Tuesday, September 2 (First day of school)

Hi parents,

First of all, thank you so much for taking the time to read the Blog. It is the #1 best way to stay caught up with what we're doing in class. I will do my best to update the blog every day with a brief summary of what we did in class that day, as well as reminders about upcoming dates and events, and volunteer opportunities. Please do not feel obligated to check it every single day - once or twice a week is great, but if you are ever curious about something your child was sharing about their day at school, checking the Blog can be a great way for parents to continue the conversation at home and understand the context of everything we're learning. 

We had an excellent first day back at school. We spent a lot of time going over classroom and school expectations, getting to know each other and the space, and just adjusting back into 'school mode'. Today was a pretty easy day in terms of academics, but it followed the general structure we'll be using for the rest of the year. Students completed work independently, and then were able to move on to responsible work choices, which they then got to practice cleaning up. Work, RWC, Clean-up is how most work periods go in a Montessori classroom, and I think its really important that kids get familiar with that pattern early in the year so they can gradually take on more responsibilities and complete more advanced work as the year progresses. 

We started out our day with Morning Math, which is basically an opportunity for students to practice whatever math concept we're learning about. Today it was a review of Grade 2 / 3 math facts. Once students finished that, they were able too explore the classroom and try out some of the many responsible work choice options, while also getting to know their classmates. 

We had a sharing circle to officially meet one another, and then did a 'two truths and a lie' journal writing task. 

Then, the students created colourful name tags to label their cubbies.

In the afternoon, we did Mindfulness, which is another routine we'll be doing every day after lunch, and is an opportunity for kids to practice some self-reflection and emotional regulation. This is probably my favourite part of the day.

After that, we did Quiet Reading, the first step in our 'Daily LA' literacy block, which eventually will be the time of day when students independently engage in a variety of reading and writing activities, while I read with small groups.

We played no-outs kickball in gym. At the end of the day, we learned how to shake hands properly, and then read the first story from Wayside School. 

Have a nice night!

Zac