Events for the week of December 12th-16th
10th Pancake Breakfast, Art Auction and Eco Fashion Show 9:00-11:00 on the Main Campus, Beautiful Art, Great Fashion and Yummy Food!
13/14/15 Kids Sale at FN
15th Kiwanis Dictionary giveaway to our 3rd years
16th Last day of school--see you January 3rd
17th Don't forget to send in your tax credit donations
Hello Faith North Community,
What a great time the upper elementary students has last Saturday presenting our newly styled coop and baby chickens on the Tour De Coops. A big thanks you to parents Tonie & Carlos Basulto for their kind generosity and work to help make this happen.
Consider this when contemplating ideas for your New Years Resolutions:
One of the most important attitudes to nurture is to see a child as a new being each day, forgetting the past and seeing only the potential for greatness. This is also the best way to look at ourselves. It is a lot to ask of the adult to provide everything a child needs and I believe that time should be allotted, perhaps at the beginning of each day, to get mentally prepared for the task by taking a walk or just sitting quietly, then we are better able to take a deep breath and face the day with a feeling of being new and in the present moment. If we can balance ourselves--our interactions with our children will be more enjoyable.
All the best,
Susan Engdall
Principal
Monday, November 21, 2011
Upcoming Events for the week of November 28th-December 3rd:
Tuesday 11/29 FN boys’ basketball team vs. Magnet at Capitol, 6:00
Thursday 12/1 Holiday Symphony Trip 9:00
Thursday 12/1 FN boys’ basketball team vs. Lowell at Capitol, 7:00
Friday 12/2 Snow Day Event, 4:00-8:00 to raise funds for the middle school trip to New York City
Saturday 12/3 Tour De Coops, Faith North will have its coop on tour!
Dear Faith North Community,
As we spend Thanksgiving with our family and friends, all of us at Faith North have so much to be thankful for.
I am thankful for all of our students who come to school every day prepared to learn and are amazing little and big Montessorians.
I am thankful for our outstanding teachers, who put in so many hours and are so committed to making sure every single one of our students is getting a quality education and preparing themselves for life.
I am thankful for our instructional assistants, nurse’s assistant, media center, front office and facilities staff who are all so critical to our mission of preparing every student to succeed and who are always so willing to do whatever it takes to accomplish that mission.
I am thankful to Phoenix Elementary School District who helps us form one impressive team as we continue to build what I believe is a school of choice that builds strong, flexible and creative learners.
Finally, I am thankful to all of our parents and families. We need you to be active and engaged participants in your student's education in order for them to succeed and we appreciate all that you do.
I hope all of you have a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving holiday.
All the best,
Susan Engdall
Principal
Tuesday 11/29 FN boys’ basketball team vs. Magnet at Capitol, 6:00
Thursday 12/1 Holiday Symphony Trip 9:00
Thursday 12/1 FN boys’ basketball team vs. Lowell at Capitol, 7:00
Friday 12/2 Snow Day Event, 4:00-8:00 to raise funds for the middle school trip to New York City
Saturday 12/3 Tour De Coops, Faith North will have its coop on tour!
Dear Faith North Community,
As we spend Thanksgiving with our family and friends, all of us at Faith North have so much to be thankful for.
I am thankful for all of our students who come to school every day prepared to learn and are amazing little and big Montessorians.
I am thankful for our outstanding teachers, who put in so many hours and are so committed to making sure every single one of our students is getting a quality education and preparing themselves for life.
I am thankful for our instructional assistants, nurse’s assistant, media center, front office and facilities staff who are all so critical to our mission of preparing every student to succeed and who are always so willing to do whatever it takes to accomplish that mission.
I am thankful to Phoenix Elementary School District who helps us form one impressive team as we continue to build what I believe is a school of choice that builds strong, flexible and creative learners.
Finally, I am thankful to all of our parents and families. We need you to be active and engaged participants in your student's education in order for them to succeed and we appreciate all that you do.
I hope all of you have a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving holiday.
All the best,
Susan Engdall
Principal
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Events for the week of November 14-18
15th Faith North Boys’ Basketball team vs. Capitol at Capitol, 5:00
17th & 18th Kid’s Sale at FNM@Shaw to benefit the upper elementary trip to Washington DC, 3:00
17th Thanksgiving lunch at school, tickets are available in the school cafeteria, $5:00!
17th Faith North Boys’ Basketball team vs. Garfield at Herrera, 5:00
Hello Faith North Community,
THERE ARE MANY FUN AND EASY WAYS FOR PARENTS TO EARN THEIR VOLUNTEER HOURS
Each of us are a part of and responsible for the culture at Faith North. At Faith North Montessori each family is required to fulfill a minimum of 10 hours of school service per year. Earning your 10 hours can be fun and easy and there are always plenty of opportunities. Here are just a few suggestions:
November 1th thru the 30th- Jamba Juice Cards
Purchase a Jamba Juice card, a $50.00 value for $10.00 and receive 8 BOGO's! Cards are available at the FN main office. 50% of the proceeds will benefit our school.
November 11th thru November 18th Cookie Dough
Just in time for the holidays we will be having our annual cookie dough fundraiser. Cookies are available in 10 different varieties including, organic, and gluten free. Each package is only $5.00 and 40% of the profits will benefit our school. Please check your children’s bags for order sheets.
Fresh and Easy Shop for Schools – Now thru December 31st.
Shop at Fresh and Easy and save your receipts (totaling $20.00 or more) then drop them off in one of the convenient collection bins located at each campus. For every $20.00 spent between September 1st and December 31st we will receive $1.00 from Fresh and Easy.
Fry’s Food and Drug – Now thru April
Do you shop at Fry’s or know someone who does? Pick up a Faith North bar code and scan it along with your Fry’s VIP card. Once you scan the barcode, you will be instantly linked to Faith North & FN @ Shaw. For every $50.000 in purchases made now thru April, Fry’s will donate $200.00 up to $2000.00. Bar codes can be picked up at the FN main campus.
If you have questions please contact us! faithnorthpta@gmail.com
Attend The Holiday Concert with your student or other school events and be an active participant in your student's education, Monday, December 5th at The Herrera Performing Arts Center, 6:00. You will find all other events on the school website or you will receive news of events via email.
Attend monthly Site Council and PTA meetings to be a part of decisions that affect your childs’ school and education. The dates of all upcoming meetings are listed on the school website at phxschool.org
Involved parents at Faith North are critical to our success and we appreciate all the work and support that our parents provide every day. Thank you!
15th Faith North Boys’ Basketball team vs. Capitol at Capitol, 5:00
17th & 18th Kid’s Sale at FNM@Shaw to benefit the upper elementary trip to Washington DC, 3:00
17th Thanksgiving lunch at school, tickets are available in the school cafeteria, $5:00!
17th Faith North Boys’ Basketball team vs. Garfield at Herrera, 5:00
Hello Faith North Community,
THERE ARE MANY FUN AND EASY WAYS FOR PARENTS TO EARN THEIR VOLUNTEER HOURS
Each of us are a part of and responsible for the culture at Faith North. At Faith North Montessori each family is required to fulfill a minimum of 10 hours of school service per year. Earning your 10 hours can be fun and easy and there are always plenty of opportunities. Here are just a few suggestions:
November 1th thru the 30th- Jamba Juice Cards
Purchase a Jamba Juice card, a $50.00 value for $10.00 and receive 8 BOGO's! Cards are available at the FN main office. 50% of the proceeds will benefit our school.
November 11th thru November 18th Cookie Dough
Just in time for the holidays we will be having our annual cookie dough fundraiser. Cookies are available in 10 different varieties including, organic, and gluten free. Each package is only $5.00 and 40% of the profits will benefit our school. Please check your children’s bags for order sheets.
Fresh and Easy Shop for Schools – Now thru December 31st.
Shop at Fresh and Easy and save your receipts (totaling $20.00 or more) then drop them off in one of the convenient collection bins located at each campus. For every $20.00 spent between September 1st and December 31st we will receive $1.00 from Fresh and Easy.
Fry’s Food and Drug – Now thru April
Do you shop at Fry’s or know someone who does? Pick up a Faith North bar code and scan it along with your Fry’s VIP card. Once you scan the barcode, you will be instantly linked to Faith North & FN @ Shaw. For every $50.000 in purchases made now thru April, Fry’s will donate $200.00 up to $2000.00. Bar codes can be picked up at the FN main campus.
If you have questions please contact us! faithnorthpta@gmail.com
Attend The Holiday Concert with your student or other school events and be an active participant in your student's education, Monday, December 5th at The Herrera Performing Arts Center, 6:00. You will find all other events on the school website or you will receive news of events via email.
Attend monthly Site Council and PTA meetings to be a part of decisions that affect your childs’ school and education. The dates of all upcoming meetings are listed on the school website at phxschool.org
Involved parents at Faith North are critical to our success and we appreciate all the work and support that our parents provide every day. Thank you!
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Events for the week of Novermber 7th-11th
8th FN Boys Basketball team vs. Kenilworth at Herrera 7:00
9th Bus Evacuation Drill at Main Campus 11:15
9th Site Council and PTA meeting at Main Campus 5:00/6:00
10th FN Boys Basketball team vs. Hererra at Herrera 5:00
11th No school, have some fun!
12th Parents Night Out at the Duce 6-9, babysitting at amin campus available
Hello Faith North Community:
HERE ARE SUSAN ENGDALL’S TOP TEN REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD GIVE A TAX CREDIT CONTRIBUTION TO FAITH NORTH MONTESSORI:
10. Individuals can make a tax credit contribution up to $200 or $400 for married couples and deduct that amount directly from your 2011 Arizona tax return.
9. Our chickens and bunnies depend on us!
8. You do not need to have a child enrolled in a school to take advantage of this tax credit, just reside in Arizona.
7. More than 40% of our students participate in after school classes, your tax credit will help curb the cost of these programs so that even more children can participate and be exposed to enriching opportunities that build additional talents.
6. Contributions need to be made by December 31, 2011 to apply to your 2011 tax return.
5. Ms. Clark and Ms. Guntermann have so much energy and passion that they should probably be regulated by the Arizona Corporation Commission. Their work in our outdoor environments is crucial to a well-rounded Montessori experience. Tax credit dollars help fund them.
4. You can have an even bigger impact on the students at Faith North if you print extra copies of the tax credit form and give them to your family, friends and coworkers and maybe even post it on your Facebook and Twitter pages.
3. Provide additional opportunities to build a true classroom community and independence in the child. The upper elementary and middle school have planned some fun and educational end of the year trips to Washington DC and New York. Tax credit funds help defer some of the cost of the trips to parents.
2. Coach Larson and his afterschool middle school sports teams would love new uniforms and equipment that your tax credit may help purchase.
And the Number One reason you should give a tax credit contribution to Faith North: You can expose our students to new opportunities like some of those described above and truly change their lives in a positive way, and it is as easy as going to: http://www.phxelem.k12.az.us/district/tax_credit/ or snipping the coupon below and submitting to the school office.
***********************************************************
Tax Credit Donation for Faith North Montessori:
Name:
Address:
Amount:
Please use my donation for (circle one):
Greatest need
Outdoor Environment
Afterschool Programs
Field Trips
8th FN Boys Basketball team vs. Kenilworth at Herrera 7:00
9th Bus Evacuation Drill at Main Campus 11:15
9th Site Council and PTA meeting at Main Campus 5:00/6:00
10th FN Boys Basketball team vs. Hererra at Herrera 5:00
11th No school, have some fun!
12th Parents Night Out at the Duce 6-9, babysitting at amin campus available
Hello Faith North Community:
HERE ARE SUSAN ENGDALL’S TOP TEN REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD GIVE A TAX CREDIT CONTRIBUTION TO FAITH NORTH MONTESSORI:
10. Individuals can make a tax credit contribution up to $200 or $400 for married couples and deduct that amount directly from your 2011 Arizona tax return.
9. Our chickens and bunnies depend on us!
8. You do not need to have a child enrolled in a school to take advantage of this tax credit, just reside in Arizona.
7. More than 40% of our students participate in after school classes, your tax credit will help curb the cost of these programs so that even more children can participate and be exposed to enriching opportunities that build additional talents.
6. Contributions need to be made by December 31, 2011 to apply to your 2011 tax return.
5. Ms. Clark and Ms. Guntermann have so much energy and passion that they should probably be regulated by the Arizona Corporation Commission. Their work in our outdoor environments is crucial to a well-rounded Montessori experience. Tax credit dollars help fund them.
4. You can have an even bigger impact on the students at Faith North if you print extra copies of the tax credit form and give them to your family, friends and coworkers and maybe even post it on your Facebook and Twitter pages.
3. Provide additional opportunities to build a true classroom community and independence in the child. The upper elementary and middle school have planned some fun and educational end of the year trips to Washington DC and New York. Tax credit funds help defer some of the cost of the trips to parents.
2. Coach Larson and his afterschool middle school sports teams would love new uniforms and equipment that your tax credit may help purchase.
And the Number One reason you should give a tax credit contribution to Faith North: You can expose our students to new opportunities like some of those described above and truly change their lives in a positive way, and it is as easy as going to: http://www.phxelem.k12.az.us/district/tax_credit/ or snipping the coupon below and submitting to the school office.
