DOBSON MONTESSORI SCHOOL NEWS

April 20-24

WHAT IS MONTESSORI?

         In Montessori schools, children learn in mixed age group classrooms. Younger children learn not just from teachers but from older students as well. “The child that has to adapt himself to the environment can only adapt to it by copying others. If children did not copy, each man would start a new civilization and there would be no continuity. Human evolution is continuous because small children copy the older ones. The continuity of man is not a result of heredity but of imitation. ” ~Maria Montessori. In addition, older students develop their confidence and self-esteem by being able to help younger students. At Dobson Montessori, students enjoy mentoring; our older students engage in music, learning, and games with our younger children. Everyone is a friend to everyone regardless of grade level. There is a lack of bullying and cliques in Montessori schools as we learn compassion, respect for others, and the fun that comes with helping others.

KINDERGARTEN

         We are “Caring for the Earth” this month and everyone is excited to visit a real recycling plant on Thursday, April 23. Children need to wear close toe shoes for this tour. In class, we will read The Earth Book by Todd Parr and make a 3-D Earth Buddy to hang on our tree. Students will enjoy a hands-on science experiment revealing an image of the earth! Earth Day is celebrated every year on April 22 to raise awareness of the environment.  We will have an Earth Day party in class with sugar cookies decorated with an Earth Day theme.  

PRIMARY

         We are heading out to a real western town on Tuesday, April 21^st! Westward Ho! Students need to bring $6 to pan for gold (they will keep what they find in the sluicing experience), a water bottle, sack lunch, and close toe shoes. The school will pay for the field trip for the students which will include a tour of the mine, ride on the train, and visit to the original Goldfield. Chaperones will pay for their own admission. In class, we continue our study as we learn about the Mexican American War and the Gadsen Purchase. Students will make a three-dimensional model of the Alamo and learn about that famous battle. During this period in history, many Native Americans were removed from their land. We will read a book detailing the Trail of Tears and play a traditional Cherokee bean game. What was the Gold Rush? What happened at Sutter’s Mill? Students are creating a journal written in first person imagining what life would have been like in the American 1800’s.  

INTERMEDIATE

         Everyone is researching a different African country this month. Students will present their findings in a poster on Monday, April 27. We will learn to play a traditional African game played by children in many African countries, Mancala. We will make our own Mancala sets to bring home. This is a fun game to play with your family and easy to learn! Our annual Poetry Festival is on Thursday, April 23 at 9:15. See the attached invitation. Each student has memorized a published poem and an original poem and will present them for our peers and families on the amphitheater. We will rehearse during class time this week but parents should also help their students at home. Using gestures and an enthusiastic voice makes the poems come to life. Opportunities to present to an audience are important for students as they develop self-confidence in presenting their ideas to others. Also this week, students will bind all the poems they wrote this month into a book.  This is a nice keepsake to remember your child’s thoughts and emotions from the school year. We will also bake refreshments for our Poetry Festival.   

UPPER DIVISION & HIGH SCHOOL

         We are in full rehearsal mode this week as we polish our lines, block scenes, learn dances, master stage combat, and develop our characters in anticipation of our opening night! See the invitation attached to your newsletter and forward it to all those interested in supporting your student. Tickets go on sale Monday and there are a limited number for each evening. Don’t be disappointed! Buy your tickets beginning Monday morning at 8:30. Our students will continue their regular academic coursework this week as well.

PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES

         Primary and kindergarten conferences are now being held. Please be prompt for your conference out of consideration for those before and after you. We are excited to share your child’s progress with you!

POETRY FESTIVAL

         April is National Poetry Month. Our intermediate students will present their Poetry Festival on Thursday, April 23 at 9:15 on the amphitheater. Each student will recite a published poem and an original poem for their families and peers. Refreshments will be served following the show. Everyone is welcome.  

MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM 

         Our upper division and high school students will present “Midsummer Night’s Dream” in two shows at 7 PM on Friday, May 1 and Saturday, May 2. Everyone is invited to attend and even our younger students will enjoy seeing their mentors on stage. K-6^th grade students in attendance will be invited onstage at the beginning of the play to present two songs as the Greenshow. This is the full original version of the play so it may not be appropriate for those who cannot remain quiet and seated for two hours, but we guarantee you will be amazed at the quality of the production! It is hysterically funny! Amazing Renaissance costumes! Sword Fights! Romance! Suprises! And the most accomplished actors since Shakespeare’s day! But tickets are limited and go on sale Monday morning at 8:30 AM for $10. See your invitation attached to your weekly newsletter.

SUPER SUMMER 2026

         Make your summer plans now! Reserve your place in our Super Summer workshops and ensure that your child is ready for the fall. A great blend of academics and enrichment, everyone loves being with their friends. ESA funds can be used!

ESA Invoices

         4^TH quarter ESA invoices have been emailed. Make sure to forward yours to ESA to finalize your tuition.