avalon montessori

Find us on Facebook

2011-07-08T18:29:00.002-04:00

http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/pages/Avalon-Childrens-Montessori-School/228147357214591

Let the Bidding Begin!

2011-06-07T09:04:00.001-04:00

The auction for front row seats is now open.

There are 4 sets of front row seats - please see previous blog for more information.

Auction for Front Row Seats

2011-05-26T09:57:00.002-04:00

We will once again auction off 4 sets of front row seats to the 2011 Avalon Spring Performance and Graduation.

The auction will begin at 9 am on Tuesday June 7 and will close at noon on Wednesday June 8.

Bidding will start at $75/set with increments of $10.

Side A - right side of the gym, facing the stage ( set 1 closer to the center aisle)

Side B - left side of the gym, facing the stage ( set 1 - closer to the center aisle)

Bids must be made directly on the blog. We will use the clock on the school computer to open and close the auction.

Thanks!

message from an avalon mom

2011-05-09T08:30:00.001-04:00

Thank you for encouraging the Mother's Day gifts that my son gave me. The "10 Reasons I Love My Mom" made me teary eyed, especially because I know the kids did it themselves and that it wasn't that usual generic type of thing that you might get from other schools with your kids signature being the only difference. Avalon actually makes their kids dig deep and write it themselves - another reason why I love Avalon so much. I thought the tea towel was fabulous! I'm going to frame it. It was a wonderful idea to have the kids draw themselves. I can't get over how great those drawings were. All the kids are very creative and their work is priceless. Thank you again for such a wonderful surprise and for encouraging these type of ideas. I know that all the other mom' s must have appreciated the gifts as much as I did.

awesome students

2011-01-24T08:42:00.001-05:00

I got this email this morning from one of my students - where else do you have such responsible students that let you know they will be away from school and then sign the note, love.

I LOVE this place!

Hi Ms.Vanderkooi

i'm not coming to school to day i am not feeling that great. it started on wednesday when me and hank where both sick and then it got worse but i think i will be back tomorrow. hopefully .

thanks

bye

love R

2011-01-10T16:05:00.004-05:00

A Quick Montessori Bite from The Center for Guided Montessori Studies

2011-01-06T15:45:00.003-05:00

“From such a system there comes forth a school where the children work for themselves - that is, they are free. In this freedom they work much more than heretofore has been customary in school...

-- Dr. Maria Montessori
My System of Education

A century ago, Dr. Montessori discovered that freedom and excellence are intertwined. Both children and adults today could benefit from applying this insight to our schools and work places.

Our traditional school systems are built like our traditional factories. Even the end-of-period bell mimics the shift-break bell in an industrial facility. Having once worked in a traditional factory myself, I can attest that the similarity of cultures continues to this day, authoritarian and unstimulating environments where questioning and collaboration are both disdained. In fact, the traditional school system was designed in tandem with the support of early "efficiency experts" with the goal of producing ready workers for industrial expansion.

It's curious that today we still find these alienating attitudes in our workplaces and schools. Not just our educators, but our business leaders also should know better. In the 1980s, businesses around the world began to take note of unusually efficient processes at automotive factories in Germany and Japan. These factories produced more cars at lower cost and with fewer errors, yet oddly they upended a great deal of standard practice. Consultants discovered that these workers collaborated more, especially with management.

However, there was one extremely startling difference at the most successful of these factories. In traditional factories, such as the one I worked at, workers' responsibilities are quite constrained. For example, my job was to put rubber gaskets on circuit boards. I couldn't go too fast or too slow lest I risk disrupting the production queue. Because of union rules and shop practice, I was not to inspect the parts for any problems, so I needed to ignore even the most glaring defects which would render the final devices useless. My job, like many others, was essentially to "pull a lever." It was certainly dispiriting, but it also struck me at the time as rather inefficient.

In contrast to the one I worked at, consultants found that at the most effective factories, worker responsibilities were extended beyond the rapid production of the next part to encompass the overall quality of the product. Workers who spotted any defect were allowed to call a halt to production if necessary. These workers weren't just pulling levers, they knew the purpose of their work and felt ownership and pride over the output of the factory.

Work should be ennobling, but far too frequently it is not. Way back in 1968, a management consultant by the name of Fredrick Herzberg studied workplace efficiency and concluded that the intrinsic motivators of work (the pleasures of the job itself) outweighed the motivation of extrinsic factors such as pay, vacation or even the perks of the work environment.

Obviously people need to be fairly compensated for their work in order to feel motivated, but beyond that point extra dollars did not lead to extra effort. Things that did included providing employees with the freedom to accomplish tasks in the ways best suited them, and extending their responsibilities "vertically" to encompass more of the work process. The more responsibility offered an employee, the greater their own reported sense of satisfaction. This contrasted against the negative effects of "horizontal" job loading an employee, for example by challenging them to tighten twice as many bolts in a day.

In Montessori, too, we talk about intrinsic motivation as superior to extrinsic motivators such as grades or even praise. In fact, Herzberg's studies of adults show that intrinsic motivators produce superior results, one more way the Montessori method better prepares children for the real world. It is interesting today that despite the fact that we know we both learn and work best when we are interested, schools and workplaces are still constructed around the premise that students and workers are adversaries of teachers and employers respectively. If we treat children and adults as if they can't be trusted to want to do their work, is it surprising that they don't act like they want to be at their schools and offices?

Is it surprising that our schools are failing, or that workplace productivity is lagging? These are direct cultural and economic consequences that follow from the way people are treated. If we assume students do not wish to learn, then we get bored students who learn less and even goof off. Assume employees don't want to work and risk being forgotten like Altavista. This once leading search engine has been rendered obsolete by one where employees are encouraged to spend a day a week on any problem of their choosing. This is Google, a company founded by two former Montessori children.

Comment on our Winter Performance

2010-12-09T06:33:00.000-05:00

Thanks so much for letting me sit in today. I’m sure it’s going to be a great performance on Friday. I LOVE the format. Very Christmas-y! I spent two hours (!!!) today at my older ddaughter's “Arts Afternoon,” and seriously, your performance was so much better. I know it’s a lot of work, but it’s such a lovely performance. I’m guessing musical theatre wasn’t really in your calling when you started the school, but you do a tremendous job at it. Congrats!

An awesome place to work!

2010-12-02T17:10:00.000-05:00

I love the fact that I sent out an email requesting help with the 9 year old boy
for the Christmas Share and IMMEDIATELY people responded. Christine is
bringing a snowsuit, Heidi showed up with sweaters and PJs, Margaret
is bringing in $40 in the morning to put towards the boots, and Carole
is going out to BUY the boots (so we need to give the $40 to her).

It's so great!

Thanks for hiring me, this is a good place to be.

Christmas Sharing Programme

2010-11-19T13:30:00.001-05:00

This is a note that I received from an Avalon parent today - it makes me realize the effect that our actions have on others.

I just wanted you to know I think this is such a great program. It makes
me both happy and proud to support it as my own family benefited from a
similar program when I was growing up. I remember how much it meant to
us all to open that special box together and get excited about what lay
inside. We'd hug or even cry at the generosity of perfect strangers and
give thanks that kindness and love exists in the world. Quite honestly,
we would not have had a Christmas if not for such a program.

I'd like to volunteer on either the 1st or 2nd to help pack up the
boxes, please let me know which day you could use the most help and I
will be there.

Since I'm not at the school often is it possible for you to send me a
copy of the donation requirements so that I can sign up? I would also
like to extend the opportunity to a few of my friends here at my work
that I know have items they'd like to donate.

Thanks again for all you do to help kids and families in the community,
you are a gem!

Family Literacy Day

2010-11-06T18:10:00.001-04:00

Family Literacy Day takes place annually on January 27 to celebrate adults and children reading and learning together, and to encourage Canadians to spend at least 15 minutes enjoying a learning activity as a family every day.

Encourage your families to enter the "Munsch At Home" Contest for a chance to win a home visit from Family Literacy Day Honourary Chair, Robert Munsch. It's easy! Just write a fun story as a family and submit it online at
http://www.abclifeliteracy.ca/en/Munsch-at-Home-Contest

The winning family will also get to choose a local school, library or literacy group to receive a public reading by Mr. Munsch.

The contest runs until November 25 and is open to all Canadian families.

facebook etiquette for teens and tweens

2010-09-14T20:03:00.004-04:00

As the students returned to school last week, there was a lot of talk about Facebook and MySpace. The students ( particularly those in Upper and Senior Elementary)are definitely into social media and I came across this interesting article in Today's Parent that I wanted to pass along.

Copy it and paste it into your browser.

http://www.todaysparent.com/lifeasparent/parenting/article.jsp?content=20100708_153514_4776&page=1

Food for Thought

2010-08-26T10:15:00.000-04:00

"When he is at the school we adults have chosen for him, he is given
a medal and we say, 'What a clever teacher he has.'

"But it is the small child who is really a living miracle! This is
what the teacher should see in the child: a pupil who has learnt in
such a fashion that the teacher herself could not learn better...This
is a deep and mysterious fact."

-- Dr. Maria Montessori

The Absorbant Mind, pages 102-103

Dress Rehearsal

2010-06-09T16:54:00.002-04:00

The Elementary students had their first dress rehearsal today and it was a huge success. Most of the children were wearing costumes that they had made at the after school costume club - every child looked great.
There are a few things that need to be tweaked but we are ready to go. I cannot wait to see what the Casa children have prepared for us.

Auction is Closed

2010-06-09T13:19:00.001-04:00

The seats have been sold!

Thanks to everyone for participating.

auction

2010-06-09T11:00:00.001-04:00

the response for the auction has been overwhelming and, to be honest, we were unprepared for it. everyone's feedback is appreciated and we will be much better prepared for the next performance.

sherry

2nd row of seats open due to popular demand!

2010-06-09T09:09:00.001-04:00

we have opened up the second row of seats for auction - same conditions as previous row.
demand is really high so bid now!

Auction for Front Row Seats

2010-06-09T08:50:00.002-04:00

Dear Parents

The following have purchased front row seats at the buy now price:
Deb Kimsa,
David Perschy
Leica Duffy
Shannon Morrison.

The auction is now closed. See you all at the performance! It will be great!

Outdoor Retreat

2010-06-03T13:07:00.002-04:00

The Upper Elementary Class just returned from their annual outdoor retreat. The weather was spectacular and everyone had an amazing time.
Pebble, Diamond, Pig, Platypus, Sand Storm, Ladybug, Spider, Fox, Red Robin, Forest, Spring and their teacher, Sparrow, spent the entire time outdoors, exploring beautiful Hockley Valley.
Every person who participated in the retreat was transformed - the over stimulated, digitally connected city kids discovered the freedom of being outdoors, getting dirty and bonding with each other. The exhausted teacher was able to enjoy her students and connect with them on another level.
It was truly magical and I hope that the feeling will stay with us as we head into the final stretch of the school year.

