End of Year Reflection

As the school year draws to a close, our campus buzzes with excitement and anticipation. The air is filled with the joyous energy of students, parents, and teachers celebrating milestones, both big and small. From Awards Day ceremonies that honor academic achievements to the cheerful arrival of ice cream trucks, every moment is a testament to the hard work and dedication that has defined the year.

Awards Day is always a highlight, as we gather to recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of our students. It's a time to applaud their perseverance, growth, and success. Whether receiving a certificate for academic excellence or an award for the most improved, each recognition is a proud moment, not just for the students but for everyone who has supported them along the way.

Adding to the festive atmosphere are the fun and memorable events like ice cream socials and field days. These moments of joy and laughter serve as a reminder of the importance of community and the simple pleasures that bring us together. The sight of students enjoying a well-deserved treat from the ice cream truck or participating in a friendly game on the field is heartwarming and uplifting.

While this time of year is filled with celebration, it can also bring a sense of anxiety as we look toward the future and the changes it brings. Students are transitioning to new grades, some are preparing to graduate and embark on new adventures, and everyone is reflecting on the year that was. It's natural to feel a mix of excitement and apprehension as change approaches.

However, it's important to embrace these emotions and recognize them as part of the growth process. The end of the school year is not just an ending, but a new beginning. It's a time to reflect on the challenges overcome, the friendships forged, and the knowledge gained. As we celebrate these moments, we also look forward to the opportunities that lie ahead, confident in the strength and resilience of our students.

As we wrap up the year, let's take a moment to savor these celebrations, appreciate the journey, and look forward to the new adventures that await. Here's to a wonderful end of the school year and an exciting start to the next chapter!

Orton Gillingham: Reading Support in Lower and Middle School

In the dynamic landscape of education, one beacon shines brightly for students grappling with reading challenges: Orton Gillingham. At our school, we honor the individuality of each student's journey, recognizing that every child possesses unique strengths and needs. That's why we embrace Orton Gillingham as a cornerstone of our approach, particularly in our lower school, where we tailor support to individual students' abilities rather than confining them to grade-level norms.

But what exactly is Orton Gillingham, and how does it illuminate our classrooms?

Orton Gillingham isn't merely a teaching method; it's a guiding light for students navigating the complexities of reading difficulties, including dyslexia. Named after its pioneers, Dr. Samuel Orton and educator Anna Gillingham, this structured, multi-sensory approach addresses the underlying challenges in decoding and encoding words. It's not a one-size-fits-all solution but rather a flexible framework that can be customized to suit each student's unique needs.

Lisa Johnson, seen in the pictures below, is one of our Orton Gillingham gurus, whose passion for teaching and unwavering dedication to her students illuminate every lesson. Lisa isn't just a teacher; she's a guiding force, leading students through the intricacies of language with patience and empathy. With her expertise in Orton Gillingham, she serves as a lighthouse, helping students navigate the complexities of reading instruction and bridging the gap between struggling readers and literacy success.

In our lower school, where the focus is on nurturing each child's potential, Orton Gillingham plays a pivotal role. We understand that learning to read isn't a sprint but a journey, and every milestone, no matter how small, is cause for celebration. By grouping students based on their abilities rather than rigid grade levels, we create an environment where every child can shine at their own pace.

Orton Gillingham isn't just about teaching reading; it's about empowering students to unlock the boundless opportunities that literacy offers. It's about instilling confidence in young minds, showing them that with perseverance and support, they can overcome any obstacle in their path.