of charity and empathy by creating charity boxes. Teaching students the importance of giving during Ramadan. Additionally, they crafted cards for their families, strengthening familial bonds.
Third, Fourth, and Fifth Grades
Students in these grades focused on artistic expression by coloring pages that featured the word “Ramadan” written in Arabic. This activity not only enhanced their appreciation for Arabic calligraphy but also deepened their understanding of the cultural aspects of Ramadan.
These activities provided our students with hands-on experiences to connect with the values and traditions of Ramadan. We are proud of their creativity, compassion, and enthusiasm in embracing the lessons of this special month.
As we move forward, we look forward to more opportunities to celebrate and learn
Ms. Khadeeja
Arabic, Islamic Studies, and Quran teacher -
Ramadan Mubarak, may this month bring nothing but peace and blessings for you and your loved ones.
Here is little updates of what is going on in my classrooms,
1st Grade- Arabic:
Our first graders are doing an amazing job mastering letter shapes, breaking words into individual letters, and practicing their new skills in understanding masculine and feminine rules. They have been putting in great effort to improve their handwriting and reading skills. We’ve also kicked off our Ramadan lessons, where students are learning key vocabulary in Arabic, focusing on verbs, and continuing to perfect their shapes of the letters.
2nd Grade- Arabic (Co-teacher: Ms.Lina)
Our 2nd graders have been working hard on the "My Family" lesson, expanding their vocabulary to enhance their Arabic speaking skills. They’ve been focusing on pronouns and verbs, making great progress. Additionally, they’ve worked diligently to master the lesson of لام التعريف, perfecting their ability to distinguish the kinds of it, read, and write it. We’ve also started our Ramadan lessons, where students are learning key vocabulary in Arabic and reviewing everything they’ve learned throughout the year.
3rd Grade- Islamic Studies:
In 3rd grade Islamic Studies, we’ve been learning about the life of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the many hardships he endured for the sake of Muslims. We also discussed the migration from Mecca to Madinah and how the strong bond of brotherhood between the people of Mecca and Madinah was formed. Throughout our lessons, we’ve focused on the values of selflessness, generosity, and following the noble example of Prophet Muhammad, whose love for his people and perseverance through challenges continues to our present day.
We also briefly talked about Ramadan, and we will continue with the topic. The students will also get the chance to work on Ramadan projects to make this month feel more special, and to encourage and guide them on starting to set personal goals for the month of Ramadan as they grow.
4th Grade- Arabic:
My 4th graders and I have had a fantastic time exploring feelings and expressions in Arabic class! From learning new vocabulary to practicing expressions with pronouns, and playing many fun games, we’ve mastered the language of emotions. The students are now confidently using these expressions in our daily class conversations. It's been a fun and engaging experience for everyone.
We’ve just started our new Ramadan unit, where we will focus on reading, writing, and deepening our understanding of the present tense in Arabic. Students will learn how to use the present tense in sentences with pronouns, while also reviewing the grammar concepts we've covered throughout the year. Very proud of my 4th graders, and am looking forward to more fun classes with them.
6th Grade- Arabic:
My 6th grade class has been an absolute joy to teach! We continue to work on the rules of singular, dual, and plural forms, and the students are also working on mastering the rules of tanween and demonstrative pronouns. Alongside building their vocabulary, we have been focusing on improving handwriting skills. In the coming weeks, we will work on a special Ramadan unit, where students will learn new vocabulary and gain a deeper understanding of the difference between verbs and nouns. We will also focus on sentence formation, including identifying and distinguishing between verbal and nominal sentences.
9th Grade- Islamic Studies and Quran:
In our 9th grade Islamic Studies class, we continue our journey of learning about Palestine, learning its rich history and the current situation. Recently, my students worked on a research paper comparing Islam and other religions in terms of their teachings on violence, using various resources to support their thesis. We have also had a series of brief talks on Ramadan, setting personal goals, and engaging in thoughtful discussions and reminders on Ramadan and other relevant topics.