Auction

2010-05-28T12:58:00.003-04:00

Both the auction and the Buy Now option will start on Wednesday June 9 at 9am. Sorry about any confusion. The interest is high so make sure you respond early!

Auction for Front Row Seats

2010-05-25T16:24:00.002-04:00

On Wednesday June 9 we will auction 4 sets of front row seats to the 2010 Avalon Spring Performance and Graduation. Bidding will start at $75 with increments of $10. There will be a buy now price of $100.
Auction will open at 9am and will close at 4pm. This is a great chance to see your graduate up close!

Elementary Science Fair

2010-05-14T11:50:00.004-04:00

We had our very first Science Fair on May 13 and it was a huge hit! Students and teachers had been working on this since March and the results were fantastic! There was a steady flow of people between 5 and 7 pm and the scientists were able to answer questions and keep everyone interested.
Some comments.....

Wonderful to see all of the Science Fair projects. Well done, Avalon!

Incredible - students put a lot of effort into their projects and should feel proud of their accomplishmnets.

All of the children have put so much time and effort and have shown a great display.

It is nice to see how proud the kids are when they explain their work.

Every project was very impressive and interesting. We learned a lot.

Wow - nice work everyone! Great topics and great explanations. You should be proud of the work you've done!

I am so impressed with everyone's hard work!

What a lovely endeavour! The children all put out a tremendous effort.

Excellent job by all the students!

Friendship

2010-05-06T12:24:00.002-04:00

Canada is number one
We have a little thing called Friendship
We are all friends but some of us are
Really close like family

Friendship means we love our friends
Because everyone is our friend
Although we have our fights
And have our differences
We always return to being friends

In Canada there is one small special school
named Avalon Children's Montessori
that's where I learned the word friendship

Friendship is the word I will never forget
To start a friendship you have to say hello
Thanks another very important word

Patricia A.
Year 5, Upper Elementary

Anne Frank - Montessori Child

2010-04-20T13:51:00.002-04:00

Anne Frank was a typical Montessori child. She was bright, eager, and opinionated. She loved to play Monopoly, and often won. She dreamed of becoming an actress or world famous ice skater. And, of course, she was an incredibly articulate writer. Her diary gives us a glimpse not only of those terrible years, but of the bright spark of humanity, compassion, and maturity that are so often seen among our students.

After the war, Anne's friend Hannah reflected on their childhood together: "I certainly wasn't anything like Anne. She was popular, with both the boys and the girls. Being the center of attention was just fine as far as she was concerned. Anne was a smart aleck. My mother used to say, 'God knows everything, but Anne knows it better.'"

Does that sound like any of the Montessori children in your life? It certainly does to me. Again, it takes a self-confident parent, to raise a Montessori child!

Anne is a marvelous Montessori poster child who reflects the central nature of the children in Montessori schools around the world. So many of our students, if allowed to continue with us, grow up just as strong-willed, curious, creative, compassionate, and eager to make a difference in the world as Anne. They make us proud!

From Tomorrow's Child
Tim Seldin

I Love Avalon because....

2010-03-25T10:42:00.004-04:00

What I love about Avalon is that we are like family and we can trust people. The students and teachers get together and hang out. I love this school and the people. Avalon has changed me - I used to be shy but now I am outgoing, I did not have a lot of friends and now I have so many I cannot count them all!
It is a great school.
Rebecca, Year 6

The Essence of Avalon

2010-02-22T09:51:00.001-05:00

A story for you:
Yesterday we headed to Yorkville to take part in IceFest. It was an incredible day and the sculptures were fabulous. Anna and Olivia met a little boy named Max who was about 3 years old. Anna thought he was fun to play with and Olivia took him under her wing. She played with him, made sure he was safe, explained what the sculptures were and made sure that he did not touch what shouldn't be touched. Anna spent her time teaching him how to race up and down the hill and made him laugh. Max's mother gave us wonderful feedback about our girls and could not believe they were only 5. They seemed so much more mature and were incredibly caring. She had lots of admiration for us as parents. Well, we can not take the credit all on our own. The last 3 years in Avalon with incredible teachers, a loving community and a school that has given my girls the opportunity to mentor and be mentors has also made them the fabulous girls they are today.

Thank you for creating a place where my girls not only learn what is necessary academically but how to be caring and compassionate people.

Beaches Open House

2010-02-18T18:14:00.003-05:00

On Saturday February 20, Avalon will participate in the Beaches Kid's Programs Open House at the Beaches Recreation Centre on Williamson Road. We are excited to once again be involved in this event which highlights programs for children in our neighbourhood. This will be a great opportunity for members of the community to meet Avalon staff, to learn about Montessori education in the Beach and to get excited about the first Private Middle School in the neighbourhood. Come by and visit us between 10 and 2.

Olympic Themed Family Night

2010-02-06T09:42:00.003-05:00

Last night, the entire Avalon community came together to celebrate the upcoming Olympic Games. Families participated in a torch relay from the Wood Glen Campus, along Queen Street, to the Wineva Campus.The children were so proud as they carried the paper mache torched and then passed it to their schoolmates. Momentum built as the number of people swelled while the excitement of the children was contagious.

Filled with enthusiasm, the group headed into the gymnasium where there was hot chocolate, coloring, Olympic mascots and treats!Everyone enjoyed the beautiful slide show and inspiring talk given by our very own Olympian, Christine Parris Washington. It was very moving when the entire group joined together and sang "O Canada".

Finally, it was off to Glen Manor Park for skating. Everyone had a wonderful time and this morning we had a nice note from one of our parents,

"Just wanted to say thanks for organizing such a fun event. It was very
innovative and fun. The kids all seemed to have so much fun. The whole event
was very well planned, and who can go wrong with hot chocolate?

Thanks so much for organizing"

Avalon Family Night

2010-01-21T18:39:00.002-05:00

This year, we have decided to have an event for the families of Avalon Children's Montessori School to celebrate the upcoming winter games. We will have a torch relay from the Wood Glen Campus to Wineva Ave Campus. We will congregrate in the gym for hot chocolate and an inspirational message from Christine Parris Washington, local Olympian athlete. The event will conclude with the singing of the national anthem. Weather permitting, we will go skating afterwards.

Why Montessori?

2010-01-14T18:28:00.000-05:00

In Montessori education, we try to create conditions at school that give children a sense of joy, a sense of celebration, and a sense that they are part of something bigger than themselves, without taking away their sense of personal empowerment and personal responsibility. We aim to inspire in them a sense of awe and wonder. This is not done in a way that makes children feel small and powerless, but rather to say “you belong on this Earth!” Montessori creates an understanding that each life has value and each life has purpose. Our children learn that we need to honor ourselves, honor our parents, honor all life, and honor other human beings. Like all great spiritual traditions, Montessori helps children to discover their own dignity in the midst of our imperfections and personal limitations.

Tim Seldin

2010

2010-01-03T14:02:00.003-05:00

Wow, it is hard to believe that we have said good bye to the first decade of the 'new' millenium! For avalon, the last decade has been truly amazing. The year 2000 saw the official opening of the school, with a toddler class and one Casa class. Over the next few years, we added our Lower Elementary class, another Casa class, Upper Elementary and prepared for the launch of the senior school.
It has been an exciting and rewarding journey and we start the new year with enthusiasm, knowing that Avalon will continue to thrive, providing quality education for all our students.
Happy New Year everyone and thanks for sharing this journey with us.

auction is sold out

2009-12-08T17:51:00.002-05:00

the auction for the front row seats is now closed as both sets were sold for the buy out price of $150.

thanks to everyone!

Auction for Winter Performance

2009-12-05T14:41:00.002-05:00

2 sets of front row seats (4 per set) for the 10th Annual Avalon Winter Performance. Money to be applied to our bursary fund, assisting Avalon families who are having difficulty with their financial commitments to the School.

Please indicate the set of tickets you are bidding on and note that the auction will open at noon Tuesday December 8 and will close at 4pm on Thursday December 10. The winning bidders will be notified and payment is to be recieved no later than Monday December 14, 2009. Avalon Directors reserve the right to cancel the auction at any time.

Bidding will start at $75 and will increase in increments of $10. We also have a buy now option - Guarantee that you get your tickets by purchasing them right now for $150!

Side A (left side of auditorium when looking from the basketball net)

Side B (right side of the auditorium when looking from basketball net)

Enjoy

social media

2009-11-27T15:59:00.002-05:00

Avalon is attempting to join the world of social media! We have joined Facebook, Twitter and Linked In and enthusiastically wait to see where it takes us. In addition to keeping us in contact with our parents, it is important for us to know how these media outlets work so that we can better counsel our students, especially as they get older. Many of the Upper Elementary students talk about YouTube and Facebook and it is important for us to stay current so that we can guide and support them as they find their place in the world.
Check us out and let us know what you think!

Remember Me Forever

2009-11-17T20:05:00.000-05:00

Written by a Year 5 Avalon Student.

Remember Me, Forever

I lie in Flanders Fields, missing those I loved
Their memories of me fade
I try to talk to them
Although they don’t answer me,
I know that I live in their hearts, forever, wherever they go…

I wish they could see me now
I lie lonely in Flanders Fields.
Lonely, except for the people who visit me.
I remember the day my family came to visit….

My mom had a baby, the baby sister I always wanted!
I realized how much I miss my friends and family.
I want to tell them – move on in your life,
Take a step toward a peaceful future.
For those who loved and supported me,
Please know that I am okay.
That Flanders Field is a place for peace.

Congratulations on 10 Years!

2009-11-02T22:09:00.004-05:00

October 29, 2009 was the tenth anniversary of the incorporation of Avalon Children's Montessori School. It was ten years ago that we filed the necessary papers and officially made our dream a reality. Within a year of incorporating, we opened our school at 31 Wood Glen Road! Since that time, there has been a great deal of growth and lots of exciting changes but our dedication to the children and our desire to provide the best possible environment for them has remained constant.
Congratulations to each of the School's founders - Angie, Chris and Sherry and thank you to the wonderful staff, students and parents who have made our school a success.
The 2010-2011 academic will officially mark tenth anniversary of the opening of Avalon Children's Montessori School and we invite everyone to get involved and to help us celebrate!

thanksgiving

2009-10-09T11:31:00.001-04:00

I am thankful for:

the food I eat,

the water I drink,

the friends I have,

the house I live in,

the family I have,

and my human rights.

These are the things I am,

and will always be

thankful for.

