Sunday, March 23, 2025

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!


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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


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