***********************************************************
Tax Credit Donation for Faith North Montessori:
Name:
Address:
Amount:
Please use my donation for (circle one):
Greatest need
Outdoor Environment
Afterschool Programs
Field Trips
Monday, October 24, 2011
Events for the week of October 24-28th:
25th AM and PM Kids Sale on the FN Campus
25th Boys Basketball FN vs. Heard 6:00 at Herrera
26th International Children's Day Celebration
27th Boys Basketball FN vs. Edison 7:00 at Herrera
28th Picture Day!
28th 5:30-8:300 Fall Fun Fest at FN
Hello Faith North Community,
International Children's Day is approaching. This is a great opportunity for you to work with your children on the heritage of your family or one that is of interest to your child. The work of research and learning about cultures from around the world is just one small part of the day; the essence being toleance, honor and peace.
The Benefit of Multi-Age Classrooms in Encouraging Peace:
Observing that children learn best in environments likened to family and home, Montessori designed her classrooms to include children of three sequential ages. Her extensive studies of children and how they learn led her to divide children into four planes of development and sensitive periods of learning. The children are grouped together in multi-age classrooms to meet the needs of the child. In the Montessori classroom, the younger children feel encouraged and capable of achieving mastery of work when they see older students completing the lesson. These groupings benefit older students as well because older children will feel capable, confident, and competent serving as mentors and role models to the younger children. Ideally, the children spend three years in the same Montessori classroom with the same teacher who nurtures and educates the child with a continuum of development.
Practical Life Develops Self-Esteem and Empowers Children to Solve Their Own Problems:
Montessori also believed that children should be empowered to become independent, stating, “The essence of independence is learning to take of oneself.” Practical life activities, such as scooping, pouring, sweeping, sewing, gardening, and conflict resolution, encourage independence, responsibility, confidence, and competence. The children feel valuable, capable, and empowered. Such feelings cultivate a compassionate, secure child who feels no need to bully or degrade others.
Multi-Cultural Cosmic Curriculum Encourages Students to Be Respectful of all Human Beings:
With multi-cultural curriculum and classrooms, children learn to be respectful of all human beings from all corners of our Earth. Students learn the names of each continent’s countries, capitals, flags, and landforms, as well as examining customs and cultures of people throughout our globe. Montessori believed that children who know about the Earth and its inhabitants would be the peacekeepers of our world. With knowledge and understanding for other cultures, children develop feelings of compassion and cooperation as human beings. Thus, the Montessori method is perhaps even more relevant is today’s global village.
Lessons in Conflict Resolution are Prevalent in the Montessori Classroom for Creating Peace:
Finally, peace may prevail in the Montessori classroom because the children are instructed in conflict resolution with a talking stick, a peace table, and a multitude of lessons regarding how to speak with one another to share feelings and needs when a problem occurs. Maria Montessori was committed to creating peace in our world through the education of our children and developed lessons specifically for children to learn how to solve their own problems peacefully.
All the best,
Susan Engdall
25th AM and PM Kids Sale on the FN Campus
25th Boys Basketball FN vs. Heard 6:00 at Herrera
26th International Children's Day Celebration
27th Boys Basketball FN vs. Edison 7:00 at Herrera
28th Picture Day!
28th 5:30-8:300 Fall Fun Fest at FN
Hello Faith North Community,
International Children's Day is approaching. This is a great opportunity for you to work with your children on the heritage of your family or one that is of interest to your child. The work of research and learning about cultures from around the world is just one small part of the day; the essence being toleance, honor and peace.
The Benefit of Multi-Age Classrooms in Encouraging Peace:
Observing that children learn best in environments likened to family and home, Montessori designed her classrooms to include children of three sequential ages. Her extensive studies of children and how they learn led her to divide children into four planes of development and sensitive periods of learning. The children are grouped together in multi-age classrooms to meet the needs of the child. In the Montessori classroom, the younger children feel encouraged and capable of achieving mastery of work when they see older students completing the lesson. These groupings benefit older students as well because older children will feel capable, confident, and competent serving as mentors and role models to the younger children. Ideally, the children spend three years in the same Montessori classroom with the same teacher who nurtures and educates the child with a continuum of development.
Practical Life Develops Self-Esteem and Empowers Children to Solve Their Own Problems:
Montessori also believed that children should be empowered to become independent, stating, “The essence of independence is learning to take of oneself.” Practical life activities, such as scooping, pouring, sweeping, sewing, gardening, and conflict resolution, encourage independence, responsibility, confidence, and competence. The children feel valuable, capable, and empowered. Such feelings cultivate a compassionate, secure child who feels no need to bully or degrade others.
Multi-Cultural Cosmic Curriculum Encourages Students to Be Respectful of all Human Beings:
With multi-cultural curriculum and classrooms, children learn to be respectful of all human beings from all corners of our Earth. Students learn the names of each continent’s countries, capitals, flags, and landforms, as well as examining customs and cultures of people throughout our globe. Montessori believed that children who know about the Earth and its inhabitants would be the peacekeepers of our world. With knowledge and understanding for other cultures, children develop feelings of compassion and cooperation as human beings. Thus, the Montessori method is perhaps even more relevant is today’s global village.
Lessons in Conflict Resolution are Prevalent in the Montessori Classroom for Creating Peace:
Finally, peace may prevail in the Montessori classroom because the children are instructed in conflict resolution with a talking stick, a peace table, and a multitude of lessons regarding how to speak with one another to share feelings and needs when a problem occurs. Maria Montessori was committed to creating peace in our world through the education of our children and developed lessons specifically for children to learn how to solve their own problems peacefully.
All the best,
Susan Engdall
Friday, October 14, 2011
Events for the week of October 17th-21st
Wednesday 10/19/11 Phoenix Elementary School District's 140th Birthday Celebration 3:30-6:00 Dunbar School
Wednesday 10/19/11 Site Council at 5:00 PTA at 6:00 Shaw Media Center and Cafeteria
Thursday 10/20/11 & 10/21/11 PTA Kids Sale at FNM@Shaw at dismissal
Hello Faith North Community,
What a beautiful week it has been to enjoy extra time with your children during our Autumn Break. We are looking forward to seeing you all again on Monday, October 17th refreshed and ready to go!
The Arizona Department of Education (ADE) announced a new accountability system for schools, and as of October 12, 2011 the ratings for each school were released. ADE believes that the new A-F letter grade system better informs parents on how different schools measure-up on total academic performance because it evaluates both academic outcomes and academic growth. Including student academic growth in an accountability system takes into account the unique student demographics of each school, and the different challenges those raise. For example, the challenges facing suburban, inner-city and rural schools are quite different from one another. Overall, the A-F letter grade system provides a clearer picture of school performance to parents and compares schools on a fairer, more equitable basis. Faith North received a Performing Plus rating under the old accountability system and the letter grade "B" under the new system. ADE defines “B” schools as demonstrating an above average level of performance. Should you have any questions regarding our new label or the new rating system please let me know or you can log onto the Arizona Department of Education website for a more detailed explanation of our new accountability system.
All the best and enjoy the day!
Susan Engdall
Principal
Wednesday 10/19/11 Phoenix Elementary School District's 140th Birthday Celebration 3:30-6:00 Dunbar School
Wednesday 10/19/11 Site Council at 5:00 PTA at 6:00 Shaw Media Center and Cafeteria
Thursday 10/20/11 & 10/21/11 PTA Kids Sale at FNM@Shaw at dismissal
Hello Faith North Community,
What a beautiful week it has been to enjoy extra time with your children during our Autumn Break. We are looking forward to seeing you all again on Monday, October 17th refreshed and ready to go!
The Arizona Department of Education (ADE) announced a new accountability system for schools, and as of October 12, 2011 the ratings for each school were released. ADE believes that the new A-F letter grade system better informs parents on how different schools measure-up on total academic performance because it evaluates both academic outcomes and academic growth. Including student academic growth in an accountability system takes into account the unique student demographics of each school, and the different challenges those raise. For example, the challenges facing suburban, inner-city and rural schools are quite different from one another. Overall, the A-F letter grade system provides a clearer picture of school performance to parents and compares schools on a fairer, more equitable basis. Faith North received a Performing Plus rating under the old accountability system and the letter grade "B" under the new system. ADE defines “B” schools as demonstrating an above average level of performance. Should you have any questions regarding our new label or the new rating system please let me know or you can log onto the Arizona Department of Education website for a more detailed explanation of our new accountability system.
All the best and enjoy the day!
Susan Engdall
Principal
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Events for the week of October 3rd-7th:
5th Parent education evening for primary and elementary parents in the Faith North Multi-Use room at 5:30
10th-14th Autumn break, no school!
Hello Faith North Community,
This week you will notice newly framed information on the importance of the uninterrupted 3 hour work cycles in the Montessori environments in both the office on the main campus as well as the FNM@Shaw campus. We invite you to take a look at this information and consider it when making a decision to pick up your child early or drop them off late. While we know that sometimes situations arise and early pickup or late drop off is unavoidable we would like all parents to be aware of the implications for your child, the other children and the flow of the work cycle. For those of you that are "followers," I have included the information below!
Best Practices in a Montessori Environment
Preserving the uninterrupted three-hour work cycle
What makes Montessori unique?
It’s insistence on freedom within a prepared environment.
We don't "mandate", we "invite", and we "entice".
To do this we must have a 3-hour uninterrupted morning work cycle.
This is one of the basic tenets of a Montessori education.
Maria would have said that any school without this was not doing the work of a Montessori school.
In effective Montessori programs, the school day is structured to provide learners with at least one daily,
uninterrupted work period appropriate to the age level of the children in each class.
At the early childhood level and elementary level,
this has traditionally been understood as a two-and-a-half or three-hour uninterrupted work cycle in the morning.
At the secondary level, this objective may be met in a somewhat different form, but the objective is the same.
The purpose of long, uninterrupted blocks of work time is to allow students to select work freely,
eventually becoming absorbed in work that has a particular fascination for them at this point in their development. Interruptions, no matter how valuable the alternative activity might seem to be,
disturbs the fragile development of the child’s focus, concentration, and intellectual exploration of their own.
Please join us Wednesday night for a presentation of the Grace and Courtesy in the elementary years. It promises to be fun and informative!
The week of October 10th-14th school will be closed for autumn break. The weather promises to be beautiful. Get out and have a fun staycation with your child seeing Phoenix, visiting delightful places and enjoying one another!
All the best!
Susan Engdall
Principal
5th Parent education evening for primary and elementary parents in the Faith North Multi-Use room at 5:30
10th-14th Autumn break, no school!
Hello Faith North Community,
This week you will notice newly framed information on the importance of the uninterrupted 3 hour work cycles in the Montessori environments in both the office on the main campus as well as the FNM@Shaw campus. We invite you to take a look at this information and consider it when making a decision to pick up your child early or drop them off late. While we know that sometimes situations arise and early pickup or late drop off is unavoidable we would like all parents to be aware of the implications for your child, the other children and the flow of the work cycle. For those of you that are "followers," I have included the information below!
Best Practices in a Montessori Environment
Preserving the uninterrupted three-hour work cycle
What makes Montessori unique?
It’s insistence on freedom within a prepared environment.
We don't "mandate", we "invite", and we "entice".
To do this we must have a 3-hour uninterrupted morning work cycle.
This is one of the basic tenets of a Montessori education.
Maria would have said that any school without this was not doing the work of a Montessori school.
In effective Montessori programs, the school day is structured to provide learners with at least one daily,
uninterrupted work period appropriate to the age level of the children in each class.
At the early childhood level and elementary level,
this has traditionally been understood as a two-and-a-half or three-hour uninterrupted work cycle in the morning.
At the secondary level, this objective may be met in a somewhat different form, but the objective is the same.
The purpose of long, uninterrupted blocks of work time is to allow students to select work freely,
eventually becoming absorbed in work that has a particular fascination for them at this point in their development. Interruptions, no matter how valuable the alternative activity might seem to be,
disturbs the fragile development of the child’s focus, concentration, and intellectual exploration of their own.
Please join us Wednesday night for a presentation of the Grace and Courtesy in the elementary years. It promises to be fun and informative!
The week of October 10th-14th school will be closed for autumn break. The weather promises to be beautiful. Get out and have a fun staycation with your child seeing Phoenix, visiting delightful places and enjoying one another!
All the best!
Susan Engdall
Principal
Friday, September 23, 2011
Events for the week of September 26-30
Wednesday the 28th Events Planning Meeting 8:00 FN office
Thursday the 29th AM and PM Kid's Sale to support the upper elementary Washington D.C. trip
Friday the 30th AM and PM Kid's Sale to support the upper elementary Washington D.C. trip
Hello Faith North Community!
A big thank you to all who attended last evenings Board Study Session. Dialogue was begun with regards to the planning and healthy expansion of the Montessori program as well as the identification of a free standing campus.
The Position Statement created by the work from our Site Council reads:
There is a need to develop a 3-5 year strategy for the Montessori program in order to provide an exceptional, state recognized program.
*Elimination of school within a school model
*Continue to grow a free standing school to allow for continued program expansion
*Continued support for Montessori teacher training, until there is a solid local option, continue to send teachers out of state for training
We need to provide excellent customer service, as parents have many options in the area for education, we would like to increase retention.
Coming together as a community to assist the administration in our district in making strong, sound decisions to accomplish this goal will be necessary as we move through the process this year. As meetings continue for planning, you have the opportunity for your voice to be heard. Our Site Council meetings will be one forum to discuss and plan a shared vision. We hope to see you at our next meeting on Wednesday, October 19th at 5:00 in the media center at FNM@Shaw.