In our Quran studies, we are continuing our exploration of Surat Al-Israa, focusing on understanding the meanings of the verses and the tafseer behind each one, along with the ahadith related to them. There has been a lot to cover, and a lot of engaging topics for class discussions.
Ms. Heiam
Arabic, Islamic Studies, and Quran teacher -
5th grade Quran and Islamic Study
I’m pleased to share that our 5th graders have successfully memorized Surat AL - Inshiqaq working diligently, demonstrating great dedication in their Quranic Studies .
In Islamic Studies we’ve been learning important lessons from the life of the prophet ( وسلم عليه هللا صلى( In Madinah : 1. How he established unity among the Muhajirin and Ansar, the importance of the constitution , and the role of the Masjid. 2. The Treaty of Hudaibiyah and the lessons of patience , wisdom , and trust in Allah’s ( SWT ) plan that we learned from it . finally we learned about ( Fath Makkah ) learning how the character of the Prophet showing forgiveness , mercy , and justice to his former enemies helped spread Islam .
6th grade Quran and Islamic Study
In Quran class we are still studying Surat ( As-Sajdah ), reciting Quran with correct pronunciation of the letters and the words, Also Tafseer ( explanation ) of the Surah’s verses for deeper understanding and to develop love for the Quran and live by its teaching. One of the key themes of this Surah is the importance of Sujood ( prostration ) and submission to Allah ( SW ) that bring guidance and mercy . In Islamic Study we have been learning about the lives of some of the Prophets in Islamic histories and the lessons we learned from their stories : 1- Prophet Nuh ( A S ) : the importance of patience and unwavering faith in Allah . 2- Prophet Dawud ( A S ) : gratitude and humility.
Prophet sulaiman ( A S ) : the importance of using knowledge and power responsibly . Prophet Musa ( A S ) : trust , courage , and standing for justice .
4th grade Quran and Islamic Study
In Quran class: Alhamdulillah, we finished memorizing and understanding Surat At-Takwee . In Islamic Study: we have completed our study of the life of Abu Bakr As -Siddiq ( RA ) the first caliph of Islam and one of the closest companions of our prophet ( وسلم عليه هللا صلى ( learning his leadership of the Muslim Ummah , his dedication to the Quran , his simplicity , teaching us humility and selflessness to follow in his footsteps and grow into strong faithfull leaders.
8th grade and high school Arabic
Our students have successfully completed the clothing unit by finishing a project where they wrote sentences describing various clothing items using adjectives to express colors, sizes , and styles pairing their sentences with pictures to illustrate their description. This Project helped them practice their Arabic writing skills in a fun and engaging way, they also presented their project practicing their speaking and pronunciation skills and building confidence in their spoken Arabic.
6th grade Arabic
The students have successfully completed their transportation unit by finishing a project creating models of different vehicles using tissue boxes and other materials and writing sentences describing their models, such as the colors , size, and the type of transportation to help them strength their vocabulary and writing skills , they also presented their project to the class to build confidence in using the language !
7th grade Arabic
Our 7th graders finished the clothing unit focusing on the learning of various clothing items using adjectives and constructing complete sentences in Arabic. To show their learning, they completed a creative project where they wrote descriptive sentences using adjectives and including pictures
Ms. Lina
Arabic, Islamic Studies, and Quran teacher -
As we step into March, our students have been engaged in exciting learning experiences across all grade levels! Here’s a glimpse of what we’ve been working on:
Pre-K 3 & 4 – Our little learners have been discovering body parts, learning new letters, and expanding their Arabic vocabulary in fun and interactive ways!
Kindergarten – Our KG students continue to improve their reading and writing skills while also exploring the second pillar of Islam. They are enjoying practicing prayer and deepening their understanding of its significance.
First Grade – First graders are excited about our Ramadan lessons, incorporating their learning about verbs and applying them to masculine and feminine words.
Fourth Grade – Students have been exploring emotions and learning how to express different actions related to their feelings in Arabic.
