Sooo Thankful for DMS!

The end of May marked the end of MJ's second year at Dubuque Montessori School.  Last year, he just attended 2 mornings a week for 2 hours each, but this year he began preschool in a 3-5 multi age classroom.  We made the decision to send him 5 afternoons a week.  This was a big change at the beginning of the year; a change that I was very nervous about, but it really worked out SO well!  Him having a consistent schedule at preschool allowed Charlotte to have a pretty consistent nap schedule and thus allowed me to have a pretty consistent block of time that I could count on to complete some of my own school work. 

Most importantly though, MJ really thrived this year.  He loves going to preschool, and he looks forward to it each day!  His teachers, Mr. James and Ms. Cat are just amazing. I never have ANY reservations or hesitations when I drop him off at school.  I know that his needs are being met and they typically even exceed my expectations!  I really love the Montessori approach, and I think MJ has grown so much both socially and academically.  At the completion of this school year, MJ is writing his name, recognizes nearly all letters, can pronounce the beginning sound of most letters, is able to rhyme some basic words, sings his ABC's, counts to 10 independently, counts to 20 with some help, and name the continents (through a song).  He's also learned a lot about working independently, collaborating with others, and being a helper in the classroom. 

Here's just a few highlights of the fun happenings during the last month of school...

 Pajama Day at school is the one day all year the kids are shown a movie.  They wore their pj's to school and could bring a special blanket or lovey to cuddle with while watching Charlotte's Web.

MJ was thrilled for Tea Party Day.  The kids spend quite some time brushing up on their manners in preparation of Tea Party Day.  They are encouraged to dress up and they are served special treats and flavored teas on miniature china tea sets.  It's quite the production from what I hear! 

 

 

 

On MJ's 2nd to last day of school, I picked him up from school to find him covered in mud!  It was the day after a rainstorm and apparently MJ had quite a fun time splashing in the mud.  I was washing mud from his ears that night!! 

 



He was quite proud of his filth!

 

 

On MJ's final day of school, we were invited in for a special year-end celebration.  We were able to find someone to watch Charlotte (only 2 guests per child), so that both Mat and I could attend.  We began with some free play time where the kids could show their parents some of their favorite work.  Then, we worked with MJ to help him create a memory book.  The students then took turns sharing their favorite thing about the school year, sang a song for all the parents, and demonstrated a couple activities.  Then they received a special certificate and sidewalk chalk for the summer.  Last, we shared a great snack of fruits, veggies, meats, and cookies!  MJ really enjoyed having us at his school and sharing all of his accomplishments with us. 

 

 

 Proud Daddy

 Our baby boy!



MJ receiving his certificate from Mr. James

 

 

I'm just so pleased with DMS, and I'm looking forward to another successful year ahead.  Next year, MJ's schedule will stay the same and he'll attend afternoon preschool again with the same teacher in the multi age classroom.  I also just wrapped up my first year serving on the Board of Directors.  This year, I was elected to be the Secretary.  I really enjoyed the experience, but with new baby coming in the fall, I decided to continue with serving on the board but stepped down from my position as Secretary.  I'm really happy to have the opportunity who work closely with the school and its staff!