10 more school days until autumn break! Just does not seem possible.
All the best,
Susan Engdall
Principal
Wednesday the 28th Events Planning Meeting 8:00 FN office
Thursday the 29th AM and PM Kid's Sale to support the upper elementary Washington D.C. trip
Friday the 30th AM and PM Kid's Sale to support the upper elementary Washington D.C. trip
Hello Faith North Community!
A big thank you to all who attended last evenings Board Study Session. Dialogue was begun with regards to the planning and healthy expansion of the Montessori program as well as the identification of a free standing campus.
The Position Statement created by the work from our Site Council reads:
There is a need to develop a 3-5 year strategy for the Montessori program in order to provide an exceptional, state recognized program.
*Elimination of school within a school model
*Continue to grow a free standing school to allow for continued program expansion
*Continued support for Montessori teacher training, until there is a solid local option, continue to send teachers out of state for training
We need to provide excellent customer service, as parents have many options in the area for education, we would like to increase retention.
Coming together as a community to assist the administration in our district in making strong, sound decisions to accomplish this goal will be necessary as we move through the process this year. As meetings continue for planning, you have the opportunity for your voice to be heard. Our Site Council meetings will be one forum to discuss and plan a shared vision. We hope to see you at our next meeting on Wednesday, October 19th at 5:00 in the media center at FNM@Shaw.
10 more school days until autumn break! Just does not seem possible.
All the best,
Susan Engdall
Principal
Friday, September 16, 2011
Calendar for the week of September 19th-September 23rd
Wednesday the 21st Mom's Night at The Vig Fundraiser. Come to the Vig located at 16th St and Bethany Home to enjoy food and fun with the ladies. 20% of what we spend will be returned to Faith North!
Thursday the 22nd and Friday the 23rd--Parent/Teacher Conferences
Thursday the 22nd Board Study Session on the Montessori Program, 5:30 in the governing board meeting located at 1817 N 7th Street.
Friday the 23rd, 6:30, Evening at the Ballpark. Proceeds to help offset the cost of the Washington DC trip for our upper elementary students.
Hello Faith North Community,
This week many of our after school classes began. It was fun to see so many children participating this time. Most classes filled with the exception of our Etiquette class which we will try another time.
On Wednesday evening we were treated to a primary parent education evening, "Passport to Montessori." The turn out was simply amazing. So many new and returning parents attended. The staff presented the areas found in each of the primary classrooms and an overview of the work of the child as well as extensions for the home. If you did not receive an email with these suggestions, please let your child's teacher know and they can provide you with a paper copy.
Our elementary education evening is coming up on Wednesday, October 7th at 6:00, FN Multi-Use room. The staff and students will be presenting Grace and Courtesy in the elementary years. It sounds like and informative and fun presentation! Mark your calendars.
We look forward to seeing all of you on either Thursday or Friday for Parent/Teacher Conferences as our children present their portfolios to you and show you their work of the fist six weeks of school. Teachers will be presenting your child's progress reports.
All the best!
Susan Engdall
Principal
Wednesday the 21st Mom's Night at The Vig Fundraiser. Come to the Vig located at 16th St and Bethany Home to enjoy food and fun with the ladies. 20% of what we spend will be returned to Faith North!
Thursday the 22nd and Friday the 23rd--Parent/Teacher Conferences
Thursday the 22nd Board Study Session on the Montessori Program, 5:30 in the governing board meeting located at 1817 N 7th Street.
Friday the 23rd, 6:30, Evening at the Ballpark. Proceeds to help offset the cost of the Washington DC trip for our upper elementary students.
Hello Faith North Community,
This week many of our after school classes began. It was fun to see so many children participating this time. Most classes filled with the exception of our Etiquette class which we will try another time.
On Wednesday evening we were treated to a primary parent education evening, "Passport to Montessori." The turn out was simply amazing. So many new and returning parents attended. The staff presented the areas found in each of the primary classrooms and an overview of the work of the child as well as extensions for the home. If you did not receive an email with these suggestions, please let your child's teacher know and they can provide you with a paper copy.
Our elementary education evening is coming up on Wednesday, October 7th at 6:00, FN Multi-Use room. The staff and students will be presenting Grace and Courtesy in the elementary years. It sounds like and informative and fun presentation! Mark your calendars.
We look forward to seeing all of you on either Thursday or Friday for Parent/Teacher Conferences as our children present their portfolios to you and show you their work of the fist six weeks of school. Teachers will be presenting your child's progress reports.
All the best!
Susan Engdall
Principal
Friday, September 9, 2011
Events for the week of September 12th-16th
Monday the 12th afterschool classes begin
Wednesday the 14th at 5:30 Passport to Montessori for primary parents on the FNM@Shaw campus
Thursday the 15th Fresh and Easy Fundraiser from 4-8, Indiana School and 7th Avenue
Friday Camp Sparky visits the upper elementary classes on the FN campus to share Biology projects!
Preparing for the Tenth Anniversary of 9/11 with our children
As we near the tenth anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, it is natural that we
pause to remember that tragic moment in history. We who were old
enough to know about and remember the images on TV, the heroism of fellow
citizens sacrificing life and limb to save the lives of others, and the subsequent
debate about how America should respond cannot help but re-experience some
of the thoughts and feelings we had in those September days a decade ago.
We may also remember the “fight or flight” responses that gripped our country
then. Some were eager to fight back; some wanted to flee the new reality,
pretending that the conflict was only the aberrant behavior of a few misguided
criminals. Some, however, found the resources for a deeper look at the situation.
Vietnamese peace activist Thich Nhat Hanh remembered his
meetings with American government officials during the height of the Vietnam
War, and said, “I was able to see that the real enemy of man is not man. The real
enemy is our ignorance, discrimination, fear, craving, and violence.”
Donna Bryant Goertz, a fellow Montessorian writes, “Our children need to understand how people can differ on issues, while respecting one another as fellow human beings. Whatever our heated adult passions, we owe our children the benefit of our cultivated abilities for cool analysis and balanced commentary. Our efforts will not only
benefit us as well as them. Living with children in the best way is the best
thing we can do for ourselves.
With children as our constant witnesses, we should live the value of
variety and inclusion, the ethic of compassion. Nothing we do to
support the child's self-development and education is as important as
those convictions; no math, geometry, or history deserves more emphasis.
And those values cannot be learned as subjects in class but must be lived
deeply in the home, neighborhood, and school through the responses of
adults of character to their encounters in daily life.
These unusual times are our opportunity to model the understanding, appreciation, and practice of something our children may not encounter without our deliberate intention: working urgently for our own cause rather than fighting viciously against someone else's. Our home and school communities may be the only place our children
continue to experience adults persevering for a cause rather than attacking
the causes of others.”
The Story of Human Love
by John R. Snyder
[This story can be told to children of ages 6-12. It comes after one of the Great Stories of the Montessori elementary, “The Coming of Human Beings.” In that story, the question is posed, “If human beings are not the biggest, strongest, fastest creatures – if they cannot swim like the fish or fly like the birds, what are their special gifts?”]
“Remember the story about how we humans first came to live on earth
and about our three special gifts of Human Intelligence, Human Hands, and
Human Love? We humans have intelligence instead of instinct to guide us
through life. Unlike the animals that are driven by instinct, we can choose how to
live, depending on our circumstances.
Many times we make wrong choices! Sometimes our love grows weak and we
practice slavery or war or vengeance. Sometimes we make things better for
ourselves but worse for other people, plants and animals, air and water.
Sometimes we unfairly take more and more for ourselves, leaving less and less
for others. Sometimes we exclude people who are different or difficult.
Yet, often our love joins with our intelligence to make something beautiful and
wholesome. Nothing we know in the universe is as powerful as great
intelligence guided by great love.
What have we learned about our gift of human love? We humans love our
families, friends, and neighbors; we have even learned to love them as much as
we love ourselves. We have a special love for our children and would give our
lives for them. Some of us would even give our lives for a friend.
We have learned to love those we cannot see, those who live far away. We have
learned to love those who came before us and those who will come in the future.
We have learned to love those we don’t understand, those whose ways and ideas
upset us. We have learned to love those we cannot even like, those who are so
sick and wounded in their minds and hearts that they hurt or even kill other
people. We have even been learning to love our enemies, but that takes our
greatest effort and constant practice.
We have learned that love is not just a feeling; it’s not just liking someone very
much. Love is also an action; it’s acting for the good of the loved one. This is
how we can love people we haven’t met or don’t like. This is why love is
measured by what we do, not by what we say.
We humans love our earth with all its plants and animals, its lands and waters,
and its skies. We like to think new thoughts and ideas, exploring, discovering,
and inventing. Sometimes we get so excited about loving things and ideas that
we forget about loving people. We are learning to remember.
Our human hands are the tools of our love and intelligence. With our minds and
hearts we imagine a better world, and with our hands we make it so! The more
we make and the more we do, the more skillful our hands become and the more
intelligent our minds become.
Sometimes our love grows weak and we misuse our intelligence and skill to
bring destruction to nature and to other people. This is a great tragedy, but we
can always turn around and do better, for that is our nature, too – to always seek
to improve.
Our gifts are so strong! We continue to work together to know how to use them
wisely and for the good of all. Little by little, we human beings are learning to
use our gift of love as it was truly meant to be used.
Peace to you,
Susan Engdall
Principal
Monday the 12th afterschool classes begin
Wednesday the 14th at 5:30 Passport to Montessori for primary parents on the FNM@Shaw campus
Thursday the 15th Fresh and Easy Fundraiser from 4-8, Indiana School and 7th Avenue
Friday Camp Sparky visits the upper elementary classes on the FN campus to share Biology projects!
Preparing for the Tenth Anniversary of 9/11 with our children
As we near the tenth anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, it is natural that we
pause to remember that tragic moment in history. We who were old
enough to know about and remember the images on TV, the heroism of fellow
citizens sacrificing life and limb to save the lives of others, and the subsequent
debate about how America should respond cannot help but re-experience some
of the thoughts and feelings we had in those September days a decade ago.
We may also remember the “fight or flight” responses that gripped our country
then. Some were eager to fight back; some wanted to flee the new reality,
pretending that the conflict was only the aberrant behavior of a few misguided
criminals. Some, however, found the resources for a deeper look at the situation.
Vietnamese peace activist Thich Nhat Hanh remembered his
meetings with American government officials during the height of the Vietnam
War, and said, “I was able to see that the real enemy of man is not man. The real
enemy is our ignorance, discrimination, fear, craving, and violence.”
Donna Bryant Goertz, a fellow Montessorian writes, “Our children need to understand how people can differ on issues, while respecting one another as fellow human beings. Whatever our heated adult passions, we owe our children the benefit of our cultivated abilities for cool analysis and balanced commentary. Our efforts will not only
benefit us as well as them. Living with children in the best way is the best
thing we can do for ourselves.
With children as our constant witnesses, we should live the value of
variety and inclusion, the ethic of compassion. Nothing we do to
support the child's self-development and education is as important as
those convictions; no math, geometry, or history deserves more emphasis.
And those values cannot be learned as subjects in class but must be lived
deeply in the home, neighborhood, and school through the responses of
adults of character to their encounters in daily life.
These unusual times are our opportunity to model the understanding, appreciation, and practice of something our children may not encounter without our deliberate intention: working urgently for our own cause rather than fighting viciously against someone else's. Our home and school communities may be the only place our children
continue to experience adults persevering for a cause rather than attacking
the causes of others.”
The Story of Human Love
by John R. Snyder
[This story can be told to children of ages 6-12. It comes after one of the Great Stories of the Montessori elementary, “The Coming of Human Beings.” In that story, the question is posed, “If human beings are not the biggest, strongest, fastest creatures – if they cannot swim like the fish or fly like the birds, what are their special gifts?”]
“Remember the story about how we humans first came to live on earth
and about our three special gifts of Human Intelligence, Human Hands, and
Human Love? We humans have intelligence instead of instinct to guide us
through life. Unlike the animals that are driven by instinct, we can choose how to
live, depending on our circumstances.
Many times we make wrong choices! Sometimes our love grows weak and we
practice slavery or war or vengeance. Sometimes we make things better for
ourselves but worse for other people, plants and animals, air and water.
Sometimes we unfairly take more and more for ourselves, leaving less and less
for others. Sometimes we exclude people who are different or difficult.
Yet, often our love joins with our intelligence to make something beautiful and
wholesome. Nothing we know in the universe is as powerful as great
intelligence guided by great love.
What have we learned about our gift of human love? We humans love our
families, friends, and neighbors; we have even learned to love them as much as
we love ourselves. We have a special love for our children and would give our
lives for them. Some of us would even give our lives for a friend.
We have learned to love those we cannot see, those who live far away. We have
learned to love those who came before us and those who will come in the future.
We have learned to love those we don’t understand, those whose ways and ideas
upset us. We have learned to love those we cannot even like, those who are so
sick and wounded in their minds and hearts that they hurt or even kill other
people. We have even been learning to love our enemies, but that takes our
greatest effort and constant practice.
We have learned that love is not just a feeling; it’s not just liking someone very
much. Love is also an action; it’s acting for the good of the loved one. This is
how we can love people we haven’t met or don’t like. This is why love is
measured by what we do, not by what we say.
We humans love our earth with all its plants and animals, its lands and waters,
and its skies. We like to think new thoughts and ideas, exploring, discovering,
and inventing. Sometimes we get so excited about loving things and ideas that
we forget about loving people. We are learning to remember.
