The Week of March 23

  Weekly Newsletter

Ms. Roya taught us about the Iranian New Year tradition of Nowruz on Thursday!

Nowruz, meaning “New Day” in Persian, marks the first day of spring and the beginning of the New Year in the Persian solar calendar. 

The Haft Sin table, or the table of seven things that start with the letter “s” (س) in Persian, is a central part of Nowruz and a family tradition.

• Sabzeh (sprouted wheat, lentils, or barley) – Represents renewal and growth. It is usually grown in the days leading up to Nowruz and discarded on the 13th day of the festival.
• Samanu (sweet wheat pudding) – Symbolises patience, strength, and abundance because it is made from wheat that takes time to sprout and grow.
• Senjed (dried oleaster fruit) – Represents love and wisdom, believed to promote strength in relationships.
• Seer (garlic) – A symbol of health and protection from evil.
• Seeb (apple) – Represents beauty and good health.
• Serkeh (vinegar) – Symbolises ageing, patience, and wisdom.
• Sumac (crushed red berries) – Represents sunrise and the victory of light over darkness.

Our Lesson on France over Zoom!

Our Community

New Grading Rubric for Charles Ellis Grades K-5

As we discussed during Mid-Year Conferences, a new requirement from the district states that all K-5 students must receive a final grade in each subject, which will be documented in PowerSchool at the end of this school year. Since assigning traditional grades to individual assignments conflicts with the Montessori philosophy, we have been allowed to concentrate on specific work habits and behaviors that contribute to student achievement. 

These key indicators include:

• Follows oral and written directions
• Works cooperatively
• Completes class work
• Produces best work
• Works independently
• Participates in class 

During each parent-teacher conference from now on, we will share your child’s progress on each of these indicators in each subject area. Your child’s Spring conference grade will be entered into PowerSchool as an end-of-year grade. These grades will not solely determine promotion or retention; rather, they will serve as one of several factors considered in making such decisions if necessary. It is important to note that while these work habits and behaviors do not directly measure academic achievement, they are crucial for fostering success within the Montessori environment. At Charles Ellis Montessori Academy, we embrace the opportunity for your child to show growth in these skills throughout the school year. We are confident that this approach will provide a comprehensive view of your child’s work habits and behaviors, supporting their development as independent, motivated, and engaged learners in alignment with the Montessori philosophy.

End of the Year Assessments

To help your child perform their best, please ensure they get plenty of rest the night before each assessment. A good night's sleep is crucial for concentration and memory. Additionally, a nutritious breakfast on the morning of the assessments will provide the energy and focus they need to succeed. Thank you for your support and cooperation!

i-Ready Math Assessment - This Wednesday, March 26

3rd Grade GMAS Testing Schedule

At Charles Ellis Montessori Academy, we are dedicated to providing a personalized and differentiated learning experience for every student. Our educators diligently tailor instruction to meet the unique needs of all learners, including those identified as gifted. Through individualized learning plans, advanced and enriching activities, and a supportive classroom environment, we ensure that each student is challenged and inspired to reach their fullest potential. We are committed to fostering a love of learning and helping every child thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Dates to Remember

March 26- Math IReady Assessment

March 28- Donation Dress Down

Mar 31-Apr 4- Spring Break

April 7- eLearning Half Day

April 18- No School!

April 22- GMAS ELA 1

April 23- GMAS ELA 2

April 24- GMAS ELA 3

April 28- GMAS Math 1

April 29- GMAS Math 2

May 1 & 2- GMAS Make-ups

May 7- Musical Explorers Concert

The Week of March 16th

  Weekly Newsletter

Welcome to the final 9 weeks of the 24-25 school year! 

As we enter the last quarter of the year, we want to keep you informed about the busy and exciting times ahead. This period will be filled with various activities and events. However, it's essential to remember that there is still much learning to be done. We encourage you to support your children in staying focused and engaged in their studies. Consistent attendance, completing assignments, and active participation in class will help ensure they make the most of the rest of the school year.

New Grading Rubric for Charles Ellis Grades K-5

As we discussed during Mid-Year Conferences, a new requirement from the district states that all K-5 students must receive a final grade in each subject, which will be documented in PowerSchool at the end of this school year. Since assigning traditional grades to individual assignments conflicts with the Montessori philosophy, we have been allowed to concentrate on specific work habits and behaviors that contribute to student achievement. 

These key indicators include:

• Follows oral and written directions
• Works cooperatively
• Completes class work
• Produces best work
• Works independently
• Participates in class 

During each parent-teacher conference from now on, we will share your child’s progress on each of these indicators in each subject area. Your child’s Spring conference grade will be entered into PowerSchool as an end-of-year grade. These grades will not solely determine promotion or retention; rather, they will serve as one of several factors considered in making such decisions if necessary. It is important to note that while these work habits and behaviors do not directly measure academic achievement, they are crucial for fostering success within the Montessori environment. At Charles Ellis Montessori Academy, we embrace the opportunity for your child to show growth in these skills throughout the school year. We are confident that this approach will provide a comprehensive view of your child’s work habits and behaviors, supporting their development as independent, motivated, and engaged learners in alignment with the Montessori philosophy.

