Back to School Family Swim: 2017

Happy first day of school from all of us at Villa di Maria! We are thrilled to have the campus bustling with eager young minds ready to work and grow together. This past Friday, we celebrated the start of the new school year with a VdM tradition: the back to school family swim and snow cone party. Check out all the fun below!Some new families met some returning families, some children reunited with old friends, and all enjoyed Murray's shaved ice on the house. The newness of much of the campus was a source of conversation throughout the night; it just looks so great!The sheer amount of green space for the children to run and play is hard to capture in photos. Children got together for ultimate frisbee on the far east side of campus, where the playing field borders the woods. Other children forged the old trail through the woods once more, while running, chasing, and hiding from friends who can now circle the Elementary building and wind their way between young trees that are becoming well established since being planted last spring. The children were absolutely giddy with glee at their new space!The evening was beautiful and unseasonably cool, but that didn't stop most of the children from taking a swim!

Family photo op!

As the evening wore on, children explored their beloved trees under the moon...... while old friends reconnected and talked about all the exciting changes to come.We were even treated to the first signs of autumn: our very own pumpkin patch, planted on Earth Day last April, which now reveals many colorful gourds to be harvested in a couple months.Let us not overlook all the hard work the Directresses and Assistants have done to get their classrooms ready for today; the whole school campus looks absolutely charming and inviting, both inside and out. Stay tuned for some photos from the first days of school later this week!Be sure to check the blog frequently. Now that school is back in session, we'll be posting four days a week again, including parenting pieces, general updates on VdM and Montessori lessons, kid-friendly recipes, interviews with staff and parents, book recommendations, and more!

Villa di Maria: Summer Campus

If you haven't set foot on Villa di Maria's school grounds since the end of last school year, you are in for a treat! There are many new and exciting ways the campus has changed since June. If you are new to Villa di Maria, we look forward to welcoming you tonight at the New Family Orientation. Take a look below at some of our campus updates...First and foremost, there is a new garden on the southeast side of the school grounds! BSI Contractors built the beautiful fence, compost bins, and raised beds that hold sweet corn, peppers, and tomatoes. The space is neat and tidy, and even has its own watering system. We can't wait to see this garden grow, and to include the children in the process once they are back in school.Signs are also up all around campus. Above, the pavilion as seen from inside the garden, freshly painted and looking sharp!There is so much space in the field where the P3 trailer used to be!There is new fencing up along the north and east edges of the playing field, which will make soccer and kickball games much more enjoyable (you can imagine how many times the ball would have to roll down that hill and into the woods before everyone throws their hands up in exasperation!).

The pavilion, which is even more lovely in person

And last but not least, Hank, who joined his person (Operations Coordinator and Assistant Camp Director) Jeremy for a day at camp. The children loved him so much, and he loved them right back - and let it be known that there are more than a few people hoping for a more permanent school mascot like Hank. We can't wait to see everyone back at school soon!

An Introduction to Sensorial Montessori

One of the foundations of Dr. Montessori's method was the belief that early childhood education would be most helpful if it followed the natural developmental patterns of the child. Such development can be observed from birth, wherein the newborn is quite suddenly plunged into a world of sensation. Over the following months and years, the child unconsciously absorbs sensorial impressions from the environment and integrates them into his developing personality. Montessori's educational materials are based on this natural order of growth and are designed to provide a stimulating, enriching environment to meet the child's changing needs. In this way, Montessori materials are not merely educational materials; they are developmental materials. The sensorial concepts and materials in the Primary Montessori classroom play a crucial role in the child's experience within the classroom and beyond. At birth, the typical infant has all the equipment he will ever need for receiving, recording, and associating sensory impressions.  All of these marvelous instruments are present in the infant so that he can gain crucial sensory information about his world. Impressions are taken in unconsciously at first, received and stored until the conscious mind emerges. It is then that the child begins to discriminate, classify, order, and organize the information received by all his senses. In doing so, he develops his intelligence and adapts to his environment.It is through the senses of touch, taste, sight, smell, and sound that the child studies the environment and makes sense of the qualities and place of the things within it. Only by screening, evaluating, and eventually sorting our impressions can we move about in the environment with safety, confidence, and assurance. This crucial ability to group diverse impressions is called conceptualization.At around age 2 - 2 1/2 years, nature gives the child two important sensitivities: the sensitivity for order and the sensitivity for refinement of the senses. Montessori recognized these sensitivities and designed or borrowed materials for the sensorial area. Thus, the materials in the prepared environment help the child to classify and clarify the many sensory impressions he has received and stored over the first years of life.The Montessori sensorial materials aid in the construction of the child's developing mind by appealing to the child's natural tendency to experience her environment through her senses and movement. With the materials, Montessori sought to provide the child with "a materialized abstraction," or mathematics. Each material clearly and concretely demonstrates abstract mathematical concepts, such as diameter, height, width, length, area, and volume.Montessori was particular about the design of the sensorial materials. If the gradation is measured, the observation becomes methodical and scientific. There is a mathematical component in the sensorial materials that can be seen through these measurable differences; the dimension materials (cylinder blocks, pink tower, brown stairs, and red rods) are all designed with precise mathematical measures that encourage a child to notice linear relationships, square relationships, and abstract ideas.What's fascinating about this is that Guides do not explain these things to the child, but the experience is there and it leaves its indelible impression. As a child perfects his abilities, the order and structure of the material is internalized and becomes a part of the child's growing mathematical mind.Montessori put an idea of something into a material by isolating a quality (for example, largeness, smallness, roughness, smoothness, redness, blueness, shortness, smoothness). There is only one quality in a material, and each piece of scientifically and mathematically designed material allows the child to discover for herself the abstract concept the material is designed to convey. For example, the red rods are the same in every way except in length. This results in the child focusing her mind on that quality alone.Once a child has made the abstraction, the Guide gives the child the language to attach to the experience; the child now has the understanding of the sensations and the words to name them. Instead of teaching these concepts, we are organizing thoughts surrounding them so that the child can communicate ideas. It is at this point that the child can apply the knowledge to the outside world and use it beyond the prepared environment.

