As busy parents, we are constantly juggling both work and family. As such, parents may not always be aware of certain dates that are very important at the school, either to facilitate dialogue between parent and teacher or because they are events where having a parent at the school can mean so much to our children.

Most parents who have been at the school a few years will be familiar with these dates, but for those who aren't, here are a few key dates to be aware of:

Open House (September)

Open House is important because it gives the parents an opportunity to visit the classroom with your child in a casual setting. In addition, parents get the chance to observe the materials that your child will be using during the year, as well as get a chance to become meet some of the other children (and their parents) in the classroom. The children spend a great deal of time cleaning up the classroom for the parents to come visit and take an enormous amount of pride in showing their classroom. Please note that this is not the best evening to chat with your child's teacher regarding individual progress.

Parent/teacher conferences (Usually twice a year)

This provides the parent with the best opportunity to meet with the teacher on an uninterrupted basis to discuss your child's progress with the teacher. While quick questions may be asked and answered on a weekly basis during drop-off or pick-up, this session allows for an analysis into each area of study, what might be expected in order to move to the next classroom, and any other concerns or questions the parent might have.

Parent Education Night (Throughout year)

This evening provides parents an opportunity to explore a subject that will enhance your child's Montessori learning experience. As this is an "adults only" evening, it also gives parents an opportunity to discuss relevant subjects and get feedback from experts and other parents as to experiences they might have had.

Mother's Day Tea (May)

Students plan for this special event and put all of their little hearts into it with much gusto! Each classroom will prepare their own special event, but as a general rule, a special menu is prepared, songs are learned and each mother treated like a queen for the day. As this is very much a one-on-one activity between parent and child, if you cannot attend, send a special someone in your place.

Spring Sing (June)

An event that will be replayed time and time again via video…although to the parent nothing comes close to watching your child and all of their classroom friends perform the songs that have been selected (complete with costumes). Watch in early June for the individual time of your child's performance!