Mathieu, 2009

Lunch on My Own

2009-10-02T12:38:00.003-04:00

Beginning today, the Upper Elementary students have a new lunch program on Fridays. Called Lunch on My Own, the students have the opportunity to bring their lunch to school on Fridays or to go to a local business and purchase a lunch that is eaten back at school with the group. This is a big step on the road toward independence and the students are so excited at this opportunity! ( i hear them coming into the classroom right now, laughing and talking !).

Thanks to the parents for supporting this initiative - what a great way to tell our children that we trust them and support them as they spread their wings!

Happy New Year

2009-09-24T13:28:00.003-04:00

As a teacher,the month of September really does represent the New Year. I look with excitment at my classroom and look forward to working with returning students and eagerly anticipate the relationships that will be forged with new students.
At Avalon, I am lucky because I know most of the children who enter my classroom and have positive relationships with their parents. I have watched many of these children grow and develop over the years - I currently work with children that I met when they were still in diapers! ( My Upper Elementary students love to think of themselves in diapers!) Soon, I will be working with their brothers and sisters, children I have known since they were babies!
So, while I may be exhausted in September, it is a good exhaustion. It comes from working hard at something that I love and believe in. So.... farewell summer and Happy New Year to everyone!

huge numbers at AFF Day

2009-09-14T12:32:00.002-04:00

I just looked at the attendance and it seems we had about 170 people show up on Saturday! Great weather brings a great crowd!
Thanks again to all our volunteers for making this event happen and for the Avalon community for getting involved!

Back to School

2009-09-13T14:44:00.002-04:00

The 2009/2010 school year is underway and everyone celebrated at our annual Family Fun Day on Saturday September 12. We had balloons and face paint and children's entertainers and game and cake and lots and lots of fun! It was great to reconnect with old friends and to welcome those families that are new to the Avalon community.
This promises to be an exciting year as we continue to grow and strengthen our commitment to providing a quality education for our children from 2 1/2 - 14 year of age!

Small School with a Big Heart

2009-08-18T09:35:00.001-04:00

Avalon does it again!!

Yahoo....

Avalon won 3rd prize for most pledges raised in the 2009 Hopathon fundraising campaign for Muscular Dystrophy

We had 60 participants with a total of $3445.95 total raised!

The first place centre raised $20 more than Avalon with 10 times more participants -600 hoppers!!!!!

Way to go Avalon - we have such a supportive community at Avalon and this is just more proof of it.

Our next community initiative is the Terry Fox Run at the end of September - let us continue to support these worthy causes and set an example for our children.

Summer Inspiration

2009-07-05T20:03:00.002-04:00

After a break from the classroom and some time spent in lazy summer pursuits, I picked up a Montessori journal and read an article entitled, From Childhood Through Adolescence: Journey of the Spirit by James Webster. It was a heartfelt essay, exploring the sometimes painful journey of growing up. The article was well written and insightful but it was the closing paragraph that brought me to tears.
" At times I have wondered if I were doing enough, given the suffering and sorrow in the world. Of late, I have come to understand, with gratitude, that this is good, important work, that our lives are well spent in this endeavour. I am grateful, as well, that the skill of my hands, the reach of my imagination, and the capacity of my heart grow through their constant use. I trust we will continue to learn how to better carry out this work. Those who work with me are so serious and dedicated to what they do. I trust that is true of those who work beside you. We know what is at stake."

Thank you James for reminding me why I followed path that lead me to Montessori. Thanks to the Montessorians in my life who inspire me and help me to be the best that I can be.

Free Birds, A Tanka

2009-06-15T20:29:00.001-04:00

Lovely birds fly free
Such happy and free small birds
So many different types
I wish I could be free
But I am in a bird cage

Beautiful Spring, A Haiku

2009-06-15T20:28:00.001-04:00

In spring flowers bloom
Pretty flowers soak up the rain
Warm sunlight beams down

Track and Field Meet 2009

2009-06-03T08:43:00.001-04:00

We had our Junior meet on Thursday May 28 and our Senior meet on Tuesday June 2at York University. A great time was had by everyone sportsmanship, effort and enthusiam!

The overall school results based on school numbers and top 6 finishes in each category are as follows:

1ST MLCP 10.27 points
2nd TRILLIUM 9.3
3rd FOUR WINDS 9
4th AVALON 8.1
5th BANNOCKBURN 6.8
6th CRESTWOOD 6.7
7th KEW PARK 5.3
8th UNIONVILLE 3.9

4th Annual Mother's Tea

2009-05-10T21:07:00.001-04:00

Following our 4th annual mother's tea at Avalon, I received this lovely email.

Thank you so much for the tea today. It was so nice to meet some of the Avalon moms and hear more about the school. I am so glad we chose to send the kids there. It is going to be great and I really want to be as involved as possible.

Have a great weekend!

2009-04-16T18:57:00.002-04:00

RANK FRUIT OR VEGGIE SCORE
1 (worst) Peach 100 (highest pesticide load)
2 Apple 93
3 Sweet Bell Pepper 83
4 Celery 82
5 Nectarine 81
6 Strawberries 80
7 Cherries 73
8 Kale 69
9 Lettuce 67
10 Grapes - Imported 66
11 Carrot 63
12 Pear 63
13 Collard Greens 60
14 Spinach 58
15 Potato 56
16 Green Beans 53
17 Summer Squash 53
18 Pepper 51
19 Cucumber 50
20 Raspberries 46
21 Grapes - Domestic 44
22 Plum 44
23 Orange 44
24 Cauliflower 39
25 Tangerine 37
26 Mushrooms 36
27 Banana 34
28 Winter Squash 34
29 Cantaloupe 33
30 Cranberries 33
31 Honeydew Melon 30
32 Grapefruit 29
33 Sweet Potato 29
34 Tomato 29
35 Broccoli 28
36 Watermelon 26
37 Papaya 20
38 Eggplant 20
39 Cabbage 17
40 Kiwi 13
41 Sweet Peas - Frozen 10
42 Asparagus 10
43 Mango 9
44 Pineapple 7
45 Sweet Corn - Frozen 2
46 Avocado 1
47 (best) Onion 1 (lowest pesticide load)

Note: We ranked a total of 47 different fruits and vegetables but grapes are listed twice because we looked at both domestic and imported samples.

overheard in upper elementary

2009-04-09T09:15:00.002-04:00

One of my 10 year old students was coming from the washroom with her shoe off and i asked her what was wrong

"i have a splinter in my foot"

immediately one of her male classmates replied " i'll get the tweezers"

this is the community that has been extablished in the montessori classsoom. need i say more?

Silent Auction; Channel Your Inner Movie Star!

2009-04-04T19:46:00.002-04:00

Bid on an afternoon of glam with two of Toronto's top makeup/hair artists as you get ready for an evening of Puttin’ on the Ritz. Definitely a treat!

Not your usual makeup and hair session – Carole Brown has worked with celebrities from around the world including Kirsten Stewart, Zac Ephron and Heidi Klum. Ivy Lam has collaborated with many talented fashion photographers for magazine editorial campaigns and clients like Alfred Sung and Franco Mirabelli. Both are excited about the opportunity to donate their time and contribute to an evening of glamour for the lucky winners. Check out their portfolios on the web at:
http://www.ivylammakeup.com/
http://web.mac.com/carolenelsonmakeup/CaroleNelson/Welcome.html

Ichiban Sushi has kindly donated some nibbles and each guest will be served a glass of champagne.

Silent Ticket pricing is as follows: Minimum bid for 1 makeover is $100! Buy now price $250.00. Hurry and buy your tickets because the auction will close on Thursday, April 9 at noon.

Specs: Four makeovers are available with a retail price of $350.00 each! Please bid by the session. Please note that the times are approximate.

Session 1 3:00 - 4:30
Session 2 3:00 - 4:30
Session 3 4:30 - 6:00
Session 4 4:30 - 6:00

raptors tickets sold for $250!

2009-04-02T12:04:00.001-04:00

thanks for supporting camp avalon! thanks to our wonderful avalon family that donated the tickets.

keep your eyes open for our next auction!

Auction to Benefit Camp Avalon - Raptor's Tickets

2009-03-30T13:34:00.002-04:00

Win 2 Gold Tickets to the Raptors final home game while helping to support Avalon Children’s Camp!

Want to watch Bosh, Bargnani and Calderon hoop it up against the Sixers in GOLD SEATING?! Now is your chance! As our first silent auction item, we are holding an online auction for the Toronto vs. Philadelphia game to be played on Sunday, April 12at 6 p.m.
Silent Auction ticket pricing is as follows: Minimum bid for 2 tickets $200. Buy now price $350.00. Hurry and buy your tickets because the auction will close on Thursday, April 2 at noon.
Specs: Section 106 row 13 seats 5 & 6- ticket value $370.00.

Life in a vibrant school

2009-03-29T19:21:00.003-04:00

I just realized that it has been almost a month since the last post but life at Avalon never seems to slow down! Just before the 2 week march break, a group of Avalon ladies met at Supper Works to chat and socialize while preparing meals for our families. It was a great night and I have just finished eating one of the meals that I prepared that evening.

Right now, we are busy preparing for our Puttin' on the Ritz fundraiser and social on April 18, 2009. A committed group of Avalon parents and teachers have been working on this event since November, ensuring that we will have a fun evening and will raise the money necessary to fund our summer camp for children from low income families. It promises to be a great time and I will try to post some pictures on the blog ( not quite sure how to do that but i am sure that someone from the Avalon community can help me!).

Avalon Gives Back - Again!

2009-03-06T10:02:00.002-05:00

On Thursday February 26, the students and staff of Avalon participated in Lunch Money Day through Second Harvest. The Upper Elementary Class called out each classroom, challenging them to a contest to see who could raise the most money through loose change.

The results are in and our little school sent an eye-popping donation of $1,090.63 to Second Harvest - it included money raised by Casa 1: $112, Casa 2: $193.82, Casa 3: $135.57, Lower Elementary: $320.13, Upper Elementary: $153.26 and our catered lunch donation for that day of $175.85.

WOW!! Way to go!

Our next community initiative will be the Hop a thon for MS on April 16.

Who We Chose to be Montessori Teachers

2009-01-25T20:06:00.002-05:00

One night at a dinner party, the guests were sitting around the table discussing their children's schools. One very successful business man named Frank asked, "What's a kid going to learn from someone who decided his best option in life was to become a teacher?"

To stress his point he said to another guest; "You're a teacher, Ingrid. Be honest. What do you make?"
Ingrid, who had a reputation for honesty and frankness replied, "You want to know what I make....?"
I am a Montessori teacher, and, I think of myself as more of a guide for my children's than someone who gives lessons. But you want to know what I make?"