Good Books: This is How We Do It

An immensely important part of Montessori education is the concept of the child as a global citizen and his or her role as a larger community of peace. In Dr. Montessori's words: "This is education, understood as a help to life; an education from birth, which feeds a peaceful revolution and unites all in a common aim, attracting them as to a single centre. Mothers, fathers, politicians: all must combine in their respect and help for this delicate work of formation, which the little child carries on in the depth of a profound psychological mystery, under the tutelage of an inner guide. This is the bright new hope for mankind.” (The Absorbent Mind)While there are many wonderful books which encourage this mindset, we've found a new release that is worth checking out: Matt Lamothe's This is How We Do It. Lamothe follows one day in the lives of seven children from around the world - Peru, Uganda, Italy, Russia, Iran, India, and Japan - to highlight the beautiful differences and similarities between all children of the world.From how the children get to school (and even what each of their classrooms look like), to what they eat for breakfast, how they spell their names, how they play, eat, sleep, and spend time with their families, the book is beautifully illustrated and engaging for a wide range of ages.Indeed, very "Montessori" is how the different children help their families at home. This book also illustrates the Montessori values of respecting the wisdom of all cultures and the importance of the concept of positive peace, or the act of having values that are important to humanity such as justice and harmony. Diversity is a key aspect of positive peace in order to guide the world toward a place where these values are defended and promoted for people, regardless of (and in celebration of) individual differences.The final bonus: there are photographs of the real families in the back of the book!

Camp Pegnita: Banzai!

Camp Pegnita is officially over for the summer, with many VdM students extending their summer camp experience throught Camp Lite for the remaining weeks. But we couldn't let another day go by without highlighting Camp Pegnita's main event: Banzai! Banzai (or what's known at Camp Pegnita as Bonsai) celebrates the oldest running camp tradition, and refers to the traditional Japanese toast wishing 10,000 years of life and happiness. By far the favorite and most popular of Camp Pegnita's events, children from the community and school often sign up just for this one day. It's certainly a fun (and messy) one, and this year was no exception!The big event starts in the afternoon, mostly to keep all sorts of food out of the swimming pool! Children gather around the Magic Circle, where they are directed to close their eyes while camp counselors hide all around Villa's campus. The object of the game: to find and collect all seven colors of rubber bands from the various hidden counselors, all while avoiding getting hit with a sock full of flour by the "Temple Guards," five of the fastest, scariest, rowdiest counselors who chase the squealing children.Once children have been tagged, they must head back to the Magic Circle, where all sorts of goodies are poured onto their heads, backs, and shoulders.As you can imagine, many of these treats must be sampled!Once a child has found all seven hidden counselors and each corresponding rubber band, he or she reports to the Camp Director (our very own Megan Eilers) to receive the last clue. Whoever finds the hidden flag first wins Banzai!Somewhere along the way, children are hosed off, which is a big part of the fun:The whole campus smelled like the inside of an ice cream shop by the end of the hour!

Above: the hidden flag...

... found after many attempts, by a determined and driven former Villa student! Congratulations, Beacan!

And thank you to all the counselors, the runners and the pourers, the hiders and the planners. Without you, none of this would be possible!... and thank you to the trusty megaphone, of course! Until next summer!

The Great American Eclipse is Coming- Are You Ready?

photo credit: Space.com

The Great American Eclipse is coming Monday, August 21st, and St. Louis happens to be in the path for perfect viewing of the rare event, finding itself smack in the middle of the "totality band." The event will take place (depending on where you are in the St. Louis area) between approximately 1:15pm and 1:20pm, and will last about 1.5 minutes. This is undoubtedly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and a chance to inspire awe in the universe in our children. We've compiled a few tips on viewing the eclipse below.  Above: Map showing the path of total eclipse (photo credit: GreatAmericanEclipse.com)

Part of what makes this eclipse significant is that for the first time in American history, a total solar eclipse (where the moon will completely obscure the sun from view) will only be seen in the United States. Also of note: it is the first total solar eclipse since 1918 to move from coast to coast. Many of us may have observed partial solar eclipses, but be sure -these are a completely different experience. This one is not to be missed.

During a total solar eclipse, the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, casting its shadow on the ground. Normally, the moon reflects sunbeams off its surface, which is why darkness during a total solar eclipse is like nothing you’ve experienced before. The reflected light will disappear and all other light is blocked out. Because of this, the temperature will drop 10 - 15 degrees quite suddenly, and the sky will appear nighttime-dark (stars will be visible, but it will not be pitch black). Many scientists believe that animals will react to this event as well. Be sure to use all your senses during the eclipse; it may become eerily quiet as birds and insects fall quiet.

To understand the specialness of this day, it is important to reflect upon the universe and its ever-expanding nature:

"The moon wasn’t always where it is now, which makes the coincidence even more special. The moon has really just arrived at the 'sweet spot.' It’s been departing from us ever since its creation four billion years ago, after we were whacked by a Mars-size body that sent white-hot debris arcing into the sky. Spiraling away at the rate of one and a half inches per year, the moon is only now at the correct distance from our planet to make total solar eclipses possible. In just another few hundred million years, total solar eclipses will be over forever." -Wired

So how can you be sure that you and your family are prepared to view this phenomenal event? One important way to prepare for the eclipse is to be sure to have eclipse glasses on hand. They will protect eyes from the damage that could occur from viewing the sun just before and after the total eclipse, and can be bought on Amazon, or at the Science Center (while supplies last).  Just be sure that they are ISO and CE certified. Explain the importance of wearing the glasses to your children beforehand. It is safe to remove eclipse glasses once the sun is completely obscured, but everyone should put them back on once a sliver of sunlight is again visible.

One way to build anticipation with children is to check NASA's official event site, where they will show an eclipse live stream. This will allow for viewing the world’s first live-stream of a total solar eclipse from near-space! There will be many visitors arriving in St. Louis and the surrounding area, so plan out your day in advance, being sure to leave plenty of travel time if you are planning to drive anywhere.

photo credit: HULTON-DEUTSCH COLLECTION/CORBIS/GETTY IMAGES

To find the perfect spot, can enter your location (even your address) at www.stlouiseclipse2017.org to determine best totality viewing sites. And be sure to check out this site for a great list of activities celebrating the event. Let's hope for clear skies on the 21st!

Montessori Mornings

Primary Directress Jessie Braud just can't seem to get enough of the Villa di Maria children! Her friendly face can be seen all summer long in the P1 classroom as she heads up Montessori Mornings, a camp designed for the youngest VdM children. It's a wonderful way for the children to experience a consistent Montessori environment so their transition back to school in August is seamless. It's also an excellent opportunity for them to see their friends, of course! Below, a glimpse into the peaceful classroom. The children consist of a sprinkling from all three classrooms, but because the materials are all the same, their adjustment to a new directress or space is made easier. They also recognize each other from the playground and school events during the school year, of course!Vegetable cutting: an old favorite. Here, a child confesses she will not eat the green beans she takes home; rather, she will feed them to her guinea pig!The outdoor prepared environment is beautiful on cool mornings. There is plenty of shade thanks to large trees and an aptly placed umbrella. Children are often seen working in the open air, where they now have a great view of the pool house, field, and pavilion (in addition to the new vegetable garden - but more on that later!).It's a lovely day for Montessori Mornings. We hope you have a lovely day too!

