Maryel Journal
September 2024
In this Issue
Pre-K 3 – A Remarkable Start
By Srta. Maria Chavez.
Pk3 teacher
Curriculum Night
A Celebration of Learning
and Collaboration
Kindergarten- Growing in two languages
By Ms. Tiffany Contreras
Kindergarten Bilingual Teacher
Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration
Celebrating Maryel’s International Spirit
Enriching the Passions of Our Students: After School Programs at Maryel School
Beyond the Classrooms
The speed and confidence with our student adapt to the challenges of a new school year are directly related to the fact that Maryel is a small school. This unique environment provides a space where our students feel safe, calm, loved and heard. Our small school distinction fosters and atmosphere that empowers students to embrace new experiences with assurance and resilience.
At Maryel, we take great pride in being considered a small school, and for good reason. The advantages that come with this distinction enrich the educational experience for our students, fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and supported. One of the primary benefits of being a small school is the individualized attention we can offer to each student. Our teachers have the time and capacity to get to know every child personally, allowing them to tailor their teaching strategies to meet individual learning needs. This personalized approach helps students thrive academically, as they receive the support necessary to reach their full potential. In addition to academic support, our small school environment creates a family-like atmosphere that promotes emotional well-being.
At Maryel we are not only focused on academic success; we are also attuned to the emotional and psychological needs of each child. This holistic approach ensures that students feel safe, understood, and valued, which is essential for their overall development. The close-knit community at our school fosters strong relationships among students, teachers, and families. This sense of belonging creates a supportive environment where students can express themselves freely and build lasting friendships.
Every child deserves the opportunity to flourish academically and emotionally, and our small school setting allows us to fulfill that promise. Together, we are more than just a school; we are a family dedicated to nurturing the growth and success of every student.
As we now enter the month of October, I encourage you to reflect on the progress already made and to trust in the process that lies ahead. Together, we will navigate the challenges and celebrate the achievements, guiding your child toward a year full of growth and discovery.
Warmly
Celine Cacho
Head of School
Pre-K 3 – A Remarkable Start
By Srta. Maria Chavez Pk3 teacher
It has been such a joy to welcome our Pre-K3 students into the classroom and witness the beginning of their academic journey. For many of them, this is their very first experience in a school setting, and I know how much emotion comes with that—for both the children and their families. Despite their age, our Pre-K-3 students have shown an incredible capacity to adapt. What has impressed me, even more, is that our Pre-K-3 class is immersed in a language that is not their native one—Spanish—and yet, in just four short weeks, they are already understanding and responding to simple directions in a second language. It’s truly amazing to see how quickly they are absorbing the language and navigating their day-to-day activities with confidence.
It’s not just about academics at this stage; it’s about making sure each child feels comfortable and confident in this new world of learning. I am incredibly grateful for the support I receive each day from the school’s leadership and our team. The thoughtful curriculum, the collaborative spirit among staff, and the strong sense of community we have here at Maryel School make all the difference in providing the best environment for our little ones to thrive. Congratulations to my amazing Pre-K-3 students! You are off to a fantastic start, and I couldn’t be prouder of each and every one of you!
Curriculum Night
A Celebration of Learning and Collaboration
This September, we proudly celebrated our annual Curriculum Night, a significant event that brings together parents and teachers for an evening of learning and collaboration. This night is dedicated to informing families about the academic expectations and standards that define the high-quality education we provide at Maryel School. Curriculum Night is particularly special as it marks the first opportunity for parents to meet with teachers and discuss the goals we have for our students.
It is a time for open dialogue, where families can learn about the various approaches and strategies we implement to support each child’s educational journey. Our dedicated teachers shared valuable insights into the curriculum, emphasizing the importance of partnership between home and school in fostering a positive learning environment. The atmosphere during the event was filled with excitement and anticipation, as parents engaged with teachers and gained a deeper understanding of the academic framework that guides their children’s education. The collaboration and enthusiasm displayed during Curriculum Night highlighted the strong sense of community that exists at Maryel School.
