"Light a candle for peace, light a candle for love, light a candle that shines all the way around the world. Light a candle for me, light a candle for you, so the wish of world peace will one day come true!"
This is one of the songs that Lower Elementary children presented at the Winter Concert last week. It was a wonderful event coming together once again as a community; many younger children were truly inspired by their older schoolmates.
It's hard to believe that we are at the end of the fall semester! There has been so much learning, growing independence, taking ownership of work and responsibilities, building connections and inspiring one other for the children and the adults at CMS.
This is also a season of giving and sharing. With the money earned at the International Festival, the Cypress students have purchased food for the Animal Shelter and donated it last week. Thank you for your support!
As we approach the end of the year, it’s natural to pause and reflect. This year has brought many changes, and with change comes growth. While we learn from our challenges, we also know that looking back can keep us from moving forward. I am truly grateful for our CMS community; the children who are the future, the families who trust us every day, and the dedicated staff who work so hard to make each day the best it can be. The changes we’re making are for the better, and I believe our strength comes from working together.
CMS will be closed from 12/22/25 - 1/5/26
We wish you Peace, Joy, Love with family and friends this holiday season, as well as health and prosperity in 2026!
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.
Michelle Gao
Lower Elementary Guide
(at CMS since 2024)
Q) How long have you worked at CMS?
A) This is my second year at CMS. As a Montessori Elementary guide, I truly enjoy connecting with my students every day.
Q) How did you come to discover Montessori and how has it impacted your life?
A) I grew up with a very academic, high-pressure education in China. Montessori attracted me because it supports the whole child. After more than 20 years of learning and practicing Montessori, it has become one of my life’s missions.
Q) What is something you would recommend for parents?
A) A Montessori principle I love is: “Help me do it by myself.” At home, try offering small choices, asking guiding questions, encouraging responsibility, and giving emotional support—rather than making decisions for them. This builds independence and confidence.
Book: Raising Children Compassionately by Marshall B. Rosenberg.
Q) What do you do for fun outside of work?
A) I’m a lifelong learner—I enjoy reading and watching educational talks like TED. I also love exploring nature with my family.
CMS CALENDAR REMINDERS
- December 19 - Last day of fall semester
- December 22 - January 5 Winter break, CMS is closed
- January 5 - All staff training
- January 6 - First Day of Spring Semester
Subscribe to our CMS Calendar: CLICK HERE
The mission of Community Montessori School is to provide authentic Montessori education
in a nature-rich environment that cultivates collaboration, curiosity,
love of learning, and respect for oneself, others, and the world.