Our human hands are the tools of our love and intelligence. With our minds and
hearts we imagine a better world, and with our hands we make it so! The more
we make and the more we do, the more skillful our hands become and the more
intelligent our minds become.
Sometimes our love grows weak and we misuse our intelligence and skill to
bring destruction to nature and to other people. This is a great tragedy, but we
can always turn around and do better, for that is our nature, too – to always seek
to improve.
Our gifts are so strong! We continue to work together to know how to use them
wisely and for the good of all. Little by little, we human beings are learning to
use our gift of love as it was truly meant to be used.
Peace to you,
Susan Engdall
Principal
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Activities for the week of September 5-9
Monday the 5th, no school, happy labor day!
Tuesday the 6th JumpBunch trial class in the AM on the main campus
Wednesday the 7th JumpBunch trail class in the AM at FNM@Shaw/ Site Council-5:00/PTA-6:00 meetings on the main campus
Thursday the 8th free trial dance class by Twinkle Toes Dance Studio 3:30 in the Faith North media center
Friday the 9th Salad Spectacular Community get together beginning at 5:30 on the main campus
Hello Faith North Community,
We are finally complete! All of our 3 and 4 year olds have begun and the classrooms are humming along. There are a few lingering boohoos, but the Montessori magic is beginning to work and the children are eager and engaged!
The warm weather has temporarily shut down our outdoor environment on both campuses. We are hoping to reopen them when school resumes next Tuesday. Additionally, the excessive heat warnings have halted outdoor play. PE is being held in the multi-use room at North and the gymnasium at Shaw. A few classrooms are opting for early morning recess to relieve some of the pent up energy but we will all be glad when we can use our outdoor area as fall out space for work, play and lessons.
Wednesday evening, September 7th the Faith North Site Council will be hearing and discussing ideas for campus expansion and/or relocation. This information will be offered to our governing board at a study session on September 22nd in the district governing board room located at 1817 N. 7th Street at 6:00. Come join us, we would love to hear your thoughts.
Please be sure to join us on Friday evening, September 9th for our first community event of the year, our annual Salad Spectacular. This event is a salad potluck that begins at 5:30. Bring a salad to share and come meet old and new friends. The event coordinators have planned some unmissable activities such as tile painting, tie dying and a plant walk. We look forward to seeing you there.
Have a great long weekend and we will see you back at school on Tuesday, September 6th.
All the best,
Susan Engdall
Principal
Monday the 5th, no school, happy labor day!
Tuesday the 6th JumpBunch trial class in the AM on the main campus
Wednesday the 7th JumpBunch trail class in the AM at FNM@Shaw/ Site Council-5:00/PTA-6:00 meetings on the main campus
Thursday the 8th free trial dance class by Twinkle Toes Dance Studio 3:30 in the Faith North media center
Friday the 9th Salad Spectacular Community get together beginning at 5:30 on the main campus
Hello Faith North Community,
We are finally complete! All of our 3 and 4 year olds have begun and the classrooms are humming along. There are a few lingering boohoos, but the Montessori magic is beginning to work and the children are eager and engaged!
The warm weather has temporarily shut down our outdoor environment on both campuses. We are hoping to reopen them when school resumes next Tuesday. Additionally, the excessive heat warnings have halted outdoor play. PE is being held in the multi-use room at North and the gymnasium at Shaw. A few classrooms are opting for early morning recess to relieve some of the pent up energy but we will all be glad when we can use our outdoor area as fall out space for work, play and lessons.
Wednesday evening, September 7th the Faith North Site Council will be hearing and discussing ideas for campus expansion and/or relocation. This information will be offered to our governing board at a study session on September 22nd in the district governing board room located at 1817 N. 7th Street at 6:00. Come join us, we would love to hear your thoughts.
Please be sure to join us on Friday evening, September 9th for our first community event of the year, our annual Salad Spectacular. This event is a salad potluck that begins at 5:30. Bring a salad to share and come meet old and new friends. The event coordinators have planned some unmissable activities such as tile painting, tie dying and a plant walk. We look forward to seeing you there.
Have a great long weekend and we will see you back at school on Tuesday, September 6th.
All the best,
Susan Engdall
Principal
Friday, August 19, 2011
This weeks events:
Monday, August 22 4 year olds begin
Wednesday, August 24 8:30 Events Committee Meeting, 8:30 FN office
Thursday, August 25 PESD Governing Board Meeting
Hello Faith North Community,
What do cows do on Friday nights? They go to the mooooovies! Luca age 5, has arrived at the sensitive period for word play. I remember vividly when my own now teen son was this age. In the evenings at bath time, I would sit in the comfy chair that was tub side and pull some well used joke books from beneath the cushions and we would spend the next 30 minutes dissolving in laughter. Typically our session would end with him experimenting with his own jokes that were not so funny----but very precious.
This week we had our second Boo Hoo breakfast. We consoled and assured some crying mom's that this too would pass and that the children would move through this process to independence faster than they probably would. Thank you to the veteran parents who attended to make friends with some of our new families.
We also had our first Site Council and PTA meeting on our Shaw campus. It was a great turnout with some new faces. It promises to be a busy and productive year with both groups. Our next meeting will be on the main campus on Wednesday, September 7th.
Last night we had a huge turn out for an informational meeting on the upper elementary trip end of year to Washington DC. We discussed logistics, cost, accommodations, transportation, planning, fundraising and saw a beautiful power point presentation produced by the 6th years. The students will be planning and fund raising for most of the year. The trip is scheduled to take place the first week of May.
All the best,
Susan Engdall
Principal
Monday, August 22 4 year olds begin
Wednesday, August 24 8:30 Events Committee Meeting, 8:30 FN office
Thursday, August 25 PESD Governing Board Meeting
Hello Faith North Community,
What do cows do on Friday nights? They go to the mooooovies! Luca age 5, has arrived at the sensitive period for word play. I remember vividly when my own now teen son was this age. In the evenings at bath time, I would sit in the comfy chair that was tub side and pull some well used joke books from beneath the cushions and we would spend the next 30 minutes dissolving in laughter. Typically our session would end with him experimenting with his own jokes that were not so funny----but very precious.
This week we had our second Boo Hoo breakfast. We consoled and assured some crying mom's that this too would pass and that the children would move through this process to independence faster than they probably would. Thank you to the veteran parents who attended to make friends with some of our new families.
We also had our first Site Council and PTA meeting on our Shaw campus. It was a great turnout with some new faces. It promises to be a busy and productive year with both groups. Our next meeting will be on the main campus on Wednesday, September 7th.
Last night we had a huge turn out for an informational meeting on the upper elementary trip end of year to Washington DC. We discussed logistics, cost, accommodations, transportation, planning, fundraising and saw a beautiful power point presentation produced by the 6th years. The students will be planning and fund raising for most of the year. The trip is scheduled to take place the first week of May.
All the best,
Susan Engdall
Principal
Friday, August 5, 2011
Hello Faith North Community,
What a week it has been. The children could not wait to get back to work! It has been a beautiful, industrious opening of the school year. The transition of levels for our 1st years, 4th years and 7th years have been supported by mentors and the children already seem quite comfortable with the demands of a new classroom environment.
This week Chase Bank presented our school with a large donation of school supplies. The Sky Harbor and downtown divisions worked together to gather everything from glue sticks to hand sanitizer, pencils to sponges. We really appreciate their support and generosity.
The added morning student drop off area along 9th Street has been a welcome relief for parents in a hurry. The west gates to the school are open between 7:50 and 8:20. Students are greeted by a Faith North staff member and sent to the multi-use room to wait with classmates for their teachers. This has significantly reduced the traffic in the parking lot and saves the space for the parents of our youngest students as well as parents that might need to attend to business with a teacher or the school office.
Next Weeks Events:
Monday, August 8th we welcome our first group of 3 year olds!
Tuesday, August 9th AIMSWeb testing (literacy based assessments for k-3)at our FNM@Shaw campus
Wednesday, August 10th AIMSWeb testing (literacy based assessments for k-3) at our FN campus
Thursday, August 11th Governing Board Meeting at PESD District Office, 6:00 PM
All the best,
Susan Engdall
Principal
What a week it has been. The children could not wait to get back to work! It has been a beautiful, industrious opening of the school year. The transition of levels for our 1st years, 4th years and 7th years have been supported by mentors and the children already seem quite comfortable with the demands of a new classroom environment.
This week Chase Bank presented our school with a large donation of school supplies. The Sky Harbor and downtown divisions worked together to gather everything from glue sticks to hand sanitizer, pencils to sponges. We really appreciate their support and generosity.
The added morning student drop off area along 9th Street has been a welcome relief for parents in a hurry. The west gates to the school are open between 7:50 and 8:20. Students are greeted by a Faith North staff member and sent to the multi-use room to wait with classmates for their teachers. This has significantly reduced the traffic in the parking lot and saves the space for the parents of our youngest students as well as parents that might need to attend to business with a teacher or the school office.
Next Weeks Events:
Monday, August 8th we welcome our first group of 3 year olds!
Tuesday, August 9th AIMSWeb testing (literacy based assessments for k-3)at our FNM@Shaw campus
Wednesday, August 10th AIMSWeb testing (literacy based assessments for k-3) at our FN campus
Thursday, August 11th Governing Board Meeting at PESD District Office, 6:00 PM
All the best,
Susan Engdall
Principal
Saturday, July 30, 2011
Hello Faith North Community,
Only 4 days until the start of school and we can hardly wait to see you! There have been some exciting changes since you left. We have new computer cabling, new tile and new carpet in some areas. Mr. Sal has been working extra hard to prepare the classrooms and the teachers have created inviting environments.
This year the staff at Faith North is prepared to go paperless. The new district and school website will provide you with updated information. There you will find forms and documents you may need, newsletters, flyers for events, staff contact information as well as an interactive school and district calendar. Email parents for each classroom will ensure that information from the school and classrooms reach you. We would like to see 100% inclusion with our electronic mailings. We welcome your comments as to how we are doing with this project.
Another new process; in the interest of further reducing traffic congestion in the school parking lot, you may now drop off students (kindergarten-8th grade) in the student loading and unloading area located along 9th Street. The gates will be unlocked and open from 7:50 AM until 8:20 AM. Students may not be dropped off in this area before or after these times as there will not be staff available. In the event that the gates are closed, please proceed to the school parking lot for drop off.
I know you will join us on Monday, August 1st for our "Back to School Night" for parents only in your child's clasroom. We welcome our primary parents from 4:00-5:00, lower elementary parents from 5:00-6:00, upper elementary parents from 6:00-7:00 and middle school parents from 7:00-8:00. Your child's teacher has a very infomative presentation for you. You will also be asked to update your student's records. Then, you will find some great people and information in each school cafeteria. Please join us after your time in the classrooms.
All the best,
Susan Engdall
Principal
Only 4 days until the start of school and we can hardly wait to see you! There have been some exciting changes since you left. We have new computer cabling, new tile and new carpet in some areas. Mr. Sal has been working extra hard to prepare the classrooms and the teachers have created inviting environments.
This year the staff at Faith North is prepared to go paperless. The new district and school website will provide you with updated information. There you will find forms and documents you may need, newsletters, flyers for events, staff contact information as well as an interactive school and district calendar. Email parents for each classroom will ensure that information from the school and classrooms reach you. We would like to see 100% inclusion with our electronic mailings. We welcome your comments as to how we are doing with this project.
Another new process; in the interest of further reducing traffic congestion in the school parking lot, you may now drop off students (kindergarten-8th grade) in the student loading and unloading area located along 9th Street. The gates will be unlocked and open from 7:50 AM until 8:20 AM. Students may not be dropped off in this area before or after these times as there will not be staff available. In the event that the gates are closed, please proceed to the school parking lot for drop off.
I know you will join us on Monday, August 1st for our "Back to School Night" for parents only in your child's clasroom. We welcome our primary parents from 4:00-5:00, lower elementary parents from 5:00-6:00, upper elementary parents from 6:00-7:00 and middle school parents from 7:00-8:00. Your child's teacher has a very infomative presentation for you. You will also be asked to update your student's records. Then, you will find some great people and information in each school cafeteria. Please join us after your time in the classrooms.
All the best,
Susan Engdall
Principal
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
May 25, 2011
Dear Montessori Community,
As we close out this school year and plan for the next one, I would like to share changes in staffing.
I can announce that we are losing the following teachers:
• Ms. Jennifer Matthews, a middle school teacher, will be moving back to Washington State to join her husband!
• Ms. Rosalinda Siciliano, lower elementary teacher will be seeking new endeavors and we wish her the best of luck!
Each of these individuals have brought great value to our children and their colleagues. They will be greatly missed.