End of the Year Assessments

To help your child perform their best, please ensure they get plenty of rest the night before each assessment. A good night's sleep is crucial for concentration and memory. Additionally, a nutritious breakfast on the morning of the assessments will provide the energy and focus they need to succeed. Thank you for your support and cooperation!

i-Ready Reading Assessment -This Friday, March 21

i-Ready Math Assessment -Next Wednesday, March 26

3rd Grade GMAS Testing Schedule

At Charles Ellis Montessori Academy, we are dedicated to providing a personalized and differentiated learning experience for every student. Our educators diligently tailor instruction to meet the unique needs of all learners, including those identified as gifted. Through individualized learning plans, advanced and enriching activities, and a supportive classroom environment, we ensure that each student is challenged and inspired to reach their fullest potential. We are committed to fostering a love of learning and helping every child thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Dates to Remember

March 21- Reading IReady Assessment 

March 26- Math IReady Assessment

March 28- Donation Dress Down

Mar 31-Apr 4- Spring Break

April 7- eLearning Half Day

April 18- No School!

April 22- GMAS ELA 1

April 23- GMAS ELA 2

April 24- GMAS ELA 3

April 28- GMAS Math 1

April 29- GMAS Math 2

May 1 & 2- GMAS Make-ups

May 7- Musical Explorers Concert

The Week of March 9

 Weekly Newsletter 

Our Field Trip to the Juliette Gordon Birthplace Museum

Gardening with the Third Years

Ms. Marissa teaching us about Austria all the way from Austria!

Friday, 3/14 there is no school for students due to a staff planning day and Monday, 3/17 there is no school in celebration of Saint Patrick's Day.

 State School Survey

Please take a few minutes to give the state feedback by completing the survey located at here.

St. Pat's Items For Sale 

At Charles Ellis Montessori Academy, we are dedicated to providing a personalized and differentiated learning experience for every student. Our educators diligently tailor instruction to meet the unique needs of all learners, including those identified as gifted. Through individualized learning plans, advanced and enriching activities, and a supportive classroom environment, we ensure that each student is challenged and inspired to reach their fullest potential. We are committed to fostering a love of learning and helping every child thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Dates to Remember

March 14- Staff Planning Day

March 15- Deadline to Order a Yearbook

March 17- St. Patrick's Day- No School!

Mar 31-Apr 4- Spring Break

April 7- eLearning Half Day

The Week of March 2

  Weekly Newsletter

Field Trip 

We will go to the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace Museum this Wednesday!

Culture Fest

The PTA Culture Fest committee has come up with a great activity for students/families to do regarding their own family culture. They are encouraging families to create a flag showcasing things that represent their family's unique culture. You can view this Video made by Billie's family as an example. 

State School Survey

Please take a few minutes to give the state feedback by completing the survey located at here.

St. Pat's Items For Sale 

In the Classroom

Ms. Ana 

We had a wonderful lesson about the country of Spain by a special guest from Savannah Arts Academy! It was a wonderful learning experience for the community!

At Charles Ellis Montessori Academy, we are dedicated to providing a personalized and differentiated learning experience for every student. Our educators diligently tailor instruction to meet the unique needs of all learners, including those identified as gifted. Through individualized learning plans, advanced and enriching activities, and a supportive classroom environment, we ensure that each student is challenged and inspired to reach their fullest potential. We are committed to fostering a love of learning and helping every child thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Dates to Remember

March 5- Field Trip

March 7- PTA Culture Fest

March 14- Staff Planning Day

March 15- Deadline to Order a Yearbook

March 17- St. Patrick's Day- No School!

Mar 31-Apr 4- Spring Break

April 7- eLearning Half Day

The Week of February 23rd

  Weekly Newsletter

Thanks for all your support in making this Boosterthon Fundraiser the BEST EVER!

Boosterthon Fundraiser Prizes!

Brain Break!- Any Day You Choose

 Snack Votes!- Monday

No Homework!- Tuesday

Wear PJs & Crazy Hair!- Wednesday

Extra Recess!-Thursday

Watch a Movie and Bring a Stuffy!-Friday

Donation Dress Down- Friday

All donations will support the Savannah Children's Theater. In celebration of International Montessori Education Week, your student is encouraged to dress like a Montessori material.  

Family Engagement- This Saturday

Culture Fest

Culture is more than nationality or ancestry—it’s the traditions, values, and experiences that shape who we are.

At the 2025 Culture Fest, we invite our Ellis families to share their unique cultural heritage. The goal is to help children appreciate diversity while taking pride in their own culture — whether shaped by family traditions, fashion, food, music, sports, nature, or community connections.

You can contribute in many ways: set up a learning station, display family artifacts, wear cultural attire, or come as you are to celebrate with us. We’ll provide tables, chairs, and tents — just let us know what you need!

We need your help to make this a meaningful and joyful celebration for our children and community.

Sign up to volunteer or participate Here.

Fill out a short survey HERE.

 Contact Wanzilu at s.nzilu@gmail.com if you would like to help or have any questions.

At Charles Ellis Montessori Academy, we are dedicated to providing a personalized and differentiated learning experience for every student. Our educators diligently tailor instruction to meet the unique needs of all learners, including those identified as gifted. Through individualized learning plans, advanced and enriching activities, and a supportive classroom environment, we ensure that each student is challenged and inspired to reach their fullest potential. We are committed to fostering a love of learning and helping every child thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Dates to Remember

February 27- PTA Zoom Meeting

February 28- Donation Dress Down $1

March 1- Family Engagement

March 5- Field Trip

March 7- PTA Culture Fest

March 14- Staff Planning Day-No School!

March 15- Deadline to Order a Yearbook

March 17- St. Patrick's Day- No School!