A Tribute to Dr. Annette Haines

It is with great sadness that we share the death of Dr. Annette Haines, director of the Montessori Training Center since 1989 and advocate for children everywhere. Dr. Haines personally trained hundreds of Montessori Guides from all over the world, including all of the Primary Directresses at Villa di Maria. After a month-long battle with cancer, Dr. Haines left this world in the early morning hours on Saturday, July 22nd surrounded by her loving family.Laura Ceretti-Michelman, Head of VdM, expresses:"There are no words to express the sadness that I (and many, many others) feel. Dr. Haines has done so much for so many of us and for the Montessori community around the world. Annette was an impressive woman of substance. She was strong, fiercely intelligent, endlessly curious, witty and fun. She also dedicated so much of her life working tirelessly to train teachers, mentor trainers in training, support AMI and to bring more high-quality Montessori to the world. David Kahn, a Montessori legend in his own right referred to Dr. Haines as a 'Montessori Goddess.' I think he was right. Dr. Haines will be sorely missed but I know that Robyn and Lakshmi will work alongside Dr. Haines' husband, Lew, to do all they can to ensure that Dr. Haines’ legacy is preserved and to ensure that her vision of Montessori in St. Louis (and maybe around the world) is realized."Dr. Haines was loved by so many, who describe her as uplifting, inspiring, and captivating, with a marvelous mind. She had a passion for Montessori, but also expressed interest in conservation of natural resources, children, and animals (and horses in particular, as she and her husband Lewis owned and managed Red Fox Paso Finos, where they bred, trained and showed Paso Fino horses since 1995).The outpouring of love for Haines was evident at her viewing and funeral, which took place last weekend. Of the Villa di Maria staff, many wanted to share memories and thoughts of their late mentor and friend.Rebecca Callander, Upper Elementary Directress:"Seventeen years ago, before I had chosen to take the path of Montessori, and feeling decidedly unclear on whether or not I should pursue Elementary Education, I sat in a theory lecture by Dr. Haines on Freedom and Discipline, when the training center was at CMS.  I had observed a lower elementary room for several hours and, while moved by the experience, was also a little skeptical because it seemed a little too good to be true, a little too crunchy. 

Upon hearing my reservations, Anita Chastain recommended that I sit in on a lecture by Dr. Haines to see the deeper side of Montessori. And, boy was it deep. I was so taken by Dr. Haines' intellect, clarity of vision, and commitment to the theory and pedagogy of Montessori--what I had been concerned was missing. I left the lecture feeling electrified and clear that Montessori was the way, not only for me, but for all children.  

I will forever cherish the memories of her hosting the first seven of our new Upper Elementary class at her farm in 2012.  She took us all around and photographed each child sitting so proudly on their horses. Indeed, she wanted one of them, Lorenzo, to come back again so he could care for her barn cats!  

And finally, I was honored to work with her on the Pearl Gallery project. During openings, I was in awe of Annette's ability to engage with the art crowd - always asking questions of artists, offering reflections - she possessed a seemingly insatiable curiosity for culture, artwork, and beauty. Her commitment to the intersection of art and life and Montessori was palpable. 

These are my reflections- her passing is such sad news and will be felt deeply by Villa and all in the Montessori community. She filled a space in our collective Montessori hearts that cannot be replaced.  Indeed, she resonated with so many of us.  We are so fortunate to have had Dr. Haines be such a strong part of Villa di Maria’s legacy and of her friendship with our school.  So many lives touched and transformed by Dr. Haines."                           Cristina Kerr, Primary Assistant:"The impact that Dr. Haines had over my life is pretty big. She is the reason I returned to the US to finish the training...I could not have imagined changing training centers and learning under another trainer, it was out of the question. Her brilliance and wisdom got under my skin so deeply that nothing could have shaken it off me. I had to return to continue with her, no matter how many barriers there were in the way -and there were many. Oh but it was so worth it...She just was the best. When I found out I could not return to continue the training with her,  she was very supportive and encouraged me not to give up my dream."

 Heather Steinman, Primary Directress:

"To me, Dr. Haines was larger than life. The first time I met her I was working as an assistant in Robyn's classroom. There was an AMI consultation that year at Villa and Dr. Haines was the consultant. I was new to the job and knew very little as to what I was doing. On the day of the consultation, Dr. Haines flowed in and out of our room a few times to observe. Each time I tried to make sure everything looked "just right" and that all of the children were busy, things were clean, etc. At one point, as I flitted around the room nervously, I felt a presence approaching behind me and then a soft, stern voice say in my ear..."sit down." I didn't even turn around, I sat down in the next chair I could find and I have been sitting ever since. With two words she taught me one of the most important things I've ever learned in the world of Montessori. While I would come to learn the how and why of it over the years I still hear her voice telling me to sit when I am in the children's way. 

I am grateful for that. And so many other lessons that she taught me.

The finality of knowing that she is gone has been hard to reckon with but I realized today as all of her trainees stood up at her funeral that she is not gone at all. And she never will be. She is indeed larger than life, and I feel so honored to be a part of keeping her here on earth for others to experience through my work with children and their families."   

Maria Burr, Development Director:

"Annette had such a tremendous impact on my life. She was a great friend, mentor, and my guiding light. She was such a gift to this world, and I am deeply grateful for the time I had to get to know her. Annette was such an inspiration to so many people, but, I find comfort in knowing that her work will carry on exponentially around the world."

Robyn Milos, former Primary Directress and Director of Education:

"I have so many memorable moments of the past 18 years that I have had Dr. Annette Haines as my mentor and friend. When asked to share one now, I realize I must set aside my own need for privacy to share an intimate and personal but most impactful memory with you.

 When I was in the first summer of my Primary Montessori teacher training, I was a young mother of two young boys. I was well into the course when suddenly, my personal life fell apart in an instant. Having been up all night and in tears every minute of that night, I found myself at a complete loss for what to do. I did the only thing I knew, I got dressed, drove across the river, and went to training. As I entered the building and was greeted by Dr. Haines, she invited me into her office to see if I was alright. After listening to my story, sharing her confident words of wisdom-which included ‘get a position in a Montessori classroom right away’, she looked at my swollen eyes and said this “Now, let’s go and do some Sound Boxes.”

We stood up together and walked, head-held-high, into a full room of eager learners and she presented a lesson on Sound Boxes (a sensorial material that aids in refinement of the auditory sense). I tightened my boot straps and held my strength with Montessori as my spine, holding me upright. I focused on the purposeful work of Montessori and within, found all the things I needed.

In this time of tremendous loss, Dr. Haines’ true intellect has been revealed. The stories being shared, world-wide, of how she changed the lives of so many are nothing short of astonishing. Her gift of being able to cast a light for each one of them, to show them just what they needed and nothing more, changed their lives.

