JC teachers recently spent a productive day dedicated to enhancing their understanding of our Number Corner initiative. Working in grade-level teams, they planned lessons, observed a model lesson, and examined our Math Big Ideas curriculum alongside Number Corner to ensure strong alignment. By exploring the math standards covered in BIM chapters and connecting them with Number Corner activities, teachers deepened their ability to create cohesive, supportive learning experiences for our students. This intentional work allows students to build connections across our math resources, reinforcing essential skills and promoting deeper understanding.
Thank you,
Eduardo Calderon and Claribel Michilena
In kindergarten, our young learners participated in model lessons that encouraged active intellectual engagement in both writing and math. Recently, they enjoyed writing about places they love to go, sharing ideas like the orchard, Brazil, their grandparent's house and the cupcake store. Some of them used high-frequency words to create longer labels and sentences.
In math, they played "Spill the Beans," a Number Corner activity focused on building fluency. This also allowed them to make connections between the current number of school days and their math learning. See pics below of our AWESOME kindergarteners in action!
In November, we’re excited to celebrate several meaningful themes with our students and school community. This month, we’re embracing gratitude, honoring Native American Heritage Month, celebrating Diwali—the Festival of Lights—and highlighting the diversity and unity that make our school such a special place. To enrich our exploration of these themes, we are reading Luli and the Language of Tea written by Andrea Wang and illustrated by Hyewon Yum, an award-winning book that highlights the power of kindness and connection across languages and cultures.
The story emphasizes that when we seek to connect with others, we often look for a common bond. The word for “tea” sounds similar in many languages, and tea becomes the unifying metaphor that brings a diverse group of children together. In Native American culture, for instance, certain herbal infusions—often called “teas”—hold deep meaning. Plants such as mint, sage, three-leaf sumac, and cedar are used for their healing properties and for fostering community bonds, symbolizing respect and gratitude for nature’s gifts.
The book also includes fascinating material at the back that delves into the rich and ancient history of tea across cultures, featuring maps, statistics, and details that engage our readers and deepen their appreciation for shared traditions around the world. We’re excited to share these stories and experiences with our students as we learn and grow together.