Kindergarten – Growing Up in Two Languages
By Ms. Tiffany Contreras, Kindergarten Bilingual Teacher
I am thrilled to be the bilingual Kindergarten teacher this school year and to share my excitement about our wonderful kindergarten students who have just embarked on their journey in the Dual Language program at Maryel School. As their teacher, I have been genuinely amazed by their incredible adaptability and enthusiasm for learning in two different languages. From the very first day, our students have embraced the challenge of studying mathematics, science, history, language arts, and music in both English and Spanish. It is remarkable to see how seamlessly they transition between the two languages, often without missing a beat! Their ability to understand and engage with concepts in both languages is a testament to their young minds’ flexibility and resilience. What truly astounds me is the ease with which they are acclimating to this bilingual environment. They are not just learning to communicate in two languages; they are thriving as they explore new ideas and concepts from different perspectives. This experience not only enriches their education but also instills a deep appreciation for cultural diversity at such a young age.
Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration
This month we celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month, a vibrant occasion that honors the rich cultural contributions of Hispanic communities. Throughout the month, our students engaged in various activities that highlighted the significance of Hispanic Heritage. From interactive lessons about influential Hispanic figures in history to exploring traditional music and dance, students immersed themselves in the diverse cultural tapestry that Hispanic Heritage Month represents. These activities fostered a sense of pride among students as they learned about their own backgrounds and those of their peers. By participating in discussions about customs, traditions, and values from various Hispanic cultures, students develop a broader worldview and learn to celebrate differences. This understanding is crucial in nurturing empathy and respect for others, qualities that are essential in today’s interconnected world.
Celebrating Maryel’s International Spirit
This year, Maryel School proudly celebrated its 12th Annual International Welcome Picnic, a cherished tradition that marks the beginning of the school year. This event embodies the spirit of our school and promotes the cultural diversity that makes our community so special. The International Welcome Picnic invites each family to bring a special dish from their country of origin to share with others. This year, we were fortunate to host the picnic at St. Vartan Park, providing a beautiful backdrop for an evening filled with camaraderie, friendship, and celebration. As families gathered under the open sky, the air was filled with the delicious aromas of diverse cuisines, each dish telling a unique story of heritage and tradition. From savory entrees to sweet desserts, our community enjoyed a rich tapestry of flavors that highlighted the many cultures of our students and their families.
The event was a testament to the importance of diversity and inclusion, showcasing how our different cultures come together to create a vibrant learning environment. As we reflect on this memorable evening, we are grateful for the sense of community that the International Welcome Picnic brings each year. It serves as a beautiful reminder of our commitment to celebrating the diverse backgrounds of our families and the enriching experiences they provide for our students. We look forward to many more years of celebrating our rich cultural heritage and fostering a welcoming environment for all families at Maryel School. Thank you to everyone who joined us this year and contributed to the success of our 12th Annual International Welcome Picnic!
Enriching the Passions of Our Students.
After School Programs at Maryel School
This September, Maryel School proudly kicked off our diverse range of After-School Programs designed to inspire and cultivate the many talents of our students. These programs offer opportunities for students to explore their interests, develop new skills, and discover passions that may last a lifetime. From nurturing the minds of future engineers in our robotics classes to fostering teamwork and athleticism through basketball and soccer, our programs offer something for every child. For those with a love for the arts, we provide music classes and private lessons, helping students hone their creativity and musical talents. Additionally, our chess club challenges students to think strategically and sharpen their problem-solving abilities. After-school activities are not just a way to pass the time but an essential part of a well-rounded education. Through these programs, we help students unlock their potential, build confidence, and develop skills they can carry with them throughout their lives. We are excited to see our students dive into these enriching experiences, and we look forward to watching them grow as they explore new passions and interests this school year!
Beyond the Classrooms.
First and Second Graders explored the Historic Murray Hill Neighborhood
Our first and second-grade students had the unique opportunity to attend a guided tour through the Historic Murray Hill neighborhood, led by a knowledgeable guide from the Murray Hill Association. During this exciting field trip, our students were able to immerse themselves in the rich history of the very neighborhood where Maryel School is located. As they walked through the streets, our students discovered a new story at every corner, learning about various landmarks that define the character of our neighborhood. From historical buildings to notable streets, each stop along the way gave them a deeper appreciation for the legacy that surrounds our school. These out-of-classroom activities are as enriching as the experiences students have within the classroom. This field trip was particularly meaningful for our first and second graders as it directly connected to their studies on the different buildings and architectural styles of the city. Exploring these landmarks in person allowed them to bring their history lessons to life in a tangible and engaging way. We are deeply grateful to the Murray Hill Association for this new partnership, which will undoubtedly enrich our educational offerings moving forward. We look forward to continuing this collaboration and creating even more opportunities for our students to learn from the world around them.
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