In my life, I have used that sentiment of wisdom many times to help others when they needed a light cast on their inner strength. As we mourn the loss of Dr. Annette Haines, a true Montessori Giant, I know exactly what she would say to us. “Now, let’s go do some Sound Boxes.”                  

In an interview she conducted with Baan Dek Montessori, Dr. Haines shares her favorite Montessori quote:

"My favorite quote comes from a little pamphlet called “Peace and Education.” In it she talks about how our age represents a time of crisis…a period of passage from one era to another comparable only to the opening of a new biological or geological period in which new conditions of life will be realized which have never existed before. The natural boundaries of mountains, deserts and seas no longer limit man, “now that he can fly over them.” (1975, p. 30) In this new age, she says, “laws and treaties” will not be enough; the limits will have to come from within.  For this, we need a fundamental change in education, for —

“the child who has never learned to act alone, to direct his own actions, to govern his own will, grows into an adult who is easily led and must lean upon others. (1975, p. 23.)”

She also shared her favorites from the 1946 Lectures:

"Just imagine what a society would be like that was quiet, a society without movement. Think what would happen if all men stopped moving – if only for one week. What would happen? Everyone would die. It is not a question of social life, but of work. It is not a question of individual gymnastics. If the whole society of men all over the world made nothing but uncoordinated, jerky movements they would die in a short time. All their energies would be consumed for nothing.

Society is a complex arrangement of individuals, each of whom moves differently from the other. Keep in mind the construction of the world – each organism moves to suit its own purpose. Imagine what it would be like if all the plants stopped moving. There would be no more fruit or flowers – there would be too much poisonous gas in the air. If everything stopped – if the birds remained motionless in the trees or if the insects fluttered to the ground and remained still, if the wild beasts did not move through the jungle or if the fish stopped swimming in the water – what a terrible world it would be. 

Immobilization is impossible. Nature gives a useful purpose to each animal. This is the philosophy of movement: all life is movement. Each organism has its own movement for its own purpose. The creation of the world is a harmony of all these purposeful movements."

She will be greatly missed, but we are certain that her legacy will carry on through those she inspired, trained, and touched.In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the scholarship fund at the Montessori Training Center of St. Louis, for children to attend the Montessori Lab School of St. Louis.

Introduction to Care of the Environment

Within the Primary classrooms where we are introduced to practical life work and lessons, care of the environment is a key component to the relationship and connection young children have to their space. Such a relationship is important to foster early on; the Directress and Assistant are not to be seen tidying up within the classroom during the day, as it is the children's role to care for their environment. Such ownership is integral to the workings of the Children's House.Here is what Dr. Montessori had to say about the topic:"The children of three years of age in the 'Children's Houses' learn and carry out such work as sweeping, dusting, making things tidy, setting the table for meals, waiting at table, washing the dishes, etc., and at the same time they learn to attend to their own personal needs, to wash themselves, to take showers, to comb their hair, to take a bath, to dress and undress themselves, to hang up their clothes in the wardrobe, or to put them in drawers, to polish their shoes. These exercises are part of the method of education, and do not depend on the social position of the pupils; even in the 'Children's Houses' attended by rich children who are given every kind of assistance at home, and who are accustomed to being surrounded by a crowd of servants, take part in the exercises of practical life . This has a truly educational, not utilitarian purpose. The reaction of the children may be described as a 'burst of independence' of all unnecessary assistance that suppresses their activity and prevents them from demonstrating their own capacities. It is just – these 'independent' children of ours who learn to write at the age of four and a half years, who learn to read spontaneously, and who amaze everyone by their progress in arithmetic." (From Childhood to Adolescence, p. 66)Part of the role of the Directress in this area is to help each child develop her awareness of the environment by continually providing them with points of interest. For example, a Directress may say, "Oh my! Our plants look dry. We should water them!" or "Look, there is rice on the floor. We should sweep it up!" When a child is aware of his environment and takes ownership over the space, he will begin to truly care for it.Oftentimes, the youngest child will notice a spill on the floor and clean it up without prompting. As a child grows older, she will shift from the mindset of doing the work just to do it, to doing the work with a greater understanding of all who are positively affected by her work. When a child washes dishes, she washes dishes that someone else has dirtied. When she irons cloths, she is ironing the cloths that other children have washed. The work a child does in service to others is a hallmark of Montessori, and lays the foundation for the Grace and Courtesy for the following years. This larger cycle of activity benefits the whole group, which leads to an unconscious society of cohesion. Such is the beauty and harmony of the cohesive working community within each classroom.

A Glimpse into Camp Pegnita

We're more than halfway through summer break, and the fun at Camp Pegnita is going strong! The swimming, the games, the songs, the friends - check out what these kids have been up to below. The Elementary building is the place to be in the morning! Every day during drop-off, friends gather in the shade and pack like sardines onto the porch swing that faces Magic Circle. Catching up and socializing first thing in the morning is a favorite way to start the day.Perhaps the favorite part of most campers' day: swim time! Children receive group swim lessons, honing their kicking skills on the wall, practicing swimming the length of the pool, and trying to pass the deep water swim test (which requires that swimmers be strong enough to tread water for at least one minute). But don't worry; those who don't pass still have a blast in the shallow area of the pool, where they can touch the bottom of the pool easily!The new and improved space surrounding the pool has made all the difference in the world! There are more tables with umbrellas for shade, benches, more deck space, and most important, the pool house, which offers changing rooms and restrooms right next to the pool. How did we survive without it?The school grounds are looking beautiful. Those flowers the Villa di Maria Primary children planted on Earth Day are going strong! Many are quite tall now, and the gardens are bursting with color. Look at how tiny these pink zinnias used to be only three months ago!In addition to all the fun and games, campers practice their archery skills daily. This is a favorite, which they take quite seriously. There is, after all, the "Golden Arrow" award to try for!The friendly camp counselors are always quick to wave hello. Many of them were once Pegnita campers years ago!Let us not forget that Camp Pegnita is celebrating 70 years of summer fun. Though the campus has grown and changed, many of the traditions have remained the same, and it is wonderful to see parents, who were once campers themselves, dropping off their children to experience the same fun they remember having as kids. What a fantastic place to make memories!Check back in next week for a glimpse into Montessori Mornings to see our youngest campers learning, socializing, working, and enjoying themselves within the Montessori Primary Classroom.

