There were three important events that took place last week, and I was lucky enough to be a part of each of them.

First was the Pre-K Family Music Morning.  It was intriguing to see how much the children had developed since our last group sing. They actually got up on their “stage” (the risers) and performed for the adults in the room.  Most of the children knew the words and movements to every song.  They were even able to fold their scarves up neatly after they were finished using them!  Thanks to Ms. Espeland and Ms. Anderson for all that they teach the children during the year and for bringing in the parents to share the event.  Some parents have asked why the Pre-K is not part of the spring music program, but developmentally they are not ready to perform in front of that big of a crowd.  This was perfect.

And for children who love music, there are lots of summer classes to choose from:  Percussion, Recorder Ensemble, Music of the Seashore, Music of Germany, Stories through Music (Sing, Say, Move and Play Your Way Through Stories), and Hip Hop Dance.

On Friday, I was able to attend the Volunteer Breakfast, where about 50 of us had breakfast together surrounded by the astounding Upper School art show.  It really felt good to be able to do something for all of the volunteers who have given so much of their time to the school.  I only wish that all volunteers could have been present.  Thanks to the Development Office for arranging this event and to the Art Department for taking the time to exhibit such amazing art work.

After the breakfast, I was able to join the 4th graders in the library for their Authors Party.  Each child participated in a writer’s workshop for the last month and, in the process, completed a hard-cover book full of their very own writings.  What a proud group they were and justifiably so.  I not only have to thank the 4th grade teachers for arranging all of it, but also all of the parents who came in and helped students edit their materials.  There were some very nice exchanges among adults and children as parents helped other people’s children complete their stories accurately.

And for children who like to write or who need a bit of a boost in writing, you might try one of the writer’s workshops offered this summer or a class like Pop-Up Poetry or Now We’re Cooking and Writing Too.  All are wonderful ways to engage your child in writing.

The other thing we have seen parents volunteering for is the Global Kindness Mural that some 3rd grade students are participating in. This is a mural that they have designed themselves and are now painting on a 15’ x 4’ cloth.  When it is complete, it will be mailed to California, joined to other pieces, and will then be exhibited.  In 2010, it will travel to Egypt where there will be a 12-mile exhibit of kindness.  It is a wonderful feeling to be a part of a bigger community, and the conversation that surrounds the mural about kindness is priceless.

If your child enjoys art, how about Art and Literature, Jewelry Making, Origami or Pop-Up Poetry for a summer class?

Track and Field is May 30th around 12:30 p.m.  Come and join us for a pleasant day outside in the warm spring weather.  Students do not have to wear uniforms that day, but each grade wears a different colored shirt so we can keep track of them:  K-green, 1st-red, 2nd-yellow, 3rd-dark purple, and 4th grade will tie-dye their own shirts!

If your child loves sports, don’t forget about all of our sports camps; badminton, baseball, basketball, volleyball and tennis.

You know the year is coming to an end when we see the Pre-K and Kindergarten Round Ups, which are next week on May 31st from 4:00-5:30 p.m.  It is exciting to welcome all of the new families into our community.

The teachers sure do a great job of keeping the children engaged as we get closer to the end of school. This takes a lot of careful planning, and it is truly appreciated.