Here are the staffing plans for next year:
Faith North and Faith North@Shaw Principal: Susan Engdall
Faith North Primary Teaching Staff: Ms. Marisa Punchios, Ms. Jodi Schramm, Miss Robin Miller
Faith North Junior Elementary Teaching Staff: Mrs. GiHwa Hughes, Ms. Wendy Silver and a vacancy
Faith North Senior Elementary Staff: Ms. Gina Roam and Ms. Brenda Chacon
Faith North Adolescent Program 7/8: Ms.Shayne Sotelo
FNM@Shaw Montessori Primary: Ms. Jennifer Valverde, Miss Krista Whiting, Mrs. Kiran Mahli and Mrs. Megan Trezise
FNM@Shaw Junior Elementary Staff: Mr. Chris Euzarraga and Miss Paula Craig (1st-4th grade)
FNM@Shaw 1-6th grade: Ms. Leisla Church
Montessori Resource Specialist: Ms. Tonia Downing-Easton
Special Education Resource: FNM@Shaw: Mrs. Yolanda Wheelington
Art: Angela Damore FNM@Shaw: Jennifer Plowman
Music: Mr. Robert London, services to both campuses
PE: Mr. Steven Larson FNM@Shaw Patsy Harvey
Reading Intervention Specialist: Crystal Graham
Please join us on Monday, August 1st for Back to School Parent Night to be held simultaneously on both campuses. This evening is designed for parent information purposes only. Children should not attend. Times are as follows: primary 4:00-5:00, lower elementary 5:00-6:00, upper elementary 6:00-7:00, middle school 7:00-8:00. Tables will be set up to assist you with PEER Club, bus schedules, PTA, Site Council and other school information.
Should you have any questions please feel free to contact me at (602) 257-4069.
2011-2012 class lists will be posted on May 26th. Class supply lists will be posted on teacher blogs.
Wishing you a warm and delightful summer. See you in August!
Susan Engdall
Principal
PESD Montessori Programs
Dear Montessori Community,
As we close out this school year and plan for the next one, I would like to share changes in staffing.
I can announce that we are losing the following teachers:
• Ms. Jennifer Matthews, a middle school teacher, will be moving back to Washington State to join her husband!
• Ms. Rosalinda Siciliano, lower elementary teacher will be seeking new endeavors and we wish her the best of luck!
Each of these individuals have brought great value to our children and their colleagues. They will be greatly missed.
Here are the staffing plans for next year:
Faith North and Faith North@Shaw Principal: Susan Engdall
Faith North Primary Teaching Staff: Ms. Marisa Punchios, Ms. Jodi Schramm, Miss Robin Miller
Faith North Junior Elementary Teaching Staff: Mrs. GiHwa Hughes, Ms. Wendy Silver and a vacancy
Faith North Senior Elementary Staff: Ms. Gina Roam and Ms. Brenda Chacon
Faith North Adolescent Program 7/8: Ms.Shayne Sotelo
FNM@Shaw Montessori Primary: Ms. Jennifer Valverde, Miss Krista Whiting, Mrs. Kiran Mahli and Mrs. Megan Trezise
FNM@Shaw Junior Elementary Staff: Mr. Chris Euzarraga and Miss Paula Craig (1st-4th grade)
FNM@Shaw 1-6th grade: Ms. Leisla Church
Montessori Resource Specialist: Ms. Tonia Downing-Easton
Special Education Resource: FNM@Shaw: Mrs. Yolanda Wheelington
Art: Angela Damore FNM@Shaw: Jennifer Plowman
Music: Mr. Robert London, services to both campuses
PE: Mr. Steven Larson FNM@Shaw Patsy Harvey
Reading Intervention Specialist: Crystal Graham
Please join us on Monday, August 1st for Back to School Parent Night to be held simultaneously on both campuses. This evening is designed for parent information purposes only. Children should not attend. Times are as follows: primary 4:00-5:00, lower elementary 5:00-6:00, upper elementary 6:00-7:00, middle school 7:00-8:00. Tables will be set up to assist you with PEER Club, bus schedules, PTA, Site Council and other school information.
Should you have any questions please feel free to contact me at (602) 257-4069.
2011-2012 class lists will be posted on May 26th. Class supply lists will be posted on teacher blogs.
Wishing you a warm and delightful summer. See you in August!
Susan Engdall
Principal
PESD Montessori Programs
Friday, May 13, 2011
The North Star Community Edition
Faith North Montessori and Faith North Montessori at Shaw
602-257-3914
Calendar of Events for week of
May 16-20
Saturday, May 14th
Volunteer Picnic at Margret T. Hance Park 11:00-2:00. Lunch provided by our PTA.
Monday, May 16
Tuesday, May 17
Talent Show Rehearsal North Multi-Use Room 1:00
Wednesday, May 18
Early release
Thursday, May 19
Thursday the 19th Middle School play, “The Beauty and the Beast” in the multi-use room at North. Two performances 10:00-11:15 and 1:00-2:15.
Friday, May 20
Friday, May 20th Basket Raffle/Potluck/Talent Show. Potluck begins at 5:30. Talent Show and Basket Raffle begin at 6:00. See you all there!
Hello Faith North Community,
This week, our upper elementary children went on a three day Catalina Island adventure. Their learning experiences were, exciting, adventurous and unpredictable! They snorkeled, fished, learned about seismology, tectonics and brought back pressure cups that were used in an experiment on water pressure. They learned about the different dolphin species that can be found along the coast and observed the sea lions. On the Ecology Hike they learned about invasive species, fennel, as well as native plant and animal life and sustainability. They enjoyed the independence and the community building. Many fun memories were made while the food received mixed reviews!
Please join us next Friday for our annual end of the year event the Potluck/Basket Raffle/Talent Show as the Faith North children share some amazing hidden talents. The potluck begins at 5:30 and the show will begin at 6:00. Baskets will be raffled between acts.
Year books went on sale this week and they are remarkable. This year they are fully colored. Many of our school events were captured and the book is chalked full of many candid photographs of the children, parents and staff at work and play. Books may be purchased before and after school. They will also be on sale in the Faith North office.
All the best!
Susan Engdall
Principal
Some events to look forward to:
Water Day at FNM@Shaw on the 24th-schedule forthcoming
Water Day at North on the 26th: 8:30-10:20 Primary, 10:30-12:30 Lower El, 12:30-2:30Upper El, 1:30-3:20 Middle School
23rd PJ Day & Kinder Promotion at Shaw
24th Mixed Up Clothing Day & Kinder Promotion at North
25th Crazy Hair Day & Middle school promotion
Faith North Montessori and Faith North Montessori at Shaw
602-257-3914
Calendar of Events for week of
May 16-20
Saturday, May 14th
Volunteer Picnic at Margret T. Hance Park 11:00-2:00. Lunch provided by our PTA.
Monday, May 16
Tuesday, May 17
Talent Show Rehearsal North Multi-Use Room 1:00
Wednesday, May 18
Early release
Thursday, May 19
Thursday the 19th Middle School play, “The Beauty and the Beast” in the multi-use room at North. Two performances 10:00-11:15 and 1:00-2:15.
Friday, May 20
Friday, May 20th Basket Raffle/Potluck/Talent Show. Potluck begins at 5:30. Talent Show and Basket Raffle begin at 6:00. See you all there!
Hello Faith North Community,
This week, our upper elementary children went on a three day Catalina Island adventure. Their learning experiences were, exciting, adventurous and unpredictable! They snorkeled, fished, learned about seismology, tectonics and brought back pressure cups that were used in an experiment on water pressure. They learned about the different dolphin species that can be found along the coast and observed the sea lions. On the Ecology Hike they learned about invasive species, fennel, as well as native plant and animal life and sustainability. They enjoyed the independence and the community building. Many fun memories were made while the food received mixed reviews!
Please join us next Friday for our annual end of the year event the Potluck/Basket Raffle/Talent Show as the Faith North children share some amazing hidden talents. The potluck begins at 5:30 and the show will begin at 6:00. Baskets will be raffled between acts.
Year books went on sale this week and they are remarkable. This year they are fully colored. Many of our school events were captured and the book is chalked full of many candid photographs of the children, parents and staff at work and play. Books may be purchased before and after school. They will also be on sale in the Faith North office.
All the best!
Susan Engdall
Principal
Some events to look forward to:
Water Day at FNM@Shaw on the 24th-schedule forthcoming
Water Day at North on the 26th: 8:30-10:20 Primary, 10:30-12:30 Lower El, 12:30-2:30Upper El, 1:30-3:20 Middle School
23rd PJ Day & Kinder Promotion at Shaw
24th Mixed Up Clothing Day & Kinder Promotion at North
25th Crazy Hair Day & Middle school promotion
Thursday, May 5, 2011
The North Star Community Edition
Faith North Montessori and Faith North Montessori at Shaw
602-257-3914
Calendar of Events for week of
May 9-13
Monday, May 9
Upper Elementary leaves for Ocean Institute
Tuesday, May 10
Wednesday, May 11
DIBELS testing for k-1st graders at North
Early Release
Upper Elementary return from Ocean Institute
Thursday, May 12
Primary children begin to shadow in lower elementary classrooms
Friday, May 13
Saturday, May 14th
Volunteer Picnic at Margret T. Hance Park
Our mission is to provide a solid academic foundation employing the philosophy of Maria Montessori within a loving, respectful and supportive community.
Hello Faith North Community,
This was the most bountiful teacher appreciation week I have seen in my many years of instruction. There was an amazing outpouring of kindness and generosity from our parents and children. The entire staff has enjoyed the breakfast and lunch goodies. Thank you so much for honoring the staff and the work they do. They are truly amazing as are each of you!
Awesome! Super fun! were just two word/phrases used by our 3rd years in response to the day trip to Sky Y to Prescott on Wednesday. They boarded a charter bus at 7:00 AM and spent the day orienteering, learning outdoor survival skills, canoeing and hiking. They learned to play Ga-Ga ball and Take the Tail during free time. The evening brought a campfire with smores. Back onto the bus and back home by 10:30. Thanks to all of our tax credit donors that helped make this trip possible.
On Monday, our upper elementary children leave for a three day Catalina Island adventure. Their learning experiences will be, learning about underwater seismology, underwater archaeology and coring. They will be building small subs and experimenting with wave physics, energy transfer and water chemistry. The last day they will go on an Island Ecology Tour. Thanks to our tax credits bus transportation has been provided for the students and staff. I am sure many memories will be made during these three days.
Several fun events to note as the school year draws to a close:
14th Volunteer Picnic at Hance Park
20th Talent Show/Potluck/Basket Raffle
23rd kindergarten promotion at FNM@Shaw at 6:00 also PJ Day
24th Kindergarten promotion at North at 6:00 also Mixed Up Clothing Day & Water Day at FNM@Shaw
25th Middle School Promotion at 6:00 also Crazy Hair Day
26th Water Day at North and Midle School Dance from 6:00-8:00
All the best!
Susan Engdall
Principal
Faith North Montessori and Faith North Montessori at Shaw
602-257-3914
Calendar of Events for week of
May 9-13
Monday, May 9
Upper Elementary leaves for Ocean Institute
Tuesday, May 10
Wednesday, May 11
DIBELS testing for k-1st graders at North
Early Release
Upper Elementary return from Ocean Institute
Thursday, May 12
Primary children begin to shadow in lower elementary classrooms
Friday, May 13
Saturday, May 14th
Volunteer Picnic at Margret T. Hance Park
Our mission is to provide a solid academic foundation employing the philosophy of Maria Montessori within a loving, respectful and supportive community.
Hello Faith North Community,
This was the most bountiful teacher appreciation week I have seen in my many years of instruction. There was an amazing outpouring of kindness and generosity from our parents and children. The entire staff has enjoyed the breakfast and lunch goodies. Thank you so much for honoring the staff and the work they do. They are truly amazing as are each of you!
Awesome! Super fun! were just two word/phrases used by our 3rd years in response to the day trip to Sky Y to Prescott on Wednesday. They boarded a charter bus at 7:00 AM and spent the day orienteering, learning outdoor survival skills, canoeing and hiking. They learned to play Ga-Ga ball and Take the Tail during free time. The evening brought a campfire with smores. Back onto the bus and back home by 10:30. Thanks to all of our tax credit donors that helped make this trip possible.
On Monday, our upper elementary children leave for a three day Catalina Island adventure. Their learning experiences will be, learning about underwater seismology, underwater archaeology and coring. They will be building small subs and experimenting with wave physics, energy transfer and water chemistry. The last day they will go on an Island Ecology Tour. Thanks to our tax credits bus transportation has been provided for the students and staff. I am sure many memories will be made during these three days.
Several fun events to note as the school year draws to a close:
14th Volunteer Picnic at Hance Park
20th Talent Show/Potluck/Basket Raffle
23rd kindergarten promotion at FNM@Shaw at 6:00 also PJ Day
24th Kindergarten promotion at North at 6:00 also Mixed Up Clothing Day & Water Day at FNM@Shaw
25th Middle School Promotion at 6:00 also Crazy Hair Day
26th Water Day at North and Midle School Dance from 6:00-8:00
All the best!
Susan Engdall
Principal
Friday, April 29, 2011
The North Star Community Edition
Faith North Montessori and Faith North Montessori at Shaw
602-257-3914
Calendar of Events for week of
May 2nd-6th
Teacher Appreciation Week
Monday, May 2
Wax Museum in Ms. Chacon’s class 5:30-7:00
Tuesday, May 3
DIBELS testing at Shaw for our k-1st grade students at FNM@Shaw
Wednesday, May 4
Early Release
Site Council/PTA Meeting
3rd grade students day trip to Sky Y
Thursday, May 5
Friday, May 6
Hello Faith North Community,
This week is Teacher Appreciation Week. We, as a community are fortunate to have such dedicated, passionate professionals. Each believe in the unfolding, not the molding, of children. Each watches, listens, and communicates to assess and assist each child’s development of both intellect and independence. They champion the triumphs of each day, removing or easing obstacles. They patiently, flexibly, and compassionately encourage a joyful perseverance in each child. Their teaching is an act of service and humility. Through the creation of routines and traditions, the maintenance of detailed records, and the presentation of broad and deep lessons that illuminate concepts and encourage student discovery, the teacher encourages students’ concentration, reflection, and growth. I know you will take a moment to let them know how much they mean to your child and to you.