An Introduction to Practical Life

We hope you are enjoying your summer break so far, and especially lately, that you are finding ways to stay cool! For the remainder of the summer, be sure to check in weekly as we will cover some "introduction to" topics, designed for those who are new to Montessori or have children entering a Primary classroom this coming fall. Today, we discuss an introduction to practical life in the primary classroom. When the smallest child enters a primary classroom for the first time, he will be introduced to the practical life area of the prepared environment before other lessons. The practical life exercises are comforting to a child, as they are familiar and relatable; these are the objects and work they have seen at home but may not have had the opportunity to participate in just yet. There are also many differences between the home environment and the prepared school environment, such as the use of old fashioned mechanisms (like the washing board and basin) instead of newer technology (like a washing machine).These exercises are motives for activity. In other words, they are exercises that are preliminary, and show a child how to do things without holding real purpose in and of themselves. Instead, these activities prepare the child for more complex lessons to come, while helping a child acquire the coordination needed for more complex work. These preliminary exercises build upon a child's control of movement, attention span, concentration, and self-control.All of the practical life lessons tune in to a child of this age and his need and desire for movement. A child of this developmental stage has an urge to refine movement, and is thus attracted to it. Later, these activities are undertaken for different reasons - namely, the knowledge that this work needs to be done for the good of the group.First activities, such as carrying a tray, opening a door, rolling a rug, or walking around a mat, draw attention to a child's body movements. These activities, which seem simple to us, provide a child with precise and helpful feedback, guiding him to perfect his movements at just the time when he is inclined to do so.There are two lessons that provide no other purpose than for movement itself: walking the line and the silence game. During walking the line, control and coordination of the body is met with grace, balance, and poise. In Primary Guide Jessie Braud's class, walking the line is accompanied by soft classical music. It is used in transition periods and works wonders to coordinate quiet concentration amidst a larger group of young children, signaling a class-wide shift.Exercises of practical life also include lessons on grace and courtesy: how to cover your mouth when you sneeze, how to pass in front of another child, how to knock on a door and wait for someone to open it, how to greet others, how to introduce someone. Emphasis is always placed on the personal dignity of the child and the respect of individual rights. Through work in practical life, a child learns to adapt to her new community."The children of three years of age in the 'Children's Houses' learn and carry out such work as sweeping, dusting, making things tidy, setting the table for meals, waiting at table, washing the dishes, etc ., and at the same time they learn to attend to their own personal needs, to wash themselves, to take showers, to comb their hair, to take a bath, to dress and undress themselves, to hang up their clothes in the wardrobe, or to put them in drawers, to polish their shoes. These exercises are part of the method of education, and do not depend on the social position of the pupils; even in the 'Children's Houses' attended by rich children who are given every kind of assistance at home, and who are accustomed to being surrounded by a crowd of servants, take part in the exercises of practical life. This has a truly educational, not utilitarian purpose. The reaction of the children may be described as a "burst of independence" of all unnecessary assistance that suppresses their activity and prevents them from demonstrating their own capacities. It is just – these 'independent' children of ours who learn to write at the age of four and a half years, who learn to read spontaneously, and who amaze everyone by their progress in arithmetic." (From Childhood to Adolescence, Dr. Maria Montessori)

Graduate Highlight: Kat

For the last speech (minus one graduate, who opted out of sharing his speech here, which we completely respect), sixth year graduate Kat shares her educational experiences thus far, and how she found her niche among the VdM community. Enjoy her words below!Today, I’m graduating from sixth grade. Coming all this way hasn’t been extremely hard, but like all achievements, it required changes, both in me, and world around me.I’m like a non-human animal in more ways than just my nickname, Kat. Specifically, having to adapt while changing ecosystems. Each one being more competitive than the last, I had to evolve as I grew. It all started eleven years, seven months, and twenty-six days ago . . .I was born in an east coast state, in Norfolk, Virginia. I don’t remember anything about it there, because we moved away when I was about eight months old. We were on a long haul road trip to the opposite side of the country.After living in Portland, Oregon for a little while, I started Primary. I had to adapt to the fact that my classmates were the same size as me. At that point in my life, everyone had been adults, or my older sister Elise. In Primary, I worked my way up, from one of the younger kids, to the oldest in the class. (Although I was pretty much guaranteed the “oldest in the class” position because I spent four years in Primary.) Everyone sort of respected me, same as prey respect predators.But my life lesson was that good things don’t last forever. I learned this in a couple of ways. First, our class pet. He was an Asian fire bellied toad named Hopper, and he starved during a snowstorm. But also because my perfect ecosystem got reset at age six and a half, when we moved to eastern Oregon. By that time, we had acquired my little brother, Dash. In our family’s ecosystem, he was (and still is) my prey.However, the school ecosystem was completely different. I was in a public school in first grade, and I was at the bottom of the food chain. Everyone, from the second graders, to the fifth graders, would prey on us first graders.This time, though, I learned that everyone will get what they deserve. There was this one kid who lit two trash cans on fire. Needless to say, he was expelled. And as for me, I got to skip second grade and go straight to third. So I was doing a pretty good job at that school, and that town in general.Then, in August of last year, our family moved one more time. To Ballwin. Starting school, I automatically became a sixth-year, and a respected (sort of) elder. Because I had been in a Montessori Primary, I knew the basic idea of how things worked, but I still had a lot to learn. All of the materials were new to me, but I caught on fast. And I promptly learned that sometimes you have to do things you don’t want to do. My advice for this is stick it out, and complain about it when you can.Anyway, I’ve had a lot of fun this year. Our class went on a camping trip to tour some caves, we put on play in which I was a lead role, and every Friday, Mr. Justin would bring in a magic trick to show us. We’ve had lots of good times together, and I’m excited to see what MAP has in store for me and my fellow sixth-years. From all I’ve heard about MAP, I’m certain that I’ll love it. I’ll be sad to leave behind this school and all that it’s taught me, but I’m ready to move on to an all new environment.But before I go, I want to give thanks to everyone who has helped me along the way. Ms. Rebecca and Mr. Justin, who have all the traits that perfect teachers should have. My friends who are almost family, and my family, who are friends. Also everyone in this community. With all the support you’ve given me in this environment, I’ve done something only a true animal could do. I’ve found my niche.