Fifth Grade – Our fifth graders have been having fun learning about hobbies and using them in conversations, making their learning experience more interactive and engaging.
Sixth Grade—This month, our sixth graders have been captivated by the story of Prophet Musa (AS), his journey with Bani Israeel, and his encounters with Al-Khidr. They have also worked on projects and enjoyed presenting them to their classmates.
We are proud of our students' progress and enthusiasm for learning!
Chair of Islamic studies and Arabic language -
🌙 Ramadan Mubarak from Kindi Academy! 🌙
Alhamdulillah, we are once again blessed to welcome the sacred month of Ramadan—a time of boundless mercy, forgiveness, and spiritual renewal. On behalf of the Kindi Academy Staff, I extend a heartfelt welcome to all of you as we embrace this month of worship, reflection, and community.
May Allah (SWT) accept our fasting, prayers, and good deeds, and may He shower us with His infinite blessings.
Islamic Studies Department
As we enter this holy month, students and staff alike are eager to strengthen our faith and recharge our souls with spiritual enlightenment, InshaAllah.
In our Islamic Studies classes, students are actively engaging in lessons and projects that explore the significance and virtues of Ramadan. We are reflecting on how to maximize the blessings of this sacred time and deepen our connection with Allah (SWT). Across all grade levels, discussions focus on the immense rewards of fasting, the mercy of Allah, and the countless ways we can grow spiritually during this month.
Meanwhile, in Quran Studies:
- 7th graders are nearing the completion of Surat Qaaf and will soon begin memorizing Surat Al-Rahman.
- 8th graders are progressing through the final third of Surat Yaseen. This Ramadan, they will focus on memorizing and understanding the Ayat of Fasting (183-185) from Surat Al-Baqarah.
- High school students are deepening their understanding of the last part of Surat Al-Kahf, tying it to their study of the signs of Judgment Day.
May this Ramadan be a source of immense reward for all.
Arabic Department:
رمضان كريم
With the grace of Allah (SWT), Kindi Academy was honored to present at the 6th West Suburban World Language Conference once again this year. It was a privilege to represent our Arabic Department and lead two sessions on empowering students to express their emotions in their target language.
Throughout this blessed month, Kindi students are exploring Ramadan traditions in Arab countries and comparing them with cultural celebrations in the United States. This cross-cultural exchange allows them to appreciate and share diverse customs, making their learning experience even more meaningful.
At the same time, our Arabic learners have been making remarkable progress through their language units, engaging in exciting projects, games, and interactive activities.
🌟 Way to go, Kindi Arabic learners! Keep up the amazing work! 🌟
Wishing you all a blessed Ramadan, filled with peace, faith, and countless rewards. May Allah (SWT) shower you and your families with His mercy and guidance.
Studying Arabic- Tanwen with fun:
Ms. Nareman
Arabic, Islamic Studies, and Quran teacher -
As we reflect on the past month, we’re delighted to share the meaningful activities our students engaged in to celebrate and learn about Ramadan, the holy month dedicated to fasting, prayer, and community.
Preschool
Our youngest learners embraced the spirit of Ramadan by creating heartfelt cards for their families. They also enjoyed coloring pages featuring Ramadan themes, introducing them to the religious significance of the month.
Kindergarten
Kindergarteners crafted beautiful lanterns, symbolizing the light and guidance that Ramadan brings into our lives. They also designed thoughtful cards for their families, fostering a sense of love and unity.
First Grade
Our first graders embodied the values of charity and empathy by creating charity boxes. Teaching students the importance of giving during Ramadan. Additionally, they crafted cards for their families, strengthening familial bonds.
Third, Fourth, and Fifth Grades
Students in these grades focused on artistic expression by coloring pages that featured the word “Ramadan” written in Arabic. This activity not only enhanced their appreciation for Arabic calligraphy but also deepened their understanding of the cultural aspects of Ramadan.
