Fordham Family Times
May Newsletter
Meet Mrs. McGowan-Art Teacher
Hello, Fordham families! My name is Christina McGowan, or better known as "Miss M" to my students. I started teaching art in Marion County Public Schools