"As different as we are from one another, as unique as each one of us is, we are much more the same than we are different. That may be the most essential message of all, as we help our children grow toward being caring, compassionate, and charitable adults." - Mr. Rogers
 

In our Montessori community, celebrations bring opportunities to practice tolerance, gratitude, and appreciation of diversity. Through stories, music and art, the guides share information about various global festivals and fiestas like Diwali, Day of the Dead, Lunar New Year, Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Kwanza or Eid. Learning about those fosters peace, inclusivity and builds connections among classmates. More commercial in nature celebrations like Halloween or Valentine's are left to be enjoyed outside the school environment. 

Birthdays have a very specific way of being shared with the child’s community. Through the “Walk Around the Sun” the child holds a globe and walks in a circle as many time as their age is. This can be emphasized by sharing pictures and milestones or events in the child’s life. Instead of focusing on receiving gifts, the child has an opportunity to give back to their community by donating a book, a plant or some supplies. Older classmates might create cards or write letters to the birthday child.

Grace and courtesy lessons allow for modeling an invitation to join, introducing oneself, polite conversations, usage of cutlery and cloth napkin, offering food and drink or maintaining eye contact. Practical life activities prepare the child to be an independent and contributing community member, one who can prepare decorations for the celebrations and assist in getting food items ready for family and friends.

With the departure of Rachel and Jennifer we have CMS staff Lynn O'Connor and Jennifer McGowan filling in their positions until permanent staff will be placed. If you have questions regarding enrollment please contact: admissions@community-montessori.org For inquiries related to finances please send an email to: business@community-montessori.org   Thank you! 

Staff Highlights 

This year we will be introducing you to a different staff member each week. We look forward to sharing things like why they love CMS, how they were introduced to the Montessori philosophy, and what they enjoy doing when they are not at school.

Q) How long have you worked at CMS?
A) I’ve been at CMS for 5 years! I started as an assistant in the Sunflower Community and I am currently the Guide in the Poppy Community. 

Q) How did you come to discover Montessori and how has it impacted your life?
A)  When I became a mother, I was sure I would be a gentle parent. When that didn’t work for me, I started researching what I truly valued in my child’s development. Discovering freedom within limits was a game changer for my daughter and I went on from there. 
When the pandemic hit, I found myself subbing in a classroom where I had previously worked. I introduced a few Montessori principles that immediately grounded some of the most frustrated children. They felt calm in a world that was very unsettled and took pride in themselves and their classroom. That “ah-ha” moment sparked a hunger for personal growth, and ultimately led me to pursue employment at a Montessori school. I’ve been at CMS ever since! 

Q) What is something you would recommend for parents?
A) Board games! You are never too young or too old for board games and such! It is a great way to connect with your family, model grace and courtesy, laugh, and build memories. 

Q) What do you do for fun outside of work? 
A) I really love my time with my two children. We love to travel. Especially to see family! I’m also always up for a good day trip! Picnics, food trucks, and live music are always a hard yes! 

CMS CALENDAR REMINDERS

• December 9 - Elementary Winter Concert in the Georgetown Library 5:30 - 6:30
• December 19 - Last day of fall semester
• December 22 - January 5 Winter break, CMS is closed

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