Graduate Highlight: Julia

"My life is like a building. It is strong and tall in spirit. Villa di Maria has helped me construct myself into who I am today, and who I will be tomorrow."Julia's speech was full of gratitude and the comparison of her life so far to act of building a structure. Enjoy the full speech below!My early years in school prepared the foundation for my structure and helped me get ready for hard things to happen. When I started preschool, I didn’t know much, but I could tie shoes pretty well. Whenever someone else was walking around with an untied shoe, I tied it for them. So tying bows was my favorite. While I do not tie shoes too often now, helping others is still one of my greatest skills. Even though I was helpful, I was not always nice. (“Hey Kalyn, I’m telling a story about us now”.) When I was about 3 years old, I bit my sister; she was mad at me, but she knew I was young. Now, I have learned how to express myself in other ways than biting, which helps me organize my ideas clearly to make things happen.On to the walls of my building… to 1st, 2nd and 3rd grade. My favorite subject in school was math because I understood math quickly. Being home schooled for half of 1st grade and all of 2nd and 3rd grade, my sister and I would go to the zoo to see the animals, which I enjoyed. I learned to be patient because everywhere we went, I would always ask “Are we there yet?” over and over until we got there. Because I’ve learned to be patient, I have uncovered that I enjoy and am patient with younger children. Patience will help me be respectful of others and to let life happen the way it wants to go. And now I’m to the roof of my structure… I have to be careful for falling objects.  We have come to 4th, 5th and 6th grade. My favorite work these 3 years was work with Binomials; they were my favorite lessons because they were super fun and a used great materials. Speaking of materials, Montessori materials are structurally balanced for each person, for each person can work at their own pace. My building is strong because my materials have been exactly what I need, for me. Thank you to the fellow sixth years I have learned so much from you guys and girls.  And now we are all looking back to the blueprints of my life. I want to give a shout out to the teachers. Thank you for letting me come to this fabulous school; you helped me so much with all you have done. And my mom and dad; you have taught me almost everything I know, how to see the world through my own eyes. You have taught me there is no stopping point and to be the best I can be. Also, thank you to my grandparents; you have helped me through hard times to when I was three days old and I stopped breathing. You stayed with me in the NICU. And last but not least, thank you to my sister; you taught me how to be crazy like you, how to face my fears and never give up. Thank you all for listening to the story of my life.

Graduate Highlight: Emily

For those of you who know Emily, you can imagine that her speech was as unique as she was. If only we could see it instead of read it, I guarantee from her Directress Rebecca that the effect would be full "Emily." Below, her heartfelt speech.From the first rehearsal to the final bow, well, a lot happens through that short amount of time, like making friends, learning life lessons, and growing up. So let’s look back at Act One: Primary and Kindergarten. My favorite material was the bells, because I love making noise and music. My favorite memory was doing skits with my kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Jordan; my favorite skit was “The Three Little Pigs”. During my time in Primary and Kindergarten, I learned two life lessons: independence, and generosity. Mrs. Jordan reminded me to share with others and to do things on my own. That lesson paid off. I am independent and now able to work with others easily. Well, I think we should look at Act Two: Lower Elementary. My first two years were not the best; I spent the majority of my time moving from school to school, but, in third grade I found Villa, and I wouldn’t trade that experience for anything. My favorite memory was when my Dad taught me how to use the computer for the first time, which might have been a mistake…. I loved researching with my Dad; I wrote a report on Martin Luther King, Jr.  This work was pivotal for me; it opened up the curtain to my humanitarian and social justice side. I shall play this role throughout my life. One very important thing I took away from my lower elementary experience is that it always takes a while to find where you belong.

Welcome to act three of my life: Upper Elementary. I have learned so much over these past three years like how to develop friendship, confidence, and…well…come to think of it, I learned to work on the edge of the stage, project my voice, and be vulnerable--a good actress must put herself out there. When I first came to Upper Elementary I felt like an outsider, but Upper Elementary quickly became my home. My favorite lesson is Parts of the Cell; I just love all its twists and turns that make you want to do it more and more, plus it is fun to make models of cells. My favorite memory was hard to choose; really, my favorite memory is upper elementary and all the years I spent being a part of it. The life lesson that I learned over these short years and will carry with me for the rest of my life is that once you are a part of something, it will always be a part of you, no matter where you go.

Before I go, I’d like to thank a few people, my friends, Mrs. Jordan, Mrs. Nidhi, Mrs. Lebeau, Mrs. Anderson, Mr. Justin, Ms. Rebecca, and my parents for supporting me and putting up with me for all these years.As I take my final bow here at Villa, I can’t wait to start my next act in a new play: Middle School. I can’t wait to go to MAP, so I want to leave Villa with the immortal words of Hamilton…“I am not throw’in away my shot!”

Graduate Highlight: Luke

We are halfway through our graduate highlights, in which we share with you the wonderful, funny, and delightful speeches of the most recent sixth year graduates from Villa di Maria. Hard to believe it is already July, and in just a short couple of months, these amazing kids will be moving on to the next phase. We hope you have enjoyed the speeches so far. Below, Luke's memories of his favorite lessons, plus a few funny stories from his time here at VdM. Enjoy!

Sometimes I like to think of school as an ollie, (the skateboard trick, not my little brother.) Primary is the part where you kick the board into the air, Lower Elementary is the part where you slide your foot up the board and propel yourself forward, and Upper Elementary is the part where you land and roll away.

Let’s start with Primary, the kick. I actually didn’t attend primary at Villa di Maria, I lived in Chicago back then, and went to a place called Chiaravalle Montessori School. My favorite material from there was probably The Pink Tower and/or The Brown Stairs. I remember I worked on them so much that my teachers would come and say, “Luke, that’s the third time you’ve done that today. Maybe you should try something else.” My favorite memory is a funny one. You know how there’s the adjective barnyard lesson? Well, one day I was messing around with the horse and this other kid took it.  I asked for it back with my hands. This results in him throwing the horse at me. And before you know it, everyone is throwing animals at everyone. I don’t remember exactly what happened after that, but I’m pretty sure we all got in a lot of trouble. My life lesson for Primary was restraint. I know a lot of you might say I have no restraint whatsoever, but all I have to say is, if I didn’t go to primary, it would have been worse.

Now for Lower El, the slide. This is where I first came to Villa. I had two amazing teachers, Mrs. Nidhi and Mrs. Lebeau. My favorite material was definitely Racks and Tubes. I can’t quite remember why I loved it so much, but I certainly did it a lot. My favorite memory there is also a funny one. My friends Ben and Beacon and I were sitting at a table for lunch in the science room. Anyway, Ben had some applesauce and couldn’t open it. So, he did the logical thing and started hitting it with a spoon. Beacon said, “Ben, I don’t know if that’s a good idea.” Unfortunately, Ben back then was not the smart guy he is now, and continued hitting it. I started to say, “Ben, I think Beacon—" but just then he hit it super hard and it exploded everywhere. It was all over the microscopes and then Mrs.Nidhi walked in to see what all the commotion was. Ben instantly pointed at Beacon and yelled, “Beacon did it!” Anyway, it was super funny. My life lesson for Lower El was probably working together.

Now for upper el, the landing. I’ve had a lot of fun at upper elementary, with my three amazing teachers, Mrs. Rebecca, Mrs. Anderson, and Mr. Justin. I’ve done some great things here from leading over twenty other students in a MMUN resolution, to building a Cajon box drum. My favorite material was definitely Square Root, probably because it was one of the few math lessons I understand. My favorite memory was definitely MMUN. MMUN has fueled my love for politics and social justice. It’s a lot of work, but it’s worth it. And now I’m rolling away feeling excited for the future, grateful for my education so far, and ready for whatever the future holds. And last but not least, I’d like to thank all my teachers, friends, and family for an amazing elementary experience. Thank you.