These activities provided our students with hands-on experiences to connect with the values and traditions of Ramadan. We are proud of their creativity, compassion, and enthusiasm in embracing the lessons of this special month.
As we move forward, we look forward to more opportunities to celebrate and learn
Ms. Khadeeja
Arabic, Islamic Studies, and Quran teacher -
Ramadan Mubarak, may this month bring nothing but peace and blessings for you and your loved ones.
Here is little updates of what is going on in my classrooms,
1st Grade- Arabic:
Our first graders are doing an amazing job mastering letter shapes, breaking words into individual letters, and practicing their new skills in understanding masculine and feminine rules. They have been putting in great effort to improve their handwriting and reading skills. We’ve also kicked off our Ramadan lessons, where students are learning key vocabulary in Arabic, focusing on verbs, and continuing to perfect their shapes of the letters.
2nd Grade- Arabic (Co-teacher: Ms.Lina)
Our 2nd graders have been working hard on the "My Family" lesson, expanding their vocabulary to enhance their Arabic speaking skills. They’ve been focusing on pronouns and verbs, making great progress. Additionally, they’ve worked diligently to master the lesson of لام التعريف, perfecting their ability to distinguish the kinds of it, read, and write it. We’ve also started our Ramadan lessons, where students are learning key vocabulary in Arabic and reviewing everything they’ve learned throughout the year.
3rd Grade- Islamic Studies:
In 3rd grade Islamic Studies, we’ve been learning about the life of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the many hardships he endured for the sake of Muslims. We also discussed the migration from Mecca to Madinah and how the strong bond of brotherhood between the people of Mecca and Madinah was formed. Throughout our lessons, we’ve focused on the values of selflessness, generosity, and following the noble example of Prophet Muhammad, whose love for his people and perseverance through challenges continues to our present day.
We also briefly talked about Ramadan, and we will continue with the topic. The students will also get the chance to work on Ramadan projects to make this month feel more special, and to encourage and guide them on starting to set personal goals for the month of Ramadan as they grow.
4th Grade- Arabic:
My 4th graders and I have had a fantastic time exploring feelings and expressions in Arabic class! From learning new vocabulary to practicing expressions with pronouns, and playing many fun games, we’ve mastered the language of emotions. The students are now confidently using these expressions in our daily class conversations. It's been a fun and engaging experience for everyone.
We’ve just started our new Ramadan unit, where we will focus on reading, writing, and deepening our understanding of the present tense in Arabic. Students will learn how to use the present tense in sentences with pronouns, while also reviewing the grammar concepts we've covered throughout the year. Very proud of my 4th graders, and am looking forward to more fun classes with them.
6th Grade- Arabic:
My 6th grade class has been an absolute joy to teach! We continue to work on the rules of singular, dual, and plural forms, and the students are also working on mastering the rules of tanween and demonstrative pronouns. Alongside building their vocabulary, we have been focusing on improving handwriting skills. In the coming weeks, we will work on a special Ramadan unit, where students will learn new vocabulary and gain a deeper understanding of the difference between verbs and nouns. We will also focus on sentence formation, including identifying and distinguishing between verbal and nominal sentences.
9th Grade- Islamic Studies and Quran:
In our 9th grade Islamic Studies class, we continue our journey of learning about Palestine, learning its rich history and the current situation. Recently, my students worked on a research paper comparing Islam and other religions in terms of their teachings on violence, using various resources to support their thesis. We have also had a series of brief talks on Ramadan, setting personal goals, and engaging in thoughtful discussions and reminders on Ramadan and other relevant topics.
In our Quran studies, we are continuing our exploration of Surat Al-Israa, focusing on understanding the meanings of the verses and the tafseer behind each one, along with the ahadith related to them. There has been a lot to cover, and a lot of engaging topics for class discussions.
Ms. Heiam
Arabic, Islamic Studies, and Quran teacher -
5th grade Quran and Islamic Study
I’m pleased to share that our 5th graders have successfully memorized Surat AL - Inshiqaq working diligently, demonstrating great dedication in their Quranic Studies .
