Grace, Courtesy and Gratitude

Dear LJMS Families,

It is the time of year when we, as a school, take a moment to reflect on and express our gratitude for the school community.

We Are Thankful for our Work with the Children:

In 2018, I attended the AMI Professional Development Course offered by Trainer Jennifer Shields.  The focus of the course was on the pivotal role practical life exercises – and Grace and Courtesy lessons, in particular – play in cultivating a sense of community in our classrooms.  It is in the practical life area that young child learns how to care for their environment and their community.  They learn that putting away the materials they are using is not only a way to care for the materials they enjoy – but also a way to care for the other children in the class who want a turn to use the material next.  They learn that preparing snack is not only a way to feed themselves but a way to care for the other children in the class who are also hungry.  Over time, they learn that by sharing their skills (how to do a work, how to tie your shoes, how to offer comfort to a friend who is hurt/sad) is another way that they can make a meaningful contribution. For more on Grace and Courtesy in Montessori Education, click the links below.

We are Thankful for our Work:

During the course, Jennifer Shields reminded us that “we work in paradise”.  Everyday we come to a place where we have an opportunity to be surrounded by the wonder, curiosity, and love the children feel for their classroom and their school community.   Being an early-childhood educator is not an easy job – but it is intellectually stimulating and challenging as well as emotionally rewarding.  For this reason, we are so thankful that you have trusted us to be the Guides for your children.

We are Thankful for our Supportive Parents:

Over the past months, we have relied on parents in our community to be our partners.  We want to express our gratitude to each family that has already contributed to bringing snack for the community and to the parents who have donated their time to help with drop-off on days when we needed a little extra help.  We want to specifically thank the parents who helped us with the Fall Festivities Picnic and volunteered their time to help us set up, supervise the craft table, and clean up.   And, of course, we are super thankful for all of the at-home work you do to prepare your children to come to school (good rest, healthy breakfasts and lunches, and reaching out to help us stay in-tune with your child’s needs).

We are Thankful for our Teachers:

One of the privileges you get as a Director is a front-row seat to see how hard our teachers work each day to prepare beautiful environments for the children.  Each week, they reflect on the children’s interests and needs and plan individualized lessons to offer each child.  Each day, they come ready to be fully present for the children.  Our teachers are amazing.  And, we are so thankful to have them leading our community.

Here are two articles describing Grace and Courtesy in Montessori Education, Modeling Gratitude in the First Plane of Development and The Roots of Peace Education: Grace and Courtesy Lessons.

We wish you all a joyous Thanksgiving Break.

Ms. Heather