I inspire my children to think. I nurture their curiosity, creativity, and imagination. I pass down to them a sense of wonder. I encourage them to question, not simply accept what I, or anyone else, tells them is true.
I teach them to learn from their mistakes, and to not be afraid of learning something new.I try to model kindness, honesty, empathy and respect, and lead them to not only behave, but to act with a sense of honor and self-respect.
I teach them how to apologize when they have given offense and to mean it. I teach them how to resolve conflicts and to win friends and earn their trust and loyalty. I teach them how to write and then I challenge them to write every day.
I help them to learn to read, and then teach them to love books and hear the author's words.I have my children show me how they solved their math problems, using their brains, not a calculator.
Most of all, I help them to learn how to learn on their own, so that they will succeed in school whether or not the teachers that they have in the future are inspiring and effective. I want them to be teacher-proof.
So you ask me what do I make? Truly, not much in terms of my salary, but the benefits-the children, their families, and my colleagues-are extraordinary!Teachers are not paid what we're worth, but we do it anyway. Why? Because we make a difference! Money is important to us all, but it isn't everything.

So tell me Frank. Since you asked me, what exactly do you make?"

Being a fundamentally decent fellow, underneath the bluster, Frank could not respond.

That's why some of us choose to teach, and some of us who are particularly fortunate end up as Montessori guides. Our children never lose the joy of learning!

a chuckle

2009-01-23T13:03:00.001-05:00

TEACHER: Harold, what do you call a person who keeps on talking when people are no longer interested?
HAROLD: A teacher

Thank You

2009-01-06T09:08:00.002-05:00

The Avalon community raised $2000 for Suzie and her mom! Thank you everyone for your generosity - in addition to cash donations, there were several offers to help the family as they adjust to their new living situation.

An Amazing Community

2009-01-06T09:04:00.002-05:00

As well as being a nurturing learning environment for our children, the teachers and families of Avalon have together become a strong and compassionate community. One family within our community needs our support at this time. Suzie*(name has been changed) is a student in Casa 3 – a little girl that radiates joy and who is loved by all who have come to know her. While on vacation recently with her mother, news came to the family that Suzie’s father had died. Shortly afterwards, their home was included in recent Beach break in’s and robberies. (You may have seen mom interviewed on City Pulse News.) While mom has yet to figure out all that has gone missing because their home was left in such a state of disarray, it quickly became apparent that included in what was taken were some of Suzie’s beloved belongings and a significant amount of money that had been received in sympathy from friends as well as Suzie’s father’s work colleagues. Community Centre 55 contacted mom and asked how they could help. And now is it our turn. Our community gathers on Tuesday evening for the Winter Performance. I will have with me a Family Collection Box and I invite your family to give a cash gift to ease the fiscal challenges that Suzie and mom are currently facing.
With appreciation.

Go to the beginning of the Reading Responses

2008-12-09T12:38:00.003-05:00

To read the compelling reading response by an Avalon student, scroll down to November 27 so you can get the full effect.

The Murder of Millions

2008-12-07T22:35:00.002-05:00

This chapter is so sad. It tells how the Nazis decided during the war that the Germans were the super race and there was no room in the world for Jews, gypsies, blacks, homosexuals and handicapped people. So they decided to kill all the Jews and that was more than 11 million people from all over Europe! This is why the Nazis built death camps. But while they were capturing and murdering all of these innocent people they were lying to the world and saying that the people were just going to work camps. A lot of people believed this lie! Some Jews were lucky enough to still be alive when the war ended in 1945 and the Allies freed them from the camps. But so many died, about six million people and this also included gypsies. We find out what happened to Anne and Margot and their family and the Van Pels. The women were sent to a different camp from the men. Their mother and Mrs. Van Pels both died from being sick. It was so crowded in the camps that everyone became very sick and a lot of people died from that and they also were starving to death. Margot and Anne got sent to a different camp called Bergen-Belsen. They had their head shaved and got tattooed with a number. Thousands and thousands of people died from sickness and starving. Margot and Anne both got very sick. It is the saddest of all that they both died just a few week before the Allies came to free the camps!!! After the war ended people often didn't even believe anything about the death camps because it sounded just to horrible to have ever happened. Otto Frank was the only one from the Secret Annex that lived through it. Their friend Meip gave him Anne's diary and everyone was so amazed at what she had written. Otto Frank found a company to publish the diary, and Anne's wish of becoming a writer came true.

I feel so blessed that I'm reading about Anne's diary today and if it wasn't for their friend Meip, Anne's book would have been destroyed from the Nazis. I have learned about a time that was to horrible to believe. I can't believe people could treat other people this way. No person is better than any other person. I hope the whole world reads about Anne's diary and learns from it how to treat others.

The Diary is Left Behind

2008-12-07T22:23:00.002-05:00

This chapter tells about how everything fell apart for the Frank family and the Van Pels family. And just when they were starting to be hopeful about the war ending. Somebody betrayed them and told the Nazis that people were hiding in the Secret Annex! Men came to the Secret Annex and broke into where the Franks and Van Pels were hiding. First they took all of the money and jewelry that they had. A German officer grabbed the briefcase that Anne kept all her diaries in and dumped it out on the floor! He used the briefcase to put the money and jewelry in. Then the families were taken away! After Germans left, their friend Meip and another lady who were hiding the families got all the diaries and pictures and books and locked them away so they couldn't be destroyed. The families were sent on a train to a horrible cruel death camp in Poland called Auschwitz. They were treated worse than anyone could ever imagine, it was totally terrifying and horrible. The Nazis just didn't care anything at all for how they were treating the Jews. They killed people just whenever they felt like it. Everyday groups of people were sent to the gas chambers to die. When families got to the death camp the first thing that happened was all children younger than fifteen were sent to the gas chambers! Anne would have died then but she just had her 15th birthday. When the Nazis heard that the Allies were coming they didn't stop, they just killed more people faster and tried to cover up their crimes!

I feel that it was disgusting how the Nazis treated the Jews and all the others in the Concentration Camps. I was so mad at Hitler and the Nazis because they were nonstop killing people and not caring that they were taking away warmth, food, water and even love from the women, men and children that survived or died in the camps. I feel that it was so sad that the diary was left behind and I feel that it was such a relief that Anne barely avoided the gas chamber!!!

Daily Life

2008-12-07T22:10:00.002-05:00

This chapter tells about how hard it got to have a normal life anymore with the Nazis taking over everything. Everybody who lived in the Netherlands had a very hard time getting food and things that they were used to having. But life was the hardest of all for the Jews who were living in the Netherlands and even worse for the ones who were already in hiding. The Netherlands were taken over by the Nazis for a whole five years from 1940 to 1945. By 1943 it looked like Germany was going to lose the war and that was a good thing. But it didn't stop the Nazis from still treating people very cruelly and most of all, the Jews. Anne wrote about how hard it was to be living the way they were but she admired the Dutch people who were helping them to hide because it was dangerous and they were risking their lives to do it. Anne wrote that they had some hope in 1943 because they heard on the radio that Germany was starting to lose the war. But they were still waiting for the Allies who were the good side to come and take countries like the Netherlands back from the Germans. Anne was also writing about how she was feeling after almost 2 years in hiding. Her diary was all filled up so she wrote on whatever other paper she could get. She wrote about how it felt to be growing up too. Plus, she was falling in love with Peter Van Pels who was hiding them! Anne heard on the radio that after the war the Dutch wanted to gather up diaries and letters to help to tell what happened during the war and how people felt about it all. Anne hoped that she would be a writer some day and write a book called The Secret Annex. But mostly she hoped for peace to come.

I thought that the chapter told about things that were very hard to believe, and to hear that they were in the Secret Annex for two years was terrible! I was astonished that the Germans kept on demolishing people's lives. I think that it was brave and hopeful that Anne kept on writing even with everything going on. I also couldn't believe that Anne had her first kiss in the time of war!

Going into Hiding

2008-12-03T22:52:00.002-05:00

This chapter of the book tells about how so many Jews tried to escape from being sent to concentration camps by going into hiding. If someone wanted to go into hiding they needed to have very good friends who weren't Jewish to help protect them and take care of them and keep thier secrets. But the problem was that the more that the Nazis made rules to keep the Jews separated from everyone else, the harder it was for Jews to stay in touch with non-Jewish people who had been their friends or neighbours or who they might have worked with before the war. Some families were able to find a place to hide together, but a lot of families weren't able to stay together. Sometimes parents had to give their children to complete strangers, and they knew that they might never see them again!

This chapter tells about how Anne wrote in her diary about trying to keep up with her schoolwork while they were in hiding. They couldn't do much during the day because people were working in the office in the floors underneath and some of those people didn't know they were there and would hear them. And they couldn't do much at night because they weren't able to turn on any lamps or lights because they would be seen, so they came up with different word games to play. They tried to keep up with news about the war from newspapers and the radio. It all made them very nervous and so scared to hear about what was happening.

I thought that the Frank family seemed to have been very lucky in one way, and very, very unlucky in every other way. They were lucky that they got to stay together as a family and that they had enough space and light to live in. But the horrible thing is that they even had to be in hiding in the first place. Some people had to live in small attics or under floors of houses! I thought it was really good of Anne to not give up on her school work even though she didn't know if he would ever be allowed to go back to school It seems sad but brave that homework became the thing that helped to keep her from getting bored. It made me happy to know that Anne also wrote stories, she was a very good story writer along with being good at writing in her diary. I would like to read her stories too some day.

Deportation of the Dutch Jews

2008-12-03T22:42:00.002-05:00

This chapter of the book tells about how the Jews in Netherlands were being sent to work camps, or at least what the Nazis were calling work camps. Anne Frank's sister Margot got a letter from the Nazis saying that she had to report to a train station. The train would take a big group of Jews to a camp at Westerbork. Nobody knew what would happen at the camp and nobody dared to ask.

It looked like the Jews who had moved to the Netherlands from Germany to stay away from the Nazis were in danger again. All of the same cruel laws were made against the Jews in the Netherlands too. At first t he Nazis would send letters to people to tell them it was time to report to the train station. Then they started just dragging them out of their homes. The Nazis seemed to be very angry with Jews who tried to protect themselves by hiding out. This chapter shows pictures of the outside and inside of the actual house where Anne Frank and her family had to hide out. It also shows drawings of what the inside might have looked like when they lived there.

I still can't believe that it was so horrible that most of the Jews were scared of getting letters to go to the concentration camps. I was also worried if some of the Jews said no, because I was so frightened to read a page that Anne or anyone she knew getting shot because they said no. I can't believe that Anne is only 13 years old and she is already dealing with all of these things. When I saw the pictures of where they were hiding out, I actually liked it and though it looked like it would be kind of an adventure for the family. But when I looked back in my book I realized that it wasn't an adventure, it wasn't a trip. It was real life.