In Islamic Studies we’ve been learning important lessons from the life of the prophet ( وسلم عليه هللا صلى( In Madinah : 1. How he established unity among the Muhajirin and Ansar, the importance of the constitution , and the role of the Masjid. 2. The Treaty of Hudaibiyah and the lessons of patience , wisdom , and trust in Allah’s ( SWT ) plan that we learned from it . finally we learned about ( Fath Makkah ) learning how the character of the Prophet showing forgiveness , mercy , and justice to his former enemies helped spread Islam .
6th grade Quran and Islamic Study
In Quran class we are still studying Surat ( As-Sajdah ), reciting Quran with correct pronunciation of the letters and the words, Also Tafseer ( explanation ) of the Surah’s verses for deeper understanding and to develop love for the Quran and live by its teaching. One of the key themes of this Surah is the importance of Sujood ( prostration ) and submission to Allah ( SW ) that bring guidance and mercy . In Islamic Study we have been learning about the lives of some of the Prophets in Islamic histories and the lessons we learned from their stories : 1- Prophet Nuh ( A S ) : the importance of patience and unwavering faith in Allah . 2- Prophet Dawud ( A S ) : gratitude and humility.
Prophet sulaiman ( A S ) : the importance of using knowledge and power responsibly . Prophet Musa ( A S ) : trust , courage , and standing for justice .
4th grade Quran and Islamic Study
In Quran class: Alhamdulillah, we finished memorizing and understanding Surat At-Takwee . In Islamic Study: we have completed our study of the life of Abu Bakr As -Siddiq ( RA ) the first caliph of Islam and one of the closest companions of our prophet ( وسلم عليه هللا صلى ( learning his leadership of the Muslim Ummah , his dedication to the Quran , his simplicity , teaching us humility and selflessness to follow in his footsteps and grow into strong faithfull leaders.
8th grade and high school Arabic
Our students have successfully completed the clothing unit by finishing a project where they wrote sentences describing various clothing items using adjectives to express colors, sizes , and styles pairing their sentences with pictures to illustrate their description. This Project helped them practice their Arabic writing skills in a fun and engaging way, they also presented their project practicing their speaking and pronunciation skills and building confidence in their spoken Arabic.
6th grade Arabic
The students have successfully completed their transportation unit by finishing a project creating models of different vehicles using tissue boxes and other materials and writing sentences describing their models, such as the colors , size, and the type of transportation to help them strength their vocabulary and writing skills , they also presented their project to the class to build confidence in using the language !
7th grade Arabic
Our 7th graders finished the clothing unit focusing on the learning of various clothing items using adjectives and constructing complete sentences in Arabic. To show their learning, they completed a creative project where they wrote descriptive sentences using adjectives and including pictures
Ms. Lina
Arabic, Islamic Studies, and Quran teacher -
As we step into March, our students have been engaged in exciting learning experiences across all grade levels! Here’s a glimpse of what we’ve been working on:
Pre-K 3 & 4 – Our little learners have been discovering body parts, learning new letters, and expanding their Arabic vocabulary in fun and interactive ways!
Kindergarten – Our KG students continue to improve their reading and writing skills while also exploring the second pillar of Islam. They are enjoying practicing prayer and deepening their understanding of its significance.
First Grade – First graders are excited about our Ramadan lessons, incorporating their learning about verbs and applying them to masculine and feminine words.
Fourth Grade – Students have been exploring emotions and learning how to express different actions related to their feelings in Arabic.
Fifth Grade – Our fifth graders have been having fun learning about hobbies and using them in conversations, making their learning experience more interactive and engaging.
Sixth Grade—This month, our sixth graders have been captivated by the story of Prophet Musa (AS), his journey with Bani Israeel, and his encounters with Al-Khidr. They have also worked on projects and enjoyed presenting them to their classmates.
We are proud of our students' progress and enthusiasm for learning!