Graduate Highlight: Cameron

The Final Chapter

Twelve years, much of it spent with my friends and teachers at Villa di Maria.  This school has been like a chapter in a book, exciting action, unexpected plot twists, and sadly an ending.  But with any ending there is a new beginning, so without further pause, here is my chapter in the book.

Read more of Cameron's graduation speech below...

Primary is the first classroom you step into; it’s a pretty big deal for most.  One of the lessons I remember is the frame you have to button and tie.  Another lesson I remember vaguely is cutting vegetables.  A favorite memory as well as a life lesson is hard to discern, because I was only in primary for a few months.  That experience was probably the shortest chapter in my book.

Lower El the first big step into a higher classroom.  My favorite material from Lower El is the Large Bead Frame. In second grade, my friend Seth and I did a HUGE problem on it that was bigger than us at the time.  I liked how you could do large problems, and it probably was one of the main materials that fueled my love of math.  Another memorable material for its size, was the Wooden Hierarchical Material.  I remember it being absolutely huge and lifting it was a real trouble for me.  My favorite memory is from one of the school campouts, where we were playing flashlight tag and only the teachers saw that I was hiding under a swinging bench! A life lesson I learned is that I can do so much more than I anticipated if I used my mind.  Just like characters in a book, you can do anything if you can imagine it…well, unless it is flying; physics kind of applies there.

And finally, the last three years at Villa, Upper El.  My favorite material in this classroom is either the Geometric Construction material, a math/geometry work, because it was really fun to do and I’ve always loved math work.  Or, Sentence Analysis, a language work.  Yes, my fellow sixth years, you heard that right, the dreaded and resented Sentence Analysis work.  I wouldn’t blame you if you defriended me for life immediately, but here are my reasons: it’s fun to find all the wacky parts of language, I have learned a lot from it, and it’s a fun work if you can get into it without gagging at the sight of it (sixth year boys I am talking to you).  My favorite memory from Upper El was the MMUN, which in my eyes, was one of the best experiences this school was to offer.  It was a hard experience, but it was worth it to gain life skills and to get to do things most people don’t get to do, like vote on solutions to world problems in the UN Building.  A life lesson I learned especially in Upper El, and in my everyday life, was to not procrastinate and get the important things done.

As I look back at my time at Villa, it almost feels like I’m rereading a book and noticing details and plot points that had gone unnoticed before.  Villa offers an education unlike any other and I would not be the same without it.  A lot of the friends I have now, that I couldn’t imagine myself without, I have met a Villa.  The academic and life skills it offers can be used in your everyday life and help you in the future.  Some of these skills, that some adults might not have, are being able to hold up an intelligent conversation, being confident in yourself and the ability to be independent.

To end my speech, I’d like to thank the people that helped me on my way and to look towards the future.  First off, thank you to my parents who brought me to this amazing school, to my friends who stayed with me and who I have grown incredibly fond of, and finally to my teachers who have helped me and taught me important lessons.  The next school I plan to go to is the MAP or the Montessori Adolescent Program, which is a great school and provides a good future for those who go there.  I plan to dive straight into it like a new book that I’ve been waiting for months to read.

Every chapter has an end, but with that end there is a new beginning; so with these words I end my years at Villa.  Thank you for your time.

Thank you, Cameron! We wish you the best of luck and you will be missed!

Graduate Highlight: Bethany

I am like a painting.

Each stage of my life

Is another streak of

Paint on a canvas.

Read more of sixth-year graduate Bethany's heartfelt speech below!

Every step of the way, my canvas has become more and more full and filled with details.  I have always been drawn to art because of how creative and expressive it can be, and Villa has allowed me to be the same way.

I had been pretty stressed out in a public school kindergarten with the bell noises and the drama.  So, when I first came to Villa in first grade, it was life changing.  That is the first dot of vibrant paint on my blank canvas.  In Lower El, I would hug Mrs. Lebeau and Mrs. Nidhi every morning before I dived into my day.  My Lower El experience was like how an artist struggles to figure out what they are going to compose, as in I had lots of arguments with my friends about silly things, so in third grade, I really had to figure out the balance of friendship, especially when Mrs. Lebeau would constantly say, “Cheese and crackers, Bethany!”

Like an artist, I have always been drawn to beauty, and there is lots of it in Montessori materials.  All the colors and shapes, I think that they have lead me to understand what I am learning and has fueled my love for learning.  Artists need to use quality materials and Montessori has given me that quality.

Upper Elmenetary is where you learn to be independent and try new things.  In Upper El is also where you get to do many things that you never thought you could do like the MMUN.  Just as artists must push themselves, take risks and put in hard work in their art, I had to learn to research, edit and speak before a crowd.  Upper El is all the paint, colors, and art put together to form a picture.

I would like to thank Mrs. Rebecca for teaching so many lessons and helping me through the way.  And I would like to thank Mrs. Anderson for a great year, helping us with the MMUN and anything related with computers.  Don’t think that I forgot you, Mr. Justin!  You have dealt with us the whole year—that’s a big deal, and for making anything and everything positive and always finding lots of solutions for the class if there is a problem.  And to my parents, I thank you for helping me through the way and enrolling me here.  All of these people are the details and touch ups to my painting, making it what it is.

I know that my painting is not finished yet, but I am sure that it will grow into a masterpiece.  Next year means a new me, new school new world—middle school!  Ms. Rebecca, you have prepared me well, but I guess it is time to move on, to a far away land called MAP.

Thank you.

Thank you, Bethany! We can't wait to hear all about your time at MAP. Good luck!

Graduate Highlight: Kaylee

Our next sixth-year graduate, Kaylee, shares her experiences in Montessori, her love of science, and personal thank-you's to her friends and guides below.My time being a Villa student has been like a roller coaster with all its ups, downs, twists and turns.  It has been the ride of my life, and has helped shaped me into the fun, loving daring and weird person I am today.

I have always loved Montessori and I have many favorite lessons, so I am going to sum it up with one word: science.  Much like a roller coaster, science is my thrill ride.  In Lower El, my favorite lesson was Prelude to the Winds because we learned about how hot air rises. I’ll never forget when we accidentally caught the spiral on fire! And, in Upper El, we dissected a cow’s eyeball! It was so cool to see all the parts and, when we were done, we took the lens and made it into a magnifying glass!

Like riding a roller coaster, it takes courage to succeed, right?  Well, at MMUN, I used a lot of courage to go up and deliver my opening speech in front of 100 people.  Boy, that took some real guts!  My life lesson from the whole Montessori community is to always be independent—it’s the Montessori way, to do things for yourself.  One of my best memories from Villa di Maria was when we went to the MMUN—it simply was one of the best experiences of my life.  One the last day, we went on a cruise ship around Manhattan; it was something I will never forget like when you are on a roller coaster and your will never forget how long you have to wait in line.