Dear Kitty

2008-12-03T22:28:00.002-05:00

This chapter tells about how Anne got her diary for her thirteenth birthday on June 12, 1942. She wrote in the diary about her family, her friends, her school, things that happened in her life, and things she liked and like to do. The Frank family were living in the Netherlands and trying to keep life as normal as possible. But it was really hard because there were so many rules and laws against the Jews that it was hard to do anything normal at all.

The Frank family knew that it would probably just be a bit longer before the rules that the Nazis were forcing on the Jews took over their lives completely. Already people were being sent away to places that were called work camps. The Nazis would send a letter to the house saying that one of the family members or even the whole family was ordered to report to the train station on a certain date. Everyone was panicking. The didn't want to go, but they knew that the Nazis would just come after them if they didn't show up. It was because of this that the Frank family went into hiding in a building behind Otto Frank's office. Some good friends who were Dutch but not Jews helped to keep them hidden and take care of them.

I can't believe that it was so terrible for the Frank family that they had to go into hiding. I think it is horrible that Hitler put this army together and managed to convince so many people that nice, normal people who were just trying to enjoy their lives and families were better off in work camps or dead. I think that Hitler was a horrible monster, scarier than anything I could ever imagine in a book or movie! And it's even worse because this was in real life, and with real innocent people. I can't even think what it would be like to not be in charge of your own life and to be sitting waiting for the Nazis to come pounding on your door and take you away from your family. I think that Anne was so amazingly brave for everthing she wrote in her diary. She might have been scared, but it's so important that she wrote everything down in her diary.

Reflections on Anne Frank, Beyond the Diary

2008-11-27T14:33:00.002-05:00

The Upper Elementary students are finishing up a unit on the world wars and each student chose a novel for an independent book report. I was very moved by the reading response of one of my students and, with her permission, chose to share them with you.
Her book is titles, Anne Frank, Beyond the Diary.

Section 1: The Best Birthday Present
This section tells about how Anne Frank's life was wonderful the minute she woke up at 6:00 on June 12. June 12 was Anne's 13th birthday. For Anne's birthday she ot books, a jigsaw puzzle, a brooch and candy. But the most precious gift she got was a diary given to her by her parents.

Anne had many friends, both girls and boys. They only talked about everyday things, But now Anne's best friend was her diary because she knew her friend would keep every secret she wrote in her diary and so she named her new friend 'Kitty'.

I thought this chapter was interesting because I couldn't put it down the minute I read the second page. I thought this section was good to read and I would be nervous if later on my diary would be read in front of millions of people. When i saw my first Anne Frank picture, I would love to meet her and get to know her because she looks like she would be fun and filed with warmth. I think that it was terrible how Hitler tool over Germany and told the Nazi's that the Jews were the cause of every thing bad in the world! I was very mad because the Jews weren't the cause of everything bad because they didn't do anything wrong and they should not have been accused of anything.

Section 2: Fleeing to Another Country

In this section, I found out about all the things that the Nazi's did to the Jews in Germany to make them feel unwelcome in their own home country. The Nazis first took away work, businesses, money and savings. Then the Nazis started taking away all of the freedoms tht the Jews had. They made up new laws against Jews, so that they couldn't even protest against this unfair and cruel treatment.

Anne frank's father, Otto, could see that her wouldnt be able to take care of his family if they stayed in Germany. he was offered a job in the Netherlands so the family could have a fresh and safe start. But only after a few years, the Nazis took over the Netherlands too!

When I read about all the things that happened to Jewish families including the Frank family, I thought that it was terrifying to read. I would say, who are these people, why are they in my house and why are they taking everything away from us? We have done nothing wrong! i felt that this was atrocious and unfair. Why were the Jews being punished? i can't imagine what ti would feel like to have everything you love and care about taken away just like that. And there is nobody you could even turn to, because the Nazis made it all law. If I was Anne Frank, I would be devastated. I thought it was neat to read that she and her sister went to a Montessori school just like me. But I can't even think what it would be like to have no rights, no home, no right to go to your own school, no right to ride the bus, and to have to keep moving from country to country to find your freedom again. It would be very hard and tiring.

Increasing Your Child's Literacy - Fun and Easy!

2008-10-28T14:51:00.002-04:00

Just a single minute daily of wordplay can boost kids'vocabulary and reading skills, according to Sharon Darlin, founder and president of the US National Center for Family Literacy. Here's an example: pick a 'sound of the day' and look for it in food labels, street signs, even TV ads, Then, make up silly sentences - 'Tommy took terrible treats to the train today.'
Little games like this will keep you involved with your child's learning process, will link home and school and will provide opportunities for you to spend time together.

Exercise your right to vote

2008-10-05T09:08:00.003-04:00

This excerpt is from a Cheryl Richardson newsletter and I thought it was relevant as we head into a federal election that is definitely being overshadowed by the election in the United States. As I was speaking to my students about the upcoming election, they all referred to the American presidential candidates and referred to our elected leader as the President(yikes!). Remember that children learn from your example - show them what it means to be an active citizen. Get involved and Vote!

This article was written during the presidential election of 2004. It's still relevant today and the lessons can be applied to Canada.
Here it is...

I've just returned home from a long trip, and this morning, as I sat down to relax and watch a little TV, I was pleased to find a repeat of the movie Iron Jawed Angels on HBO. The movie is about the struggle of the suffragists who fought for the passage of the 19th Amendment allowing women the right to vote. I encourage each of you to see it. It provides a powerful reminder of what courageous men and women can do when they are willing to take a stand for what they believe in.
Iron Jawed Angels is a relevant story. It's about two defiant women who pushed the boundaries of political protest to secure women's voting rights in 1920. As I watched the movie, I thought about a statistic - more than twenty million single women did not vote in the 2000 presidential election - a number that reflects more than enough votes to sway any election result.
Watching the movie again inspired me to encourage you to get informed so you can exercise your right to vote in a responsible way. To start, ask yourself the following questions:
Can I name the three most important issues that matter to me and my family?
Do I know where the candidates stand on these issues?
Do I know which issues I'd like to see addressed first?
Am I listening to my own voice or the strong opinions of others?

During the campaign, there's been so much finger pointing that it's easy to be influenced by the superficial mud-slinging while missing the deeper question of how our current challenges will be addressed. Don't be fooled. Visit the website of each candidate and spend time reading about their plans to tackle the issues that matter most to you and your family.

And, please remember to vote. So many of you have made the quality of your lives an important priority. And, when our lives have improved, our consciousness is raised and we make wise choices that have a positive impact on the world. On October 14, you have an opportunity to make a choice - a choice that very few people on the planet have. Regardless of your political position, please exercise your right to choose. Your voice does make a difference.

Finally, check out Iron Jawed Angels for the inspiration you need to stand up for what's important to you!

A GREAT START....

2008-09-28T16:04:00.003-04:00

Thank You Christine for arranging a wonderful evening. It was great to get caught up with everyone as well as meet some new ladies that are now part of a truly fabulous group of people!

This comment was sent via email following our first Avalon ladies night of the 2008-2009 school year. "A Girly Girly Thing" included our resident make up artist giving tips on the 5 minute face (the demonstration lasted about 45 minutes but that is because everyone in attendance loves to chat!) and a very informative talk on skincare by another one of our ' moms'.
The weather definitely contributed to the success of the evening - a warm fall evening gave everyone permission to enjoy a glass of wine, some great conversation and a few laughs.
The entire event was planned by members of Team Avalon, the same group responsible for the Avalon Family Fun Day. It is a truly fabulous group of people that continues to grow and strengthen as does their commitment to Avalon Children's Montessori School.

Avalon Family Fun Day

2008-09-11T19:40:00.002-04:00

Congratulations to those members of Team Avalon responsible for the 3rd annual Avalon Family Fun Day. Held September 6, the event was a huge success and a wonderful way to welcome the new school year. It was nice to see so many people reconnecting after the summer break and also seeking out new faces to welcome them to our community. As the elementary children might say "AVALON ROCKS!"

Parent - Teacher Relationships

2008-09-03T17:03:00.002-04:00

This afternoon I was flipping through a local magazine called 'The Kids Post' the special private school issue. I came across an article 'Straight Talk with Teachers Can Lead to Straight A's' and thought that several of the points made by the author may be helpful tips as we launch another school year.
The following are some simple reminders that will ensure a positive relationship will be fostered between your child's teacher and yourself. Of course, the person who will benefit most from this is your child.
- interpersonal relationships based on mutual respect, common goals and communication are most likely to succeed. At Avalon, we encourage the development of such relationships. At the Casa and Lower Elementary levels, each child has a homebook - a tool used by the teacher and parents to communicate about the child's life both at home and school. A teacher might mention some of the children that your child is drawn to and you might mention some of the activities s/he enjoys on the weekend. This simple tool establishes a connection between home and school right from the beginning. By the time the child reaches Lower Elementary, s/he may be making entries into the homebook themselves.
Teachers and parents address each other on a first name basis and this encourages a feeling of equality - parents know their children best and the teachers are experts in their field. Only great things can come from these people working together. There are also many informal opportunities for the parents and teachers to get together and forge relationships.
Our Parent - Teacher organization is called TEAM AVALON - need I say more?
- if there is important information that you think the teacher needs right away, ask for a convenient time that you may get together. A meeting early in the year to exchange information and lay the foundation for future communication can prove invaluable. This is especially important in the Montessori environment where your child may have the same teacher for several years. Everyone wants to make sure they get off to a good start - if, for some reason, that does not happen, contact the teacher and just have a chat. All issues can be resolved.
- find out the best way to communicate with the teacher. At Avalon, it is often difficult for the teacher to come to the phone during the day and we discourage impromptu meetings in the morning or after school. It is difficult for the teacher to give you the attention you deserve and it is not respectful to the child to be discussed in a public place. Call the school and leave a message for the teacher or send an email and they will get back to you to set up a time to chat (either by phone or in person).
- check your child's backpack on a regular basis - there is often important information that has been sent home and may be lost in the bottom. Discuss the newsletters, upcoming events, etc. with your child. Let him or her know that you are interested in all aspect of school life.
-get involved in your child's school - countless stuides on the effect of greater parental involvement on student achievement have reported higher grades, better attendance, great homework completion, greater participation in extracurricular activities, imporved attitude and better all around behaviour. Why wouldn't you get involved? Show your child that his/ her school and education is important to you. We are very fortunate at Avalon to have parents who do get inovolved on a regular basis in a variety of different ways.
- if you have a concern, do not wait until the parent-teacher interivew to address it. Contact the teacher right away, voice your concern and work together to find a solution. At Avalon, we will not wait until an interview to speak to you about any concerns that we may have - the sooner we contact you, the sooner we can deal with whatever the issue is and can move forward.

