Montessori Buzz – Dec. 7, 2021
Dear MA Families & Friends,
COVID UPDATE: PCR tests for students
We have had some recent inquires regarding the media reports of Rapid Antigen Testing for students that is happening over the winter break and whether or not we are also receiving them. At this point, we are not and it is for publicly funded schools only. However, we received a memo this morning that you can request to also be considered for the program, which Tina did immediately. Whether or not we will be included will depend on supply, as the program sends 5 tests home with every student. We will notify families when we receive more information and if we will be included in the process.
What we do have, though, is a shipment of PCR self-collection test kits that just arrived. We are still waiting for the implementation package (there is a formal letter from the government with an identifying number for our school) that we need in order to start offering these test. We will notify families as soon as we have it, but in the meantime, the process will look like this:
- This testing option is available to symptomatic students and staff as well as asymptomatic high-risk contacts/exposures.
- You must call the main office ahead of time to arrange pick-up, which will happen at Tina’s outer office door along Waterloo St.
- To access this door, walk up the driveway that is between the elementary homes at 711 Waterloo St. There is a ramp on the right side, just before the bridge that connects the LE and UE homes, that leads to a door to Tina’s office. This is where you will pick up your test kit.
- We have a limited number of them (they only sent 50) and you must call the office first to arrange the pick-up of a testing kit.
The benefit of the PCR test: not having to wait and make an appointment online at an assessment centre. You can perform the test at home following the instructions included and drop it off at one of the participating drop-off locations; you can search for drop-off and testing locations here.
As soon as we get the green light, we will let you know!
Applications for Financial Support now open
Applications for Financial Support opened last week on Friday through Apple Financial Services. The Ann Marie Harding Financial Support Program provides tuition support for families enrolled from second-year Casa through Junior High and who have been enrolled at MA for at least two consecutive years.
Full details on how to apply, along with a Financial Support FAQ can be found through the MA Parent Portal under the “Resources” section. Or through our website: https://montessori.on.ca/admissions/financial-support/
Applications are due by Tuesday, January 4, 2022. Please contact Victoria with any questions: vlittle@montessori.on.ca.
Family Skate Registration is OPEN!
Join us for a fun night of skating and socializing on Storybook’s Skate Trail on Thursday, January 6! There is a maximum of 150 people per session and COVID precautions will be in place. Registration is required – links below. Families with children in both age groupings — Toddler/Casa/LE and UE/JH — can join either of the skating sessions. (Please register for one session only, thank you).
Toddler, Casa & Lower Elementary Skate – 5:30-7PM
Upper Elementary & Junior High Skate – 7-8:30PM
PJ Day Charitable Giving total
Wow! Thank you to all the MA families who donated loose change on PJ Day!! $2,358.75 is the grand total! Your generous donations will support the two programs the CHF committee in Junior High has chosen for this year:
- The Child Life program – which wants to install 8 gaming consoles around the hospital.
- Opportunities to Participate – which allows children with disabilities the chance to play sports.
What’s for Dinner? order deadline is tonight!
Don’t forget to get your “What’s for Dinner?” order in before midnight tonight. Did you hear? Turkey Burgers and Beet Burgers were just added to the menu last week!
Place your order online today before it’s too late https://montessori.on.ca/whats-for-dinner/ And yes! There are still Gingerbread Cookie Dough kits available! Order pick-up is Tuesday, December 14th at Growing Chefs! HQ on King St.
Photos from the week
Toddler gluing
Gluing is always a popular piece of work in our Toddler classroom. It’s great for strengthening fine motor control (getting the hand ready for writing), independence, and concentration!
Hanukkah Celebrations
During December, the classrooms learn about the various celebrations that take place this time of year. The last few weeks, Hanukkah has been the focus.
In Toddler 2, the students enjoy latkes and apple sauce.
In Casa 3, the students coloured menorahs to decorate their classroom!
Waterloo Casa Mexico study
Casa Waterloo wrapped up their study of North America with a Mexican Fiesta. We had tacos for snack, learned the Mexican hat dance, wore sombreros and had a Piñata!! So much fun!!!
Waterloo Casa Puzzle map video
The Montessori Puzzle Maps of the world call on so many skills that a child possesses. First the child needs to be able to name the continents, provinces or countries. They then trace the pieces after placing them in the appropriate place. Next comes shading and painting the ocean. After writing out the names on labels, cutting them out and gluing them on their map, they are finally ready to take their map home. Maps are definitely a labour of love.
From the Community
Growing Chefs! Ontario newsletter
Winter/Spring Growing Chefs! Cooking Programs for Kids
Holiday Circus Camp
holiday day circus camp Santa’s Workshop for ages 4-16 coming up from December 20th to 23rd. Parents can sign up their children for a daily camp from 9:00am – 3:30pm for $70 or a discounted 4 days camp for $250. For those who sign up for the 4 days camp, on the last day, the campers will perform a little mini show, to showcase all the new skills that they have learned.
Register online through the website: https://www.theacademycircus.com/about-4