Open House Conversations
By Alisha Gaskins, Director of Development and Marketing
We would like to thank our guests for attending Winston-Salem Montessori School’s November 5, 2023 Open House. We would like to extend our gratitude to the Family Ambassadors and WSM students who shared their experiences with the guests.
One student was asked, "What is your favorite part about this school?" The student said, "My siblings went to other schools. They told me they had little freedom and had to sit at their desks all day. I can't imagine having to do that. I'm so thankful for the freedom to go outside on a nice day and do my work in the sun or move to whichever room I choose. We have a lot of freedom, and I really appreciate that."
On the same topic of movement and freedom, one Guide spoke on seeing the benefits of movement and freedom within her students. "Sometimes a student will come up to me and say, "I have a lot of energy to get out. Can I run to the basketball court and back?" I say yes! Then, I watch over them as they run outside. When they return, they are ready to focus and work. Sometimes they need the freedom of movement to focus and work effectively."
We are happy to provide freedom and accountability to the students at Winston-Salem Montessori School. As students grow through each program, we see this balance of freedom and accountability builds their autonomy, confidence, and capabilities.
One Guide was asked, “How does the Winston-Salem Montessori School support the development of executive functioning skills?” The Guide spoke on how the Children’s House environment provides lessons on using the materials. Each child is taught to:
· Get all the materials they need
· Follow the steps for the lesson
· Clean up and return items to their place for the next person
As the students go through these lessons, they learn many life skills, such as thinking through what they will need to be successful towards their goal, completing sequential steps, and preparing their environment. Going through the steps of preparation and process enhances the child’s executive functioning capabilities, which aids them in life.
Evelyn Gilbertson, the Librarian, showed families the school library and answered any questions. She was delightfully surprised when a former student came to visit and reminisced about their time in the library and saw how much it had changed.
Both Program Directors, Holly Tosco and Cheryl Raymond spoke on the Powerful Literacy in the Montessori Classroom, how Montessori mathematic materials are used, and answered many essential questions.
Intermin Head of School Frank Brainard posed for the camera and added cheer and humor to the community. Mr. Frank is a crowd favorite, as always!
Tracy Carr, Director of Admissions was there to greet every family who RSVP’d by name. We appreciate how she gets to know every family and genuinely guides them as they go through the important journey of choosing a school for their child.
Our next Open House is Sunday, January 7th, 2024 from 2:00pm - 4:00pm. RSVP here. We’re excited to see you there!