All the best!
Susan Engdall
Principal
Faith North Montessori and Faith North Montessori at Shaw
602-257-3914
Calendar of Events for week of
May 2nd-6th
Teacher Appreciation Week
Monday, May 2
Wax Museum in Ms. Chacon’s class 5:30-7:00
Tuesday, May 3
DIBELS testing at Shaw for our k-1st grade students at FNM@Shaw
Wednesday, May 4
Early Release
Site Council/PTA Meeting
3rd grade students day trip to Sky Y
Thursday, May 5
Friday, May 6
Hello Faith North Community,
This week is Teacher Appreciation Week. We, as a community are fortunate to have such dedicated, passionate professionals. Each believe in the unfolding, not the molding, of children. Each watches, listens, and communicates to assess and assist each child’s development of both intellect and independence. They champion the triumphs of each day, removing or easing obstacles. They patiently, flexibly, and compassionately encourage a joyful perseverance in each child. Their teaching is an act of service and humility. Through the creation of routines and traditions, the maintenance of detailed records, and the presentation of broad and deep lessons that illuminate concepts and encourage student discovery, the teacher encourages students’ concentration, reflection, and growth. I know you will take a moment to let them know how much they mean to your child and to you.
All the best!
Susan Engdall
Principal
Thursday, April 21, 2011
The North Star Community Edition
Faith North Montessori and Faith North Montessori at Shaw
602-257-3914
Calendar of Events for week of
April 25-29
Monday, April 25
No School! Enjoy the day!
Tuesday, April 26
Buffalo Soldiers raise the flags at North
Wednesday, April 27
Early Release
Literacy Night at the Phoenix Public Library-Burton Barr
Thursday, April 28
Bus evacuation drill at North-9:30 AM
Friday, April 29
Talent Show Auditions 1:00 in the multi-use room at North
Hello Faith North Community,
A gentle reminder that school will be closed this Friday, April 22nd and Monday, April 25th. School resumes on Tuesday, April 26th. We hope you have a restful and fun long weekend!
Two great events taking place this week are Talent Show auditions which will take place on Friday, April 29th in the multi-use room at North from 1:00-3:00. The students have received permission slips and anyone with a talent is welcome to audition. Please review the rules that govern acts with your student before they attend on Friday. The annual Talent Show/Basket Raffle will be held on the North campus, Friday evening, May 20th from 5:30-7:30. This is also a community potluck event. It is an evening of amazing surprises and a wonderful time to see hidden talent and meet new friend and families. Please plan on joining us.
This Wednesday, April 27 we will hold Literacy Night at the main library-Burton Barr located on Central Avenue just south of McDowell. The evening begins at 5:30 and will include tours of the library, displays of FNM staff picks, scavenger hunts and more. Families will have the opportunity to get library cards and sign up for the summer reading program. We look forward to helping make the library a fun obvious place to spend those long, hot summer days!
All the best!
Susan Engdall
Principal
Faith North Montessori and Faith North Montessori at Shaw
602-257-3914
Calendar of Events for week of
April 25-29
Monday, April 25
No School! Enjoy the day!
Tuesday, April 26
Buffalo Soldiers raise the flags at North
Wednesday, April 27
Early Release
Literacy Night at the Phoenix Public Library-Burton Barr
Thursday, April 28
Bus evacuation drill at North-9:30 AM
Friday, April 29
Talent Show Auditions 1:00 in the multi-use room at North
Hello Faith North Community,
A gentle reminder that school will be closed this Friday, April 22nd and Monday, April 25th. School resumes on Tuesday, April 26th. We hope you have a restful and fun long weekend!
Two great events taking place this week are Talent Show auditions which will take place on Friday, April 29th in the multi-use room at North from 1:00-3:00. The students have received permission slips and anyone with a talent is welcome to audition. Please review the rules that govern acts with your student before they attend on Friday. The annual Talent Show/Basket Raffle will be held on the North campus, Friday evening, May 20th from 5:30-7:30. This is also a community potluck event. It is an evening of amazing surprises and a wonderful time to see hidden talent and meet new friend and families. Please plan on joining us.
This Wednesday, April 27 we will hold Literacy Night at the main library-Burton Barr located on Central Avenue just south of McDowell. The evening begins at 5:30 and will include tours of the library, displays of FNM staff picks, scavenger hunts and more. Families will have the opportunity to get library cards and sign up for the summer reading program. We look forward to helping make the library a fun obvious place to spend those long, hot summer days!
All the best!
Susan Engdall
Principal
Thursday, April 14, 2011
The North Star Community Edition
Faith North Montessori and Faith North Montessori at Shaw
602-257-3914
Calendar of Events for week of
April 18-22
Monday, April 18
AIMS Makeup Tests
Tuesday, April 19
AIMS Makeup Tests
Wednesday, April 20
No Early Release
AIMS Makeup Tests
Thursday, April 21
Friday, April 22
No School
Hello Faith North Community,
LEGO Night was amazing fun. A wide age group of boys (and girls) attended with their moms. There was a LEGO Building Contest, LEGO Throws, LEGO Cake Walk and many children dressed as their favorite LEGO character. We enjoyed hotdogs and decedent sundaes served by our upper elementary classrooms.
We are coming to a close of high stakes testing. The teachers and children have done a splendid job of test administration and test taking. Monday-Wednesday of next week will be used to make up any tests that students missed. Thank you for the great attendance this week.
Please plan to attend our Literacy Night at the Burton Barr Library, April 27 from 5:30-7:30. There will be library tours, games, readers theaters, displays with favorite teacher literature and more. Children may be issued their very own library card and sign up for the summer reading program.
Please remember that there is no school April 22 or 25. We look forward to seeing you again on Tuesday, April 26th.
All the best!
Susan Engdall
Principal
Faith North Montessori and Faith North Montessori at Shaw
602-257-3914
Calendar of Events for week of
April 18-22
Monday, April 18
AIMS Makeup Tests
Tuesday, April 19
AIMS Makeup Tests
Wednesday, April 20
No Early Release
AIMS Makeup Tests
Thursday, April 21
Friday, April 22
No School
Hello Faith North Community,
LEGO Night was amazing fun. A wide age group of boys (and girls) attended with their moms. There was a LEGO Building Contest, LEGO Throws, LEGO Cake Walk and many children dressed as their favorite LEGO character. We enjoyed hotdogs and decedent sundaes served by our upper elementary classrooms.
We are coming to a close of high stakes testing. The teachers and children have done a splendid job of test administration and test taking. Monday-Wednesday of next week will be used to make up any tests that students missed. Thank you for the great attendance this week.
Please plan to attend our Literacy Night at the Burton Barr Library, April 27 from 5:30-7:30. There will be library tours, games, readers theaters, displays with favorite teacher literature and more. Children may be issued their very own library card and sign up for the summer reading program.
Please remember that there is no school April 22 or 25. We look forward to seeing you again on Tuesday, April 26th.
All the best!
Susan Engdall
Principal
Friday, April 8, 2011
The North Star Community Edition
Faith North Montessori and Faith North Montessori at Shaw
602-257-3914
Calendar of Events for week of
April 11-15
Monday, April 11
Stanford 10 begins
Tuesday, April 12
Stanford 10 continues
AIMS -Writing & Science
Wednesday, April 13
AIMS Reading and Math
No early release
Thursday, April 14
AIMS Reading & Math
Friday, April 15
AIMS Reading & Math
Dear Faith North Community,
Tuesday, April 12 thru Thursday, April 21 our student’s grades 3-8 will be taking the State Mandated Arizona Instrument to Measure Standards (AIMS) tests. Our 2nd grade students will be taking the Stanford-10 on Monday, April 11 and Tuesday, April 12th. These tests are used as a measurement of your child’s knowledge on state standards.
The faculty and staff of Faith North & FNM@Shaw have been preparing your child for high stakes testing since their first day of enrollment. This process is made certain by the fact that our curriculum is well aligned to the state standards. Subsequently, this alignment ensures that the everyday work of your child is an ongoing preparation of the skills to pass these tests. Your 3rd-8th child has been reviewing an AIMS booklet with specific examples of the test questions. You may also find additional test review and information on the Department of Education website http://www.ade.state.az.us by clicking on Aims Information Center if you are interested.
Lastly, I ask that you have a discussion with your child on the importance of doing their very best. It is imperative that all students are present during these exam days. Also, make sure your child has received proper rest (9-11 hours) and a nutritious high protein breakfast. If you have any questions regarding this process, please feel free to call my office at (602) 257-4069. On behalf of the PESD Montessori faculty and staff, I want to thank you in advance for your efforts at supporting the best testing environments for our children.
All the best,
Susan Engdall
Faith North Montessori and Faith North Montessori at Shaw
602-257-3914
Calendar of Events for week of
April 11-15
Monday, April 11
Stanford 10 begins
Tuesday, April 12
Stanford 10 continues
AIMS -Writing & Science
Wednesday, April 13
AIMS Reading and Math
No early release
Thursday, April 14
AIMS Reading & Math
Friday, April 15
AIMS Reading & Math
Dear Faith North Community,
Tuesday, April 12 thru Thursday, April 21 our student’s grades 3-8 will be taking the State Mandated Arizona Instrument to Measure Standards (AIMS) tests. Our 2nd grade students will be taking the Stanford-10 on Monday, April 11 and Tuesday, April 12th. These tests are used as a measurement of your child’s knowledge on state standards.
The faculty and staff of Faith North & FNM@Shaw have been preparing your child for high stakes testing since their first day of enrollment. This process is made certain by the fact that our curriculum is well aligned to the state standards. Subsequently, this alignment ensures that the everyday work of your child is an ongoing preparation of the skills to pass these tests. Your 3rd-8th child has been reviewing an AIMS booklet with specific examples of the test questions. You may also find additional test review and information on the Department of Education website http://www.ade.state.az.us by clicking on Aims Information Center if you are interested.
Lastly, I ask that you have a discussion with your child on the importance of doing their very best. It is imperative that all students are present during these exam days. Also, make sure your child has received proper rest (9-11 hours) and a nutritious high protein breakfast. If you have any questions regarding this process, please feel free to call my office at (602) 257-4069. On behalf of the PESD Montessori faculty and staff, I want to thank you in advance for your efforts at supporting the best testing environments for our children.
All the best,
Susan Engdall
Friday, March 25, 2011
The North Star Community Edition
Faith North Montessori and Faith North Montessori at Shaw
602-257-3914
Calendar of Events for week of
March 28-April 1
Monday, March 28
Tuesday, March 29
Wednesday, March 30
Early release
Thursday, March 31
Friday, April 1
Early Release
Conferences of Concern
Hello Faith North Community,
The gardens have come in beautifully this spring. The grape vines are leafing and the citrus trees on our campuses have blooms. The chickens are laying and the weather is perfect to work in the outdoor environments. The children are using the opportunity to spruce up and are also having fun making salads from the lettuce and radishes and smoothies from the beets. They are also enjoying gathering flowers from the garden beds to cheer the classrooms.
This week Ms. Guntermann, our retired, beloved gardener and outdoor environment teacher came back to work with us. She will be helping Ms. Tina on the FNM@Shaw campus. We are so glad she is back!
We enjoyed The Imaginators play from Childs Play yesterday. Thank you to all of our tax credit donors. Because of your generosity, our children get to see great theater right at our own school.
Please note that there are TWO early release days this week. One on Wednesday and one on Friday. Friday afternoon we will hold conferences of concern. Your child's teacher will contact you if a conference is necessary.
All the best!
Susan Engdall
Principal
Faith North Montessori and Faith North Montessori at Shaw
602-257-3914
Calendar of Events for week of
March 28-April 1
Monday, March 28
Tuesday, March 29
Wednesday, March 30
Early release
Thursday, March 31
Friday, April 1
Early Release
Conferences of Concern
Hello Faith North Community,
The gardens have come in beautifully this spring. The grape vines are leafing and the citrus trees on our campuses have blooms. The chickens are laying and the weather is perfect to work in the outdoor environments. The children are using the opportunity to spruce up and are also having fun making salads from the lettuce and radishes and smoothies from the beets. They are also enjoying gathering flowers from the garden beds to cheer the classrooms.
This week Ms. Guntermann, our retired, beloved gardener and outdoor environment teacher came back to work with us. She will be helping Ms. Tina on the FNM@Shaw campus. We are so glad she is back!
We enjoyed The Imaginators play from Childs Play yesterday. Thank you to all of our tax credit donors. Because of your generosity, our children get to see great theater right at our own school.
Please note that there are TWO early release days this week. One on Wednesday and one on Friday. Friday afternoon we will hold conferences of concern. Your child's teacher will contact you if a conference is necessary.
All the best!
Susan Engdall
Principal
Friday, March 18, 2011
The North Star Community Edition
Faith North Montessori and Faith North Montessori at Shaw
602-257-3914
Calendar of Events for week of
March 21-25
Monday, March 21
Tuesday, March 22
Wednesday, March 23
Early release
Thursday, March24
Child’s Play presents “The Imaginators” 1:00 in the Faith North Multi-Use Room
Friday, March 25
Hello Faith North Community,
Hope you can join us this evening for an amazing art event, Salon de Enfant, at the Alwun House located at 1204 East Roosevelt which will feature the artwork of students from the Phoenix Elementary School District. The opening reception is from 4:00-9:00 PM. All artwork is for sale and all money from sales goes directly to the student artists. Refreshments will be served and entertainment will be provided by student musical and dance ensembles. There will also be a special Jackson Pollock presentation. Please join us for the festivities!