SUCCESS

2008-08-02T18:27:00.000-04:00

To laugh often and much;
to win the respect of intelligent people
and the affection of children;
to earn the appreciation of honest critics
and endure the betrayal of false friends;
to appreciate beauty; to find the best in others;
to leave the world a bit better,
whether by a healthy child,
a garden patch
or a redeemed social condition;
to know even one life has breathed easier
because you have lived.
This is to have succeeded.

misattributed to Ralph Waldo Emerson

CAMP AVALON

2008-07-21T14:16:00.002-04:00

We have just completed our second successful year of Camp Avalon! With 20 children in attendance, our days were busy and full of lots of summer fun. Week One included a workshop at the national Film Board where the children learned about documentaries. The next day an Avalon parent visited the Camp and continued with the media theme, allowing the children to create thier own documentary - they are really fun to watch! On another day, the children were given a disposable camera, a list of items to photograph and a time limit. The kids worked in partners and the shots were awesome - we had a group of budding photographers! Each child was given a copy of the photos in a photo album to take home as memory of their Camp Avalon experience.
The drumming workshop was absolutly amazing and we learned about the use of drums to create a mood in a film or play.
During Week Two, our dinosaur theme included identifying different types of dinosaurs, digging for 'dinosaurs' and creating our own trace fossils. This was definitely a hit with the children and the camp leaders!
We ate lots of good food - the homemade pizza and chocolate chip cookies made by the children were delicious.
It was a wonderful experience for everyone and we look forward to providing the summer camp experience for more children during the summer of 2009!

Elementary Track and Field Meet

2008-05-31T19:54:00.003-04:00

GO TEAM!!!!!

On Thursday May 29, the entire Elementary school participated in the Independant School's Athletic Association's annual track and field meet. The sun was shining and the weather was absolutely perfect for an outdoor event. The students did a wonderful job, everyone trying their very best and demonstrating an amazing level of sportmanship.
Congratulations to all the children on a fantastic event and on behalf of the teachers, I want to let them know that we were proud of each and every one of them.

Thanks to the parents who came and supported the children at the meet - Avalon is definitely a 'small school with a big heart!'

UPPER ELEMENTARY OUTDOOR RETREAT

2008-05-16T15:30:00.002-04:00

The students and teachers of the Upper Elementary class headed north to Mulmur Montessori Outdoor Centre on April 29, 2008 for 3 days. it was a wonderful experience for everyone and below is a summary of the trip, written by one of the students upon return.

Day 1
When we got to the camp, we put our sleeping bags inside and went upstairs to sit on the carpet. When we sat on the carpet, we chose nature names. My name is Huckleberry and other names were Blue Fox, Red Fox, Butter Cup. Blossom, Diamond and Sparrow.

We were assigned our rooms and went to get our bags from downstairs. When we brought our bags to our rooms, we only had time to unpack our sleeping bags and then we were called for lunch. For lunch we had soup and then pizza - it was really good! The we put on our coats and went for a hike. When we got back we had dinner, played some games and went to bed. ( I only slept for 4 hours that night!). And before bed one of my classmates was fake snoring - that was funny.

Day 2
We woke up at 5AM and had to wait until 8AM to have breakfast. For breakfast, we had pancakes, sausages and orange juice - it was yummy!
Then we split into 2 groups and went into the forest and Hemlock ( one of the leaders) marked a path up the hill with trail markers and we played nature detectives. Nature detectives is a game to see how many things you can find that do not belong in nature. Hemlock put out 15 items and I found 12. Then it was time for lunch so we started heading back. We met the other kids and played tag before lunch.

Then we went inside and had soup and fajitas. After lunch, our group went with Ms. VanDerKooi and Blue Jay and she showed us different types of nests. Then we hiked to the top of the hill, saw a wood pecker and made our own nests. Butter Cup, Bluebird and I made a grouse nest.

When we got back, we went upstairs and drew pictures of nature and when the other group returned we had dinner. After some quiet time, they told us to put on lots of layers of clothes - 5 on the top and 2 on the bottom. We met on the porch and then walked to a path. We each walked up the path alone to the sound of the drum, and then sat on the benches. There was a camp fire and Cedar was playing the drum. Then we had a snack and sang some songs. When we got back to our rooms, we got into bed and fell asleep ( I was on up for 15 minutes in the middle of the night and when I looked around, Blossom was on the floor and above her, Butter Cup's legs were hanging off the bed!).

Day 3
For breakfast, we had cereal. oatmeal and oatmeal chocolate chip muffins - they were delicious! Then we packed up and went back to the fire pit we were at the night before. When we got to the fire pit, we each got a medallion, sanded it, decorated it and then put white paint stuff on it and hung it up to dry. We put our nature names on the medallions. While they were drying, my friends and I played a game up on the hill which was fun. After that, we started heading back for lunch. For lunch, we had grilled cheese and soup which was good. Then we headed back to school.

FRESH, a Fundraiser for Avalon Children's Camp

2008-05-02T08:35:00.003-04:00

On Saturday April 19, 2008 the community of Avalon came together for an event to raise funds for Avalon Children's Camp. Held at Mango Lounge, a very funky new venue in the east end, the social event provide an opportunity for the adults of Avalon to get together.
Over 80 people attended the event and enjoyed the wonderful food, FRESH martinis and amazing auction items. Old friendships were rekindled and new friendships were made - hopefully the children will like each other as much as their parents do!
This coming together for a common cause is one of the defining features of Avalon Children's Montessori School and we know that this community spirit will continue to grow and flourish in the future.
While we are still finsihing up from the event, it seems that we raised more than $7,000. This will allow us to provide an amazing camp experience for some very deserving children.
Pleae contact us at campavalon@avalonmontessori.ca for more information.

Montessori in the community

2008-04-06T12:41:00.004-04:00

Over the Easter weekend, I was at a children's walk in medical clinic with my 5 year old daughter. The waiting room was jammed pack with sick children and exhausted parents. The wait time was extremely long and some of the children were getting unruly - one particular child was climbing on the table and generally wreaking havoc on the room.
Sitting beside me was a little boy about 4 years old. He had a tissue in his hand and covered his mouth with it every time he coughed. His dad gently reminded him to keep his wet shoes off the chair and the boy willingly obliged. I chatted with the child and he told me about his little brother at home and all the items that the Easter bunny had brought him. He was very polite and well spoken. I commented on his wonderful behaviour to his father and several of the other adults in the room nodded in agreement.
As we continued to wait, his father and I started to chat and through our conversation I discovered that the little boy attends Montessori school and had done so since he was 2 1/2 years old. I should have realized it myself as this child demonstrated the confidence, self control and grace and courtesy that are all a part of the Montessori environment.
As I left the clinic, I was reminded of the beauty of the Montessori philosophy and was inspired not only as a Montessori Directress but as the parent of children attending Montessori school.

Montessori Education

2008-03-10T09:41:00.000-04:00

One of the many beauties of Montessori is that it provides the student a foundation that evolves into a life-long love of learning. What many parents do not know is that for a teacher, Montessori is a life-long learning experience. Through Professional Development programs and seminars at conferences Montessori teachers are continuously expanding their knowledge, honing best practices and even learning new ways of guiding the students in their classroom.

One of the other beauties of Montessori is that it is a dynamic, organic educational philosophy. Montessorians are constantly reviewing new research in all arenas from brain development to behavioral characteristics and discoveries of science so that they can better communicate with their students, their parent community and with one another.
What teachers learn in Professional Development sessions and at conference seminars they bring back to the classroom and they share with their colleagues. Through the process of sharing, they perfect their understanding of this new knowledge or the new technique and they are able to apply it, always within a Montessori context to the students in their classroom.
It is this openness to new information that creates the wonderfully supportive atmosphere in a Montessori classroom, where teachers are guides and observers who recognize that the classroom is a scientific laboratory filled with love for the child and for learning coupled with respect for new information as well as old, proven facts. In the spirit of science, the teachers are constantly blending their new knowledge and skills with the life-time of learning they have acquired as Montessorians. Each day in the classroom the beneficiaries of this knowledge are the students. And as they mature, because of their Montessori experience, they too will be open to learning new information. Equally important, they will be able, like a Montessori teacher, to weigh that information with an open mind and to determine whether it is fact or fancy. And after making that determination, they will know how to blend it into their current mix of acquired knowledge and share it with others. In so doing, they will be doing their part to better themselves and also to help better the world.

The goal to better the world by educating the child is an underlying foundation of Montessori. It was a good goal 100 years ago when Dr. Montessori first stated it, and it continues to be valid goal for today. Every Montessori teacher and every Montessori student is playing their part in helping to achieve that goal.

Maria Montessori + Your Child = Equation for Peace

2008-02-06T11:32:00.000-05:00

Throughout history, in all corners of the world, every generation has experienced prejudice, and at no time in the history of mankind has the world not known violence.

Throughout history, in all corners of the world, every generation has needed a leader that could focus a portion of the world community on the value of peace without resorting to violence. Every once in awhile, a leader has appeared and etched an important message in the world's history book, bringing peace to their small portion of humanity while generating a message that all mankind should live by. Each time a leader has appeared and made his or her mark, a little bit of progress has been made in the path to world peace.
Each of these remarkable leaders, based on the conditions and cultures of their time, sought to achieve peace or justice based upon educating their constituency to understand and respect the differences of culture and background in others. In their own way, they stressed the importance of avoiding violence as a solution. Jesus said, "Turn the other cheek." Mohammad said, "A man's true wealth is the good he does in the world." Abraham told his followers, "With justice comes peace." Martin Luther King told the world filled with prejudice that "Injustice anywhere is injustice everywhere." Hammurabi set out the first Code of Justice. Moses shared the ten commandments with a constituency that first disavowed them before finally understanding and accepting them. Gandhi said to the crowds that followed him on his march against oppression, "Anger and Intolerance are the twin enemies of correct understanding." The Dalai Lama has said time and time again, "We must have compassion for those that do not understand us and those we do not understand. We must look at the world as they see it and inflict reason, not pain." Maria Montessori, who closed her schools in protest against the Fascism of Mussolini spent years in India sharing knowledge with Gandhi and wrote, "Establishing lasting peace is the work of education; all politics can do is keep us out of war."

By providing your child a Montessori education, you are also taking a step towards peace. Although it is unlikely that their generation will know a world without violence, the world he or she helps create will lay a stepping stone that extends the path. Each generation that learns to understand differences in others, that learns to reason rather than to react, that learns to write history with a pen and ink instead of a sword and blood brings the following generation one step closer to a world based on justice and compassion rather than anger and ignorance.