Speaking of waiting in line, you know how when you are waiting in line, all alone, ready for a ride, well, that’s what life would be like without friends—boring and lonely.  But, in this case, I don’t have that, you guys [spoken to 6th grade graduate friends in the front row] mean the world to me.  So, I’d like to say something about you:

To Julia, you taught me to be a hard worker and a great leader.

To Bethany, you taught me to be humble and kind to everyone around you.

To Emily, you taught me to overcome fears, no matter how hard it is.

To Kat, you taught me to always love books!

And, yes, boys, I’m going to say something about you too… [boys were cued to groan at this….]

To Simon, you taught me to never hide your inner animal—get it…salmon…okay….

 [Kaylee holds up a prop, which on one side has a photo of Simon on a popsicle stick, while on the other has a photo of a salmon, his personal moniker].

To Cameron, you taught me to always follow the rules.

To Seth, you taught me to always be happy, and even when I am down, you always cheer me up with your stupid jokes.  Oh, Mrs. Rebecca, did I say a bad word?  Pshh, whatever….

And to Luke, you taught me to live life like no one is watching.  Eat any paper lately?

Before I say the rest, I would like to thank my teachers for all they have done for me.  Mrs. April, Mrs. Nidhi, Mrs. Lebeau, Mrs. Anderson, Mr. Justin, and last, but not least, Ms. Rebecca, who has been the best teacher ever.  She has been so good, helping me with things that I don’t and do understand.  If I didn’t understand, she would take the time to explain it to me until I do.  And the last people that I want to thank are my parents, for all that they’ve done for me, especially for paying for my time at school.

The last year I was in the Upper El, we got kicked out of the Villa building and were moved to Laumeier.  I thought it wouldn’t be the same, but it has been awesome.  It has been a great last year for me and I hope the rest of the kids have a fun time in the new building.  I will miss everyone, but I am going to move on with my life and have a new beginning.  It’s time for a new ride!

The best of luck to you, Kaylee, and thank you for sharing your memories and sense of humor! 

Graduate Highlight: Seth

We are thrilled to share most of the sixth year's graduation speeches, in the order they were given during graduation night. We hope you enjoy them! First up: Seth. Goodbye…My time at Villa Di Maria has been fun--every year of my decade at Villa, but sadly it must come to an end. Leaving school is like growing up and officially leaving my house because Villa Di Maria is like my home away from home, so it’s a little tough having to leave. Believe it or not, I actually went to Villa before I even got home from the hospital.My first day of school--one of the scariest days of a person’s life.  So many unfamiliar faces and lessons that I knew nothing about. But as I got older I made some friends, which made it better. So I have to say my favorite lesson in primary was...any math lesson. The way numbers can change just fascinates me. I really liked graduating from primary. It made me feel like an adult.Now I’m in Lower Elementary. I’m finally 6 years old, and I know so many more people.  Some of them are currently 6th years of Villa Di Maria, but I lost ones that left Villa, which was also a little sad. If I had to choose my favorite lesson of Lower El, I would probably say Abstract Large Bead Frame because my friend Cameron and I made an 8-page long problem, taller than us.  My first year in LE, I of course didn’t know many lessons, but I was pretty good at math and spelling, I could spell just about every word I’ve said so far in this speech (true fact)!  My favorite memory was probably meeting Mrs. Nidhi and Mrs. LeBeau, which made it even harder when they left. During LE, I learned not to just put work away in my cubby, but to finish it because at the end of the year, I would have at least 80% of a folder filled with unfinished work!  And now, I’m finally in Upper El and I know so much more and I have much more responsibility. Ever since I learned abstract math, paper has been my favorite material, if you can call it a material. On it I did things like division to Square Root to even Cube Root and I enjoyed that a lot.One of my favorite memories of Upper El was when we went to New York for the MMUN. For those who don’t know what that is, it stands for Montessori Model United Nations and I hope the future 6th years enjoy it. One bad part about my trip was when a few other of my classmates offered to take me to the Hershey’s factory and the M&M factory and I refused. I refused because I thought I had to stay with my chaperone, Mrs. Rebecca who was not ready, neither were my roommates Jackson and Luke. But I was ready to go, I was dressed. I had showered and I even brushed my hair. After they had left, Mrs. Rebecca said I could go but I was too late. Also, my friends Gabby and Kaylee got food poisoning, they claimed it hurt… A LOT. I’d say that I learned not to procrastinate because during MMUN, I procrastinated on so many position papers, but not this speech.Thank you to all the teachers that helped me through my toughest times. Mrs. Milos, Mrs. Steinman, Mrs. Moore, Mrs. Mcauley, Mrs. Nidhi, Mrs. Lebeau, Ms. Rebecca, Mrs. Anderson and, the only male teacher I have met, Mr. Justin. Once again, it will be hard leaving Villa because it’s the only school I have ever been to and I’m going to miss every one of you guys.  Thank you.And thank you, Seth! You will be missed!

Field Day 2017

The morning after Villa di Maria's spectacular Spring Concert, the tired but happy staff, students, and parent volunteers gathered at Kirkwood Middle School's lush green fields to partake in our annual Field Day celebration. The weather could not have been more beautiful! Get ready for lots of photos of all the fun below!

School spirit at its finest

Half the gang...

... and the other half!

In the week leading up to Field Day, the Directresses, Guides, and students all worked to create their own team t-shirts in cheerfully bright team colors. They were proud to show off their hard work!

Villa's Field Day is only possible with the help of many parent volunteers, who took time off of work and busy schedules to run various stations and keep the games running smoothly. Above, the blue team (from Primary) listens to instructions on how to soak a sponge, run it to a bucket, and fill the bucket with rung-out water, relay-style.

Patiently waiting their turns

There was Giant Jenga, an outdoor favorite that makes its appearance at many Villa di Maria events. Part of the fun is the danger in that tall tower toppling over! Don't worry; these kids are fast!There were events to make kids dizzy...... and others to get them wet, perfect for a hot day!

Flag Tag

And of course, there was plenty of goofing around!

Future VdM-er, taking notes and looking adorable, as always

One of the favorite stations was the water balloon launch, where children sent water balloons soaring into the outstretched hands of their peers!

Ready to catch

The parents took turns, too!

But perhaps the overall favorite, where the most laughter was heard, was tug-of-war:Thank you, Villa di Maria parent volunteers and staff, for an amazing last day of school, and thank you to all the dads who fed these hungry mouths at the Dad's BBQ at VdM afterward! We hope you are enjoying your summer!