Thursday the 24th Child’s Play Theater Group will be presenting The Imaginators a story about Tim and his sister Anne who are new in the neighborhood and desperate to make friends. They meet their imaginative next door neighbor Nina and together they transform their garage into the Kingdom of Garagenia. During this make-believe adventure the children learn about friendship, courage and cooperation, and have lots of fun! The play will be held in the Multi-Use room at North and will be seen by the Children of Faith North and FNM@Shaw.
All the best!
Susan Engdall
Principal
Faith North Montessori and Faith North Montessori at Shaw
602-257-3914
Calendar of Events for week of
March 21-25
Monday, March 21
Tuesday, March 22
Wednesday, March 23
Early release
Thursday, March24
Child’s Play presents “The Imaginators” 1:00 in the Faith North Multi-Use Room
Friday, March 25
Hello Faith North Community,
Hope you can join us this evening for an amazing art event, Salon de Enfant, at the Alwun House located at 1204 East Roosevelt which will feature the artwork of students from the Phoenix Elementary School District. The opening reception is from 4:00-9:00 PM. All artwork is for sale and all money from sales goes directly to the student artists. Refreshments will be served and entertainment will be provided by student musical and dance ensembles. There will also be a special Jackson Pollock presentation. Please join us for the festivities!
Thursday the 24th Child’s Play Theater Group will be presenting The Imaginators a story about Tim and his sister Anne who are new in the neighborhood and desperate to make friends. They meet their imaginative next door neighbor Nina and together they transform their garage into the Kingdom of Garagenia. During this make-believe adventure the children learn about friendship, courage and cooperation, and have lots of fun! The play will be held in the Multi-Use room at North and will be seen by the Children of Faith North and FNM@Shaw.
All the best!
Susan Engdall
Principal
Friday, February 25, 2011
The North Star Community Edition
Faith North Montessori and Faith North Montessori at Shaw
602-257-3914
Calendar of Events for week of
February 28-March 4
Monday, February 28
Tuesday, March 1
District Track Meet at North High School for our 5th and 6th graders 9:00-12:30
Wednesday, March 2
Early release
Site Council/PTA meeting at 5:00 and 6:00
North Campus
Pizza and child care provided
Thursday, March 3
Friday, March 4
District General Music Festival at UPSP
9:30-12:00
Our mission is to provide a solid academic foundation employing the philosophy of Maria Montessori within a loving, respectful and supportive community.
Through Cosmic Education we give the child a vision of the whole universe
All children experience maximum learning potential or windows of optimum learning at various times
All children are motivated to learn, multiple and divergent intelligences are honored and recognized
The celebration and respect of diversity is critical
The child’s hand is his teacher—experiential learning is essential to internalization
The prepared environment is a student centered, learner-centered environment
Self-discipline is achieved through natural consequences and peace education
The dignity of labor and purposeful movement is vital and encouraged
Hello Faith North Community,
Last Friday we had our 2nd annual Father/Daughter Dance. It is truly touching to see the girls with the important guy in their life dancing and enjoying dinner together. The moms provided ham and turkey rollups along with almond butter and jam sandwiches. There were also a lot of pretty pink confections that matched most of the beautiful dresses that were there.
This week is national E-Week (National Engineers Week). In many classrooms we have had engineers doing a lesson on domes.
The children have been discussing variable and predictions then testing their theories with gumdrops and toothpicks. One of the major things they have learned with the engineers is the strength of triangles as opposed to other geometric shapes. Be sure to ask your child about this lesson.
Please join us for our Site Council and PTA meeting this week on Wednesday evening on the Main Campus. The agenda’s for both meetings will be emailed to families early next week.
Please remember that Spring Break is quickly approaching. Our break begins on March 7th and school resumes on the 14th.
All the best!
Susan Engdall
Principal
Faith North Montessori and Faith North Montessori at Shaw
602-257-3914
Calendar of Events for week of
February 28-March 4
Monday, February 28
Tuesday, March 1
District Track Meet at North High School for our 5th and 6th graders 9:00-12:30
Wednesday, March 2
Early release
Site Council/PTA meeting at 5:00 and 6:00
North Campus
Pizza and child care provided
Thursday, March 3
Friday, March 4
District General Music Festival at UPSP
9:30-12:00
Our mission is to provide a solid academic foundation employing the philosophy of Maria Montessori within a loving, respectful and supportive community.
Through Cosmic Education we give the child a vision of the whole universe
All children experience maximum learning potential or windows of optimum learning at various times
All children are motivated to learn, multiple and divergent intelligences are honored and recognized
The celebration and respect of diversity is critical
The child’s hand is his teacher—experiential learning is essential to internalization
The prepared environment is a student centered, learner-centered environment
Self-discipline is achieved through natural consequences and peace education
The dignity of labor and purposeful movement is vital and encouraged
Hello Faith North Community,
Last Friday we had our 2nd annual Father/Daughter Dance. It is truly touching to see the girls with the important guy in their life dancing and enjoying dinner together. The moms provided ham and turkey rollups along with almond butter and jam sandwiches. There were also a lot of pretty pink confections that matched most of the beautiful dresses that were there.
This week is national E-Week (National Engineers Week). In many classrooms we have had engineers doing a lesson on domes.
The children have been discussing variable and predictions then testing their theories with gumdrops and toothpicks. One of the major things they have learned with the engineers is the strength of triangles as opposed to other geometric shapes. Be sure to ask your child about this lesson.
Please join us for our Site Council and PTA meeting this week on Wednesday evening on the Main Campus. The agenda’s for both meetings will be emailed to families early next week.
Please remember that Spring Break is quickly approaching. Our break begins on March 7th and school resumes on the 14th.
All the best!
Susan Engdall
Principal
Friday, February 18, 2011
The North Star Community Edition
Faith North Montessori and Faith North Montessori at Shaw
602-257-3914
Calendar of Events for week of
February 21-25
Monday, February 21
No School
President’s Day
Tuesday, February 22
Galileo testing begins
Wednesday, February 23
Early release
Thursday, February 24
Prospective parent meeting at FNM@Shaw 10:00
5th graders to the Symphony 10:00-11:00
Middle school information meeting 6:00 at Faith North this meeting is for parents of 6th graders or anyone interested in the middle school program
Friday, February 25
Galileo ends
Our mission is to provide a solid academic foundation employing the philosophy of Maria Montessori within a loving, respectful and supportive community.
Through Cosmic Education we give the child a vision of the whole universe
All children experience maximum learning potential or windows of optimum learning at various times
All children are motivated to learn, multiple and divergent intelligences are honored and recognized
The celebration and respect of diversity is critical
The child’s hand is his teacher—experiential learning is essential to internalization
The prepared environment is a student centered, learner-centered environment
Self-discipline is achieved through natural consequences and peace education
The dignity of labor and purposeful movement is vital and encouraged
Hello Faith North Community,
Next week our 2nd-8th graders will be taking Galileo tests. These tests, administered 4 times a year, give our staff benchmark data on each student. This data is used to guide instruction and check academic progression. They also mimic the high stakes testing conditions that will be found as we administer the AIMS in April. You can help prepare your children for a positive testing experience by ensuring that they get plenty of rest this week and have a healthy breakfast that includes protein.
We are looking forward to the 2nd annual Father/Daughter Dance this evening. The dance will be held in the multi-use room at North from 6:00-8:30. It is truly touching to see the girls with the important guy in their life dancing and enjoying dinner together.
The 24th will bring two opportunities for our larger community to learn about our school and program. From 10:00-11:30 we will hold a prospective parent information meeting on our FNM@Shaw campus. We will discuss the primary program and do a brief tour. At 6:00 the middle school staff will have an information meeting on the Montessori Adolescent Program. This program will be held in the Multi-Use room at North and will be an informative overview. This meeting is open to parents of 6th graders or anyone interested in learning more Montessori Middle School.
Enjoy the long weekend! All the best!
Susan Engdall
Principal
Faith North Montessori and Faith North Montessori at Shaw
602-257-3914
Calendar of Events for week of
February 21-25
Monday, February 21
No School
President’s Day
Tuesday, February 22
Galileo testing begins
Wednesday, February 23
Early release
Thursday, February 24
Prospective parent meeting at FNM@Shaw 10:00
5th graders to the Symphony 10:00-11:00
Middle school information meeting 6:00 at Faith North this meeting is for parents of 6th graders or anyone interested in the middle school program
Friday, February 25
Galileo ends
Our mission is to provide a solid academic foundation employing the philosophy of Maria Montessori within a loving, respectful and supportive community.
Through Cosmic Education we give the child a vision of the whole universe
All children experience maximum learning potential or windows of optimum learning at various times
All children are motivated to learn, multiple and divergent intelligences are honored and recognized
The celebration and respect of diversity is critical
The child’s hand is his teacher—experiential learning is essential to internalization
The prepared environment is a student centered, learner-centered environment
Self-discipline is achieved through natural consequences and peace education
The dignity of labor and purposeful movement is vital and encouraged
Hello Faith North Community,
Next week our 2nd-8th graders will be taking Galileo tests. These tests, administered 4 times a year, give our staff benchmark data on each student. This data is used to guide instruction and check academic progression. They also mimic the high stakes testing conditions that will be found as we administer the AIMS in April. You can help prepare your children for a positive testing experience by ensuring that they get plenty of rest this week and have a healthy breakfast that includes protein.
We are looking forward to the 2nd annual Father/Daughter Dance this evening. The dance will be held in the multi-use room at North from 6:00-8:30. It is truly touching to see the girls with the important guy in their life dancing and enjoying dinner together.
The 24th will bring two opportunities for our larger community to learn about our school and program. From 10:00-11:30 we will hold a prospective parent information meeting on our FNM@Shaw campus. We will discuss the primary program and do a brief tour. At 6:00 the middle school staff will have an information meeting on the Montessori Adolescent Program. This program will be held in the Multi-Use room at North and will be an informative overview. This meeting is open to parents of 6th graders or anyone interested in learning more Montessori Middle School.
Enjoy the long weekend! All the best!
Susan Engdall
Principal
Friday, February 11, 2011
The North Star Community Edition
Faith North Montessori and Faith North Montessori at Shaw
602-257-3914
Calendar of Events for week of
February 14-18
Monday, February 14
Happy Valentine’s Day
Tuesday, February 15
Wednesday, February 16
Thursday, February 17
Friday, February 18
Father/Daughter Dance
Faith North Multi-Use Room
Our mission is to provide a solid academic foundation employing the philosophy of Maria Montessori within a loving, respectful and supportive community.
Through Cosmic Education we give the child a vision of the whole universe
All children experience maximum learning potential or windows of optimum learning at various times
All children are motivated to learn, multiple and divergent intelligences are honored and recognized
The celebration and respect of diversity is critical
The child’s hand is his teacher—experiential learning is essential to internalization
The prepared environment is a student centered, learner-centered environment
Self-discipline is achieved through natural consequences and peace education
The dignity of labor and purposeful movement is vital and encouraged
Hello Faith North Community,
What an amazing Science Fair we were treated to last evening. Students in grades 3-8 presented a hypothesis and conclusion to a scientific query of their choosing. The range of projects was vast, vortexes, earth worms, constellations, volcanoes, fruit clocks, rock and minerals just to name a few. My favorite moment came in the late morning before the fair when I overheard two of our middle school students attempting to figure out how display their project when one said to the other, use your frontal lobe to solve this problem. Shortly afterwards they were on their way out with a completed project, just goes to show the power of the frontal lobe.
I would like to thank all of the parents who came to be a part of the audience with their primary or lower elementary child. Part of the fun for the students is explaining their project and there was beautiful articulation of thoughtful projects.
Please join us for our Father/Daughter event to be held on Friday evening, January 18th from 6:00-8:30 in the Faith North Multi-Use room. The cost is $10.00 per family. We hope that the daughters will be accompanied by any adult that they admire. It is worth a trip just to see the amazing dresses and shoes!
Happy Valentines Day and all the best!
Susan Engdall
Principal
Faith North Montessori and Faith North Montessori at Shaw
602-257-3914
Calendar of Events for week of
February 14-18
Monday, February 14
Happy Valentine’s Day
Tuesday, February 15
Wednesday, February 16
Thursday, February 17
Friday, February 18
Father/Daughter Dance
Faith North Multi-Use Room
Our mission is to provide a solid academic foundation employing the philosophy of Maria Montessori within a loving, respectful and supportive community.
Through Cosmic Education we give the child a vision of the whole universe
All children experience maximum learning potential or windows of optimum learning at various times
All children are motivated to learn, multiple and divergent intelligences are honored and recognized
The celebration and respect of diversity is critical
The child’s hand is his teacher—experiential learning is essential to internalization
The prepared environment is a student centered, learner-centered environment
Self-discipline is achieved through natural consequences and peace education
The dignity of labor and purposeful movement is vital and encouraged
Hello Faith North Community,
What an amazing Science Fair we were treated to last evening. Students in grades 3-8 presented a hypothesis and conclusion to a scientific query of their choosing. The range of projects was vast, vortexes, earth worms, constellations, volcanoes, fruit clocks, rock and minerals just to name a few. My favorite moment came in the late morning before the fair when I overheard two of our middle school students attempting to figure out how display their project when one said to the other, use your frontal lobe to solve this problem. Shortly afterwards they were on their way out with a completed project, just goes to show the power of the frontal lobe.