Through Montessori, your child learns so much more than academics. Your child is provided the guidance to understand that all of life is a learning experience and that humanity shares a common planet that must be treated with respect. Your child learns to respect and understand the culture of others. Your child learns not to react with anger or violence, but with compassion and reason when confronted with opposition and ignorance. Your child learns neither to be afraid of the thoughts of others nor to diminish the value of his own thoughts. Your child learns to think independently of the crowd, and your child learns to express his or her thoughts with words based on reason. The Montessori education you are providing your child is your contribution to the world he or she will inherit. It is an important responsibility that we share with you.

Praise from one of our Families

2008-01-31T11:55:00.000-05:00

Sometimes when you are running a school it is easy to get caught up in the details so it is very nice when we receive positive feedback from our families. It serves to remind us that what we do is appreciated and that we are making a difference in people's lives.
The following is an excerpt of an email we recently received.

Good Morning,

We were thrilled to read the recent letter you sent home regarding moving our son up to the elementary classroom in the fall of ’08.
I believe I had a tear in my eye and my son was so excited to hear this news.

We are so blessed to have found such a wonderful school for our son and an amazing family of teachers to nurture him.

The New Year at Avalon

2008-01-22T17:52:00.000-05:00

Although we are only in the 3rd week of the new year, life at Avalon is moving along at full speed. This is always a busy time for the students, teacher and Directors of the school. The students return to school after the winter break, ready to focus and begin new and exciting projects. Afterschool activities are limited at this time of the year and families spend more time together indoors. This contributes to the increased productivity that we see in the classrooms. We need embrace this situation as spring is just around the corner, bringing longer days,later nights and less focus on academics.
The teachers recognize this and are busily engaging and challenging their students. Healthy lifestyles,the human body, the continents, Chinese New Year and Ancient Egypt are some of the topics that are being discussed in the classrooms.
The School Directors are busy planning family actitivities for the Avalon community, organizing Camp Avalon and planning for the 2008 - 2009 school year. Life is busy but fun for everyone at Avalon!

Why Montessori?

2007-12-31T07:42:00.000-05:00

There is a sense of excitement in the air as we return from the holidays filled with enthusiasm for the New Year and new learning experiences. Around the world, in every culture there is a celebration of seasons that parallels our own. The end of one year and the beginning of the next marks a transition for a new beginning. It provides a point for us to look back as well as to look forward. It provides a platform in time where we can look over our shoulder at what we have accomplished and what is incomplete and still to be done. It is a time for remembering and it is a time for planning.

The planning always includes thoughts about your child's future and recognition that the world your child will be entering as an adolescent and as an adult will be markedly different than the world you entered at these transition stages. Information moves at the speed of the internet and comes at us from all corners of the world. Research impacts the sciences as we knew them, reinforcing or changing the world's thought processes. Global warming and advancement in all areas of knowledge creates job opportunities that did not exist when you were your child's age. The flattening of the world by a global economy and a global information network may create an explosion of new opportunities, but how does all this impact your child? The impact is significant. Your child will have more career choices, but your child will also be entering a world that is far more competitive than the world you entered.

The service, science, manufacturing, agricultural and even teaching opportunities and the arts you grew up with are going to be markedly different from the ones your child will be able to choose from. The competition for these jobs will be greater as well. From entry level positions to executives at the highest level, companies will have a broader base of candidates to choose from. Even the world of entrepreneurial opportunity will change. Certainly someone working from their garage is likely to create another Microsoft, but will that garage be in North America? Will it be funded by a venture capital community in Silicon Valley or by a capital market in another spot on the globe?

None of this is dire. It is growth, and it is growth at the speed of the internet and the intellectual growth of the world's communities. This growth did not appear from nowhere. It came about and is built upon the foundation of knowledge that has been created before it. And it has been built by discovery. Discovery is usually trial and error and learning from one's mistakes. Discovery occurs because one is not intimidated by error, but instead accepts error as a learning opportunity and then building upon it. Discovery is usually less "Aha!" and more "Now, I understand."

The underlying value of a Montessori education to your child is that knowledge is acquired without fear of failure, in an environment where every mistake a building block that leads to "Aha!" or "Now, I understand." In these most formative years, your child's Montessori education will help build the foundation for him or her to develop a love of learning that is not deterred by obstacles or fear of failure. The ability to accept failure or a mistake as a learning experience, coupled with the Montessori values of human interaction and respecting differences will help your child to adapt successfully into the ever changing world he or she will be entering.

The importance of continuing your child's Montessori education through adolescence is more important than ever.

8th Annual Winter Performance

2007-12-21T12:36:00.000-05:00

On December 18, 2007, Avalon Children's Montessori School celebrated the holiday season with our 8th annual winter performance. As usual, the children did an amazing job rehearsing and performing before a live audience of more than 175 people!!!!!
Children between the ages of 2 and 6 years of age sang holiday songs and recited poetry - Twas the Night Before Christmas. It is amazing to see what the children are capable of when given the opportunity!
The Elementary students ( ages 5 1/2 - 10 years) performed ' A Christmas Reunion'. This lovely little play brought together characters from Mother Goose as they joined Father Christmas, his son Santa Claus and his good friends Thanksgiving and New Year for a holiday feast. Costumes were provided by the parents and the children looked wonderful. Once again, they dazzled the audience!
Following the performance, all the Avalon families enjoyed an opportunity to socialize and reconnect over holiday treats. By 9pm, the evening came to a close and all the little actors went home to some much needed rest.

Happy Holidays from everyone at Avalon!

Close of Auction

2007-12-17T11:51:00.000-05:00

The auction for the front row seats is now closed. Coongratulations to Ben's parents and Alex' parents!

$375.00 was raised for Avalon Children's Camp ( Camp Avalon)

Thanks to everyone for participating, it was pretty tight at the end. Can't wait to see what happens at the spring performance!

Winter Performance Seats

2007-12-10T12:06:00.001-05:00

HI,

Once again we will auction off 2 sets of front row seats for the winter performance. Bidding will start at $50/set and the bidding increment is $10.

Set A is on the left side of the gymnasium and Set B is on the right side of the gymnasium. Both sets include 4 seats.

Save yourself the wait in the cold weather and give to Camp Avalon! Bidding will close at noon on Monday December 17th.

Simply click on the comment section and you can place your bid ( i think and hope!)

If there are any questions, please direct them to Ms. VanDerKooi.

Good Luck!

Teach for Peace

2007-12-05T20:06:00.000-05:00

Teach for Peace

As we approach the holiday season, we enjoy the warmth and excitement as we get caught up in the spirit of the forthcoming holidays. We all enjoy the emotionally rewarding gatherings of family and friends and the sharing of gifts. Seize this opportunity sharing the spirit of the holidays and your culture with your children. The time you spend with them and the memories your create will be your legacy.

Another legacy we should all remember is that of Dr. Montessori. She began her work by teaching some of the most disadvantaged children of Rome. Her goal was to create an educated population, because she recognized that without education there could not be a world at peace. At this time of year, as so many of us wish for peace, maybe we should also consider becoming proactive in our search for peace. Many times the Dalai Lama on his recent tour of North America stated to his audience a very Montessori thought.

"For us to achieve peace, we must educate the children. It may be too late for us to see peace, but if we reach out to educate the children, they will accept differences and they will learn to respect one another. Understanding and respect are the first steps toward peace. If we give the children the gift of knowledge, when they grow up, they will be the ones that achieve peace."

For centuries, this time of year has been a time to reflect and to share with our families. It has also been a time to share with others that have less. How wonderfully beautiful, if in the spirit of the holidays each of us could also give the gift of education to a child. It is in this spirit of giving that the Montessori Initiative is creating the Teach for Peace Initiative in association with the Public Private Alliance Foundation and the Montessori Model UN.

The goal of the Teach for Peace Initiative begins with asking all interested Montessori schools to create a scholarship fund, supported by their local community. The purpose of the fund would be to provide scholarship(s) for deserving students that might otherwise not be able to access a Montessori education. If you are a school or a parent interested in creating a Teach for Peace scholarship program, please contact me, hwalters@montessori-mun.org . I will send you a Teach for Peace summary that you can use to get your school started. Participating schools will receive email copies of supporting materials that can help your Teach for Peace program be communicated to your community.

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Montessori and Peace

2007-10-29T13:34:00.000-04:00

On his recent visit to the United States, the Dalai Lama spoke at the University of Indiana to a filled basketball stadium. "We must teach our children with compassion," he said. "As a child, I learned more from the teachers that taught me with compassion and a smile than I ever did from those that taught with a frown." He went on to stress, "Through that example, our children will learn compassion and they will learn to apply compassion when dealing with others. With compassion, we can learn to understand one another and appreciate our differences rather than become afraid of them. Compassion is the first step towards 'internal disarmament'. When we can disarm ourselves, we can learn to concentrate on disarming the world we live in. It is too late for our generation. Our generation's responsibility is to the children. We must teach the children with compassion so that they will learn compassion. With compassion, they will work to solve the problems that we cannot. With compassion they will work on the problems that are manmade. They will care about global warming and they will work to turn the tide. They will care about human suffering and they will work to turn the tide. With compassion they will understand that we all have a shared responsibility to one another. Eventually, when enough have learned compassion, we will have peace." [We have edited his comments in summary].

The Dalai Lama could have been a Montessori teacher. Maria Montessori made it clear in her writing that through education of the child comes peace. That is why compassion and a global understanding of our world is such an important part of every Montessori students learning. Dr. Montessori wrote the first "Rights of the Child" for UNESCO. Those rights are all based on compassion. As Montessorians, we continue to teach with compassion to our students. As adults, we must remember it when we deal with one another.

Private School Fair

2007-10-28T18:23:00.000-04:00

On Saturday October 27, Avalon participated in the largest private school show in the gta. More than 70 independent schools participated in the fair which was held at Roy Thomson Hall. With the help of several parents ( and some extended family members!), we put on an absolutely beautiful display. Our booth reflected the feeling of Avalon Children's Montessori School - photos of the children at work and play, fresh flowers ( purple, of course), books and a staff that was helpful and courteous to all those who attended the fair, whether they were interested in Avalon or simply asking directions.
So many people left our booth with kind words, thanking us for being so helpful. For some families interested in Montessori education, Avalon was not a possibility due to geography. Rather than simply turn people away, the Avalon teachers took the time to find out where they lived and to recommend schools in their area. This is a definite benefit of having a well informed and active staff - they are able to refer families to other Montessori schools because they are active in the Montessori community and know the key players.

Cross Country Meet

2007-10-14T22:21:00.000-04:00

On Wednesday October 10, the Elementary classes participated in the Independent Schools Athletic Association's Cross Country Meet. As we had just completed the Terry Fox Run, the students were in great shape and were able to complete the challenging course.
The Avalon students displayed wonderful sportsmanship, cheering on not only their classmates but all the participants and several of our students placed in the top 3 in their age categories! Congratulations to all the students.
Thanks to all the parents who provided transportation and a great cheeering section.

