On a recent autumn evening, Trevose Day School and Neshaminy Montessori opened its classrooms to a group of unexpected students — parents!
Our “Back To School Night” was a wonderful mixer in which parents got a glimpse of what a day of learning is like for their children. During the first part of the event, teachers provided classroom tours, lesson overviews and interactive experiences that highlighted our innovative programs.
“I am always excited to attend back to school night,” says Nina Mingioni, whose son is a fourth grader in Ms. Williams class. “This year, I had an opportunity to meet Alex's new teacher and it was great to see her use classroom technology and discuss the curriculum for the year. In addition, it was exciting to see the projects the class already accomplished proudly displayed on classroom walls.”
In addition to learning about lesson plans and fun activities, our teachers also described their philosophical approach to teaching and how they establish a nurturing community through learning, socializing and collaboration.
“Back to school night was enlightening,” says Nikki Shifren, whose three year old daughter is a student in Mrs. Hines’ Montessori class. “Mrs Hines explained her methods and their origins very thoroughly. She also handed out articles and other vital information about the teachings of Maria Montessori. I found it fascinating, and am utterly thrilled that my daughter will get to experience this type of educational process, and hopefully continue to thrive, as she has done since she started in Mrs. Hines class last year.”
After parents concluded their “lessons” for the night (and everyone got an A+, by the way!), we all gathered in The Barn to enjoy refreshments and a slideshow of the past school year and our fantastic summer program.
Head of School Gwynne Frischmann provided an overview of school policy, then shared a poignant written piece called “Memo from a Child.” This list of twenty bullet points are told from the point of view of a child and offer honest reminders to adults on how encourage and empower a growing soul.
Some highlights include:
● Don’t spoil me. I know quite well that I ought not to have all I ask for – I’m only testing you.
● Don’t forget that I cannot explain myself as well as I should like. That is why I am not always accurate.
● Don’t put me off when I ask questions. If you do, you will find out that I stop asking and seek my information elsewhere.
● Please keep yourself fit and healthy. I need you.
“Parents and teachers are partners in education,” says Mrs. Frischmann. “When parents and teachers work together, students perform better, attend classes more regularly, and improve their attitudes towards school. I hope that parents left Back to School Night with the feeling that everyone shares the goals of helping their children learn and feel successful and that their children are in a safe, happy and caring environment!”
Thank you to all the parents who helped make Back to School Night such a wonderful success.
We look forward to continued partnership with parents and invite you to join us on October 29 at 7pm in The Barn for a meeting about our PTA and Parent Volunteer program. We hope to see you there!