I would like to thank all of the parents who came to be a part of the audience with their primary or lower elementary child. Part of the fun for the students is explaining their project and there was beautiful articulation of thoughtful projects.
Please join us for our Father/Daughter event to be held on Friday evening, January 18th from 6:00-8:30 in the Faith North Multi-Use room. The cost is $10.00 per family. We hope that the daughters will be accompanied by any adult that they admire. It is worth a trip just to see the amazing dresses and shoes!
Happy Valentines Day and all the best!
Susan Engdall
Principal
Friday, February 4, 2011
The North Star Community Edition
Faith North Montessori and Faith North Montessori at Shaw
602-257-3914
Calendar of Events for week of
February 7-11
Monday, February 7
Tuesday, February 8
Wednesday, February 9
Early release
Thursday, February 10
Science Fair in the Multi-Use Room at North 5:00-7:00
Friday, February 11
Dear Faith North Community,
Wow, what a cool and windy week. Passing through the courtyard this week I watched small children running with strips of paper on strings. I stopped curious about what exactly they might have been doing, they had wind catchers! How delightful. They had put glue on the papers and were running with the catchers above their heads catching treasures that the wind brought. Each day I am thankful as I walk through our campuses for the support and diverse learning our children receive in the outdoor environments. These environments would not be possible without a lot of fundraising and the generous contributions from tax credits. Ms. Clark and Ms. Tina are some of the most creative and talented outdoor teachers we have ever had. They are patient and amazingly hardworking---rain or shine.
Please join us on Thursday evening for our Science Fair. It will be held on the Faith North Campus in the multi-use room from 5:00-7:00. Even though our primary thru second graders are not participating, they will learn by observing and being shown the experiments of the older students. We hope to see you there!
All the best,
Susan Engdall
Principal
Faith North Montessori and Faith North Montessori at Shaw
602-257-3914
Calendar of Events for week of
February 7-11
Monday, February 7
Tuesday, February 8
Wednesday, February 9
Early release
Thursday, February 10
Science Fair in the Multi-Use Room at North 5:00-7:00
Friday, February 11
Dear Faith North Community,
Wow, what a cool and windy week. Passing through the courtyard this week I watched small children running with strips of paper on strings. I stopped curious about what exactly they might have been doing, they had wind catchers! How delightful. They had put glue on the papers and were running with the catchers above their heads catching treasures that the wind brought. Each day I am thankful as I walk through our campuses for the support and diverse learning our children receive in the outdoor environments. These environments would not be possible without a lot of fundraising and the generous contributions from tax credits. Ms. Clark and Ms. Tina are some of the most creative and talented outdoor teachers we have ever had. They are patient and amazingly hardworking---rain or shine.
Please join us on Thursday evening for our Science Fair. It will be held on the Faith North Campus in the multi-use room from 5:00-7:00. Even though our primary thru second graders are not participating, they will learn by observing and being shown the experiments of the older students. We hope to see you there!
All the best,
Susan Engdall
Principal
Monday, January 31, 2011
The North Star Community Edition
Faith North Montessori and Faith North Montessori at Shaw
602-257-3914
Calendar of Events for week of
January 31-February 4
Monday, January 31
Tuesday, February 1
Faith North Stars Soccer Team vs. Shaw Sharks, 5:30 at Garfield School
Wednesday, February 2
5:00 Site Council in the media center and 6:00 PTA Meeting in the cafeteria at FNM@Shaw
Early release
Thursday, February 3
Faith North Stars Soccer Team vs. Garfield Cats, 5:00 at Edison School
Friday, February 4
Our mission is to provide a solid academic foundation employing the philosophy of Maria Montessori within a loving, respectful and supportive community.
Through Cosmic Education we give the child a vision of the whole universe
All children experience maximum learning potential or windows of optimum learning at various times
All children are motivated to learn, multiple and divergent intelligences are honored and recognized
The celebration and respect of diversity is critical
The child’s hand is his teacher—experiential learning is essential to internalization
The prepared environment is a student centered, learner-centered environment
Self-discipline is achieved through natural consequences and peace education
The dignity of labor and purposeful movement is vital and encouraged
Dear Faith North Community,
The new after school classes started last week and what a great new line up of fun there is. Some of the new classes are Sabakiball, a high intensity ball game played with soccer like goals that encourages tremendous amounts of running, throwing and team work. Stop by on Thursday afternoon to view this new sport. Ms. Hancock has joined us with her manners class. The children learned about place settings at a formal table as well as how to properly greet someone. Super Singing and Music and Drama were full of voice and enthusiasm and in woodworking the children learned tool names and tool safety; they also received their very own tape measure that will hitch to their belts for easy access. We did not have to cancel any classes due to lack of enrollment this time. There are still spaces available in our Monday Chess Club as well as a few other classes. You may still sign up in the Faith North School office.
I wish to thank all of the families that participated in our Tax Credit Donation program. This was the biggest year for our school. We collected over $30,000.00. This money is used to help support our outdoor environments, our field trips and offset the cost of after school classes.I would like to recognize Shannon Allsworth for her huge effort in getting information out as to the benefits of this program. I know that her work is one of the major reasons for the increase in donations.
We held a Prospective Parent Meeting last week and had about 100 new parents in attendance. Our next meeting is scheduled at FNM@Shaw on Thursday, February 24th at 10:00. If you know of parents that are interested in hearing about our preschool program and touring the campus, this is a great opportunity.
Wishing you all the best,
Susan Engdall
Principal
Faith North Montessori and Faith North Montessori at Shaw
602-257-3914
Calendar of Events for week of
January 31-February 4
Monday, January 31
Tuesday, February 1
Faith North Stars Soccer Team vs. Shaw Sharks, 5:30 at Garfield School
Wednesday, February 2
5:00 Site Council in the media center and 6:00 PTA Meeting in the cafeteria at FNM@Shaw
Early release
Thursday, February 3
Faith North Stars Soccer Team vs. Garfield Cats, 5:00 at Edison School
Friday, February 4
Our mission is to provide a solid academic foundation employing the philosophy of Maria Montessori within a loving, respectful and supportive community.
Through Cosmic Education we give the child a vision of the whole universe
All children experience maximum learning potential or windows of optimum learning at various times
All children are motivated to learn, multiple and divergent intelligences are honored and recognized
The celebration and respect of diversity is critical
The child’s hand is his teacher—experiential learning is essential to internalization
The prepared environment is a student centered, learner-centered environment
Self-discipline is achieved through natural consequences and peace education
The dignity of labor and purposeful movement is vital and encouraged
Dear Faith North Community,
The new after school classes started last week and what a great new line up of fun there is. Some of the new classes are Sabakiball, a high intensity ball game played with soccer like goals that encourages tremendous amounts of running, throwing and team work. Stop by on Thursday afternoon to view this new sport. Ms. Hancock has joined us with her manners class. The children learned about place settings at a formal table as well as how to properly greet someone. Super Singing and Music and Drama were full of voice and enthusiasm and in woodworking the children learned tool names and tool safety; they also received their very own tape measure that will hitch to their belts for easy access. We did not have to cancel any classes due to lack of enrollment this time. There are still spaces available in our Monday Chess Club as well as a few other classes. You may still sign up in the Faith North School office.
I wish to thank all of the families that participated in our Tax Credit Donation program. This was the biggest year for our school. We collected over $30,000.00. This money is used to help support our outdoor environments, our field trips and offset the cost of after school classes.I would like to recognize Shannon Allsworth for her huge effort in getting information out as to the benefits of this program. I know that her work is one of the major reasons for the increase in donations.
We held a Prospective Parent Meeting last week and had about 100 new parents in attendance. Our next meeting is scheduled at FNM@Shaw on Thursday, February 24th at 10:00. If you know of parents that are interested in hearing about our preschool program and touring the campus, this is a great opportunity.
Wishing you all the best,
Susan Engdall
Principal
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Hello Faith North,
It was great to see so many of you on campus last week for parent-teacher conferences. Many years ago when I was in the classroom, one of my students said to me, "Mrs. Engdall, I know why we have conferences, it is to tell our parents how great we are doing....right?" It gave me pause, but I smiled and nodded. Hopefully you heard about the goodness in yours and left with some insight as to how we can partner in your childs education.
We are very excited about our new website. Not only does it have updated information on all fronts, but we will be able to add information at the school level in "real time". Hopefully this is one more way to create a home-school communication link that keeps you posted on what's happening at school. I welcome your celebrations and comments and hope you will find it enjoyable to navigate and read.
As 2010 faded and 2011 came on, Faith North went through several staff changes. Special Education teacher Nancy Grenich has accepted an alternate position with the district. We have a substitute currently in this position, but are actively interviewing for just the right person to join our team. Social worker Pat DeBermuda has gone to our sister school Whittier full time. Meilika Wadley will be coming to work as our new social worker this Thursday. If you have the opportunity, stop by the office and introduce yourself, otherwise, you will be seeing her at the next PTA meeting. Meg Davis, IA for Ms. Roam has also resigned for personal reasons. We hope to have a replacement soon. Lastly, Tonie Basulto has left the postion of Outdoor Environment Teacher at Shaw. Tina LaMora has stepped in full time---thank you Tina.
All the best,
Susan Engdall
Principal
Calendar of Events:
January 17-21
January 17 No School MLK Holiday
January 19 Early release
It was great to see so many of you on campus last week for parent-teacher conferences. Many years ago when I was in the classroom, one of my students said to me, "Mrs. Engdall, I know why we have conferences, it is to tell our parents how great we are doing....right?" It gave me pause, but I smiled and nodded. Hopefully you heard about the goodness in yours and left with some insight as to how we can partner in your childs education.
We are very excited about our new website. Not only does it have updated information on all fronts, but we will be able to add information at the school level in "real time". Hopefully this is one more way to create a home-school communication link that keeps you posted on what's happening at school. I welcome your celebrations and comments and hope you will find it enjoyable to navigate and read.
As 2010 faded and 2011 came on, Faith North went through several staff changes. Special Education teacher Nancy Grenich has accepted an alternate position with the district. We have a substitute currently in this position, but are actively interviewing for just the right person to join our team. Social worker Pat DeBermuda has gone to our sister school Whittier full time. Meilika Wadley will be coming to work as our new social worker this Thursday. If you have the opportunity, stop by the office and introduce yourself, otherwise, you will be seeing her at the next PTA meeting. Meg Davis, IA for Ms. Roam has also resigned for personal reasons. We hope to have a replacement soon. Lastly, Tonie Basulto has left the postion of Outdoor Environment Teacher at Shaw. Tina LaMora has stepped in full time---thank you Tina.
All the best,
Susan Engdall
Principal
Calendar of Events:
January 17-21
January 17 No School MLK Holiday
January 19 Early release
Friday, January 7, 2011
Welcome back!
The return from the holiday break is a bit like the first day of the school year. Everyone is eager and a bit nervous about being back but the mid year magic begins to occur. There is renewed joy and vigor in the work of the children. It can be likened to the train that chugs up the side of a steep mountain from August thru December than from January until May experiences a rapid decent. The volume, speed and complexity of work increases and the children grow exponentially. This month you will be invited to a parent education evening called "Show Me Night." This evening of education will be presented by your child in her classroom on Wednesday, January 26th. Times are indicated by your students last name initial.
Faith North A-L 5:00-6:00 M-Z 6:00-7:00
FNM@Shaw M-Z 5:00-6:00 A-L 6:00-7:00.
Come experience some of the joy and vigor with us!
We look forward to seeing you then.
All the best,
Susan Engdall
Principal
Events for the week of January 10th-14th
January 10th Afterschool sign ups begin in the Faith North office
January 11th-Sakiball demonstration 11:30-12:45 at FNM and 1:00-2:00 at FNM@Shaw
January 11th Spelling Bee rehearsal 10:00 Faith North Multi-use room
January 12th Spelling Bee in the Faith North Multi-use room from 8:30-?
January 12th Early Release
January 13th & 14th Early Release for Parent/Teacher Conferences
The return from the holiday break is a bit like the first day of the school year. Everyone is eager and a bit nervous about being back but the mid year magic begins to occur. There is renewed joy and vigor in the work of the children. It can be likened to the train that chugs up the side of a steep mountain from August thru December than from January until May experiences a rapid decent. The volume, speed and complexity of work increases and the children grow exponentially. This month you will be invited to a parent education evening called "Show Me Night." This evening of education will be presented by your child in her classroom on Wednesday, January 26th. Times are indicated by your students last name initial.
Faith North A-L 5:00-6:00 M-Z 6:00-7:00
FNM@Shaw M-Z 5:00-6:00 A-L 6:00-7:00.
Come experience some of the joy and vigor with us!
We look forward to seeing you then.
All the best,
Susan Engdall
Principal
Events for the week of January 10th-14th
January 10th Afterschool sign ups begin in the Faith North office
January 11th-Sakiball demonstration 11:30-12:45 at FNM and 1:00-2:00 at FNM@Shaw
January 11th Spelling Bee rehearsal 10:00 Faith North Multi-use room
January 12th Spelling Bee in the Faith North Multi-use room from 8:30-?
January 12th Early Release
January 13th & 14th Early Release for Parent/Teacher Conferences
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