Go team!

Terry Fox Run

2007-10-05T19:08:00.000-04:00

On September 28, the Avalon elementary students participated in the national schools Terry Fox Run. This was the third time we had done the run and it was another wonderful event, well supported by Avalon parents, students and staff.
It is always a fun event as we run/walk from our elementary location to our casa location where our schoolmates cheer us on and provide a snack. We then head back to the elementary school where we are weclomed back by the Primary Casa class. Recent Casa graduates are very excited to participate in this elementary event and are very proud when greeted by their former classmates!
The Upper Elementary students had organized a pizza lunch on September 27 where we raised $320 for the Terry Fox Foundation.
We will let you know the total amount raised by Avalon as soon as we get all the information back.

Avalon Orientation

2007-09-20T18:38:00.000-04:00

The Avalon Orientation Night at the Elementary School was last night and it was a resounding success. With almost 100% of our new families in attendance, it was a great opportunity for everyone to learn about the particulars of Avalon Children's Montessori School.
Tonight we have the orientation session for the Casa location and we look forward to an evening filled with the same energy and enthusiasm.

2nd Avalon Family Fun Day

2007-09-08T20:32:00.000-04:00

What a wonderful event this afternoon - almost the entire school came out to celebrate the start of the 2007-2008 school year!
The weather was spectacular - clear blue skies and a warm gentle breeze - and definitely contributed to the success of our picnic. The children enjoyed the puppet show, face painting and popsicles while the parents enjoyed the chance to socialize in a kid friendly environment.
Thank you so much to the members of Team Avalon who organized this amazing event - we are all fortunate to be part of such a wonderful community.

Summer's End

2007-08-23T13:55:00.000-04:00

It is hard to believe that another summer break is coming to an end! While it is sad to say good bye to the warm weather and fun in the sun, the idea of the new school year is very exciting. A new school year is a clear slate - anything is possible and we at Avalon eagerly anticipate each and every experience.
Don't forget to join us on Wednesday August 29 for our Meet the Teacher Day. This is a great opportunity for new students to meet their teachers, check out their new school and maybe even meet some of their classmates. Returning students enjoy the chance to come in, say high to everyone and to show us how much they have grown over the summer! This is also the time for parents to make sure that all the necessary paperework has been submitted before the official start of school.
So...enjoy the last days of summer and we will see you all very soon!

Annual Play Day

2007-06-13T20:41:00.000-04:00

The school year is coming to an end and one of the ways we mark the close of the school year is with our Avalon Play Day. The elementary students, along with their gym teacher, plan a fun filled day for themselves and their fellow students.
This event has become a tradition, with younger children eagerly awaiting their chance to become team captains! As the entire school body participates in this event, it is a day of fun, laughter and a bit of chaos!
Children are assigned a team colour and their captains send them an invitation, detailing the specifics of the day. Events include an obstacle course, sack race and three legged race but the highlights are definitley the water balloon toss and the wet sponge race. The pleasure of soaking oneself on a hot day is universal and the children definitely throw themselves whole heartedly into these events!
Each team is responsible for coming up with a cheer and we have a great time trying to outdo each other. Next year we have to remember to video our cheers because they are awesome!
By day's end, the kids ( and teachers) were exhausted and dirty but what a day we had!

praise from an avalon parent

2007-06-01T13:36:00.000-04:00

Quick note today! That was a Great Track and Field Day! All the children seemed to enjoy themselves and have fun spending valuable social time together!

HATS OFF TO YOU AND YOUR STAFF
in making it such a fabulous day for everyone!

It's always nice to hear these kinds of things, so if I didn't say it during the day, I'm saying it now! Thank you to all!

from a parent, new to the avalon enviroment, following our annual track and field meet.

Upper Elementary at Avalon

2007-02-07T19:41:00.000-05:00

Avalon Children’s Montessori School is unique because of our commitment to the philosophy of Dr. Maria Montessori. As evidenced at our centenary celebration, this commitment is shared by parents, teachers and Directors. Meeting the needs of the child is a key principle in Montessori education and is something we strive for at Avalon. Thus, as our student population grows older, we have committed to meeting their needs at the next level. We will provide a quality Montessori education for our students through to 12 years of age.

The Upper Elementary Classroom is a three-year program consisting of a combined class of fourth, fifth, and sixth year students. For most of our students this class is a continuation of the work they have been doing in the casa, primary and lower elementary classes. As this is the first year of the program, we will not have children at the grade 6 level and may have year 3 students join us. Of course, this will depend upon on the individual needs of the children.
The class is a small group of students that come together as a community of learners to work within a fully prepared Montessori environment. Our schedule involves receiving lessons, working with the materials and researching with the resources provided in the classroom. Students are encouraged to follow their own interests and drives and at the same time they are encouraged to go out of their comfort zone and challenge themselves. This balance often provides opportunities for achievement that the children feel genuinely happy about.

There is a strong focus on forming quality working relationships in the class. As it is natural for students of this age to find security within a group setting, Dr. Montessori accounted for this natural tendency by keeping the group a crucial part of the design of the upper elementary curriculum. Students work both in groups and independently. This work develops qualities like honesty, responsibility, friendship, a joy of work, and compassion.

Also, as the children get older, they are ready for the development of quality social relationships within the community. Opportunities are therefore provided for students to go out and extend their work outside the classroom. This allows the child to find her or his place in the community. It gives them a sense of how they fit in to the big picture.

The classroom itself is designed with the materials and resources in particular areas, very much in the same manner as the other classes at Avalon. Math, geometry, language, science, history, geography, and practical life are some of the areas in the class. To the new student, there are many familiar materials that they will recognize. Some they have been using all along and will now be used in new ways. For example, the same materials used for learning quantity and number in the primary class and for beginning multiplication in the lower elementary class, will now be used to introduce the concept of squaring in the upper elementary class. There are also many new materials and concepts to explore.

Overall, the goal for the students who enter this classroom is that they will continue their Montessori education in a way that ensures opportunities to achieve, be challenged, learn and find happiness in their work.
One of the many benefits of working in a small school setting is that the communication between the teachers and the everyday contact with the students offers the teacher and the students a sense of family, resulting in a great starting point in the new classroom.

A Day in the Life

2007-01-23T20:27:00.000-05:00

On Monday January 22, 2007, a group of about 12 parents participated in a workshop at the elementary school. The goal of the evening was for parents to get a glimpse of what it is like to be a student in the lower elementary class at Avalon.
Parents were assigned an age level and were given lessons according to that level - the age distinction was random and obviously does not truly reflect the Montessori classroom as all children are treated as individuals and lessons given accordingly. However, it was great fun to see parents visit the snack table, put their nametag up to use the washroom and to work with the Montessori materials. At the end of the evening there was time for reflections and it was wonderful to hear the feedback of the participants. Everyone enjoyed the opportunity and we will definitely plan another for next year!

Avalon Celebrates 100 Years of Montessori Education!

2007-01-03T15:19:00.000-05:00

Join us Friday January 12, 2007 as we participate in a national open house to recognize the 100th anniversary of the very first Montessori school! This is a very exciting time for everyone in the Montessori community as we recognize the amazing work of Dr. Maria Montessori, a true revolutionary and the inspiration for all we do in our classrooms.
Montessori schools around the world will mark the centenary in a variety of ways and the official start of the Canadian celebrations is the National Open House. Avalon Children's Montessori School will open its doors between 4 - 7 pm and we invite all to attend.
You can visit us on the web at avalonmontessori .ca for more information or call us at 416-686-6621.

Montessori Study

2006-10-16T09:43:00.000-04:00

According to a study reported in the September 29th issue of Science, Montessori educated children have better social and academic skills than children who attend traditional schools.

The authors, Virginia University psychology professor Dr Angeline Lillard and former Wisconsin University graduate student Dr Nicole Else-Quest compared the outcomes of children at a public inner-city Montessori school with children at traditional schools. Children came from families of similar incomes and were evaluated at the end of the two most widely implemented levels of Montessori education: preschool (3-6 year-olds) and primary (6-12 year- olds). The children who attended the Montessori school, and the children who did not, were tested for their cognitive and academic skills, and for their social and behavioral skills. "We found significant advantages for the Montessori students in these tests for both age groups," Lillard said. "Particularly remarkable are the positive social effects of Montessori education. Typically the home environment overwhelms all other influences in that area." Among the 5-year-olds, Montessori students proved to be significantly better prepared for primary school in reading and math skills than the non-Montessori children. They also tested better on "executive function", the ability to adapt to changing and more complex problems, an indicator of future school and life success. Montessori children also displayed better abilities on the social and behavioral tests, demonstrating a greater sense of justice and fairness. And on the playground they were much more likely to engage in emotionally positive play with peers, and less likely to engage in rough play.

Among the 12-year-olds from both groups, the Montessori children, in cognitive and academic measures, produced essays that were rated as "significantly more creative” and using “significantly more sophisticated sentence structures". The Montessori and non-Montessori students scored similarly on spelling, punctuation and grammar, and there was not much difference in academic skills related to reading and math. This parity occurred despite the Montessori children not being regularly tested and graded. In social and behavioral measures, 12-year-old Montessori students were more likely to choose "positive assertive responses" for dealing with unpleasant social situations, such as having someone cut into a queue. They also indicated a "greater sense of community" at their school and felt that students there respected, helped and cared about each other. “When strictly implemented, Montessori education fosters social and academic skills that are equal or superior to those fostered by a pool of other types of schools," the authors concluded. Lillard plans to continue her research by tracking the students from both groups over a longer period of time to determine the long-term benefits of Montessori versus traditional education.

Montessori education is characterized by multi-age classrooms, a special set of educational materials, student-chosen work in long time blocks, a collaborative environment with student mentors, absence of grades and tests, and individual and small group instruction in academic and social skills. Montessori is the single largest pedagogy in the world with more than 8000 schools worldwide.

Off to a Great Start!

2006-10-04T12:49:00.000-04:00

Well, September is behind us and we are off to a great start. The school year started with a bang as we held our first annual Avalon Family Fun Day. What a fantastic way for all of our families to meet and get to know each other!
Avalon Orientation evenings were held at both the Casa and Primary locations as we introduced to new families to the particulars of life at Avalon. Items addressed included a brief history of Avalon Children's Montessori School, the importance of independence in the Montessori classroom and practical ways that parents can foster independence at home, upcoming events, drop - off and pick - up routines, school policies and the importance of communication between home and school. At the end of each session, there was time for socializing.
The Elementary students participated in the national School's Terry Fox Run on September 29th. They did a wonderful job and seemed to embrace the spirit of the event. Check out the blog next week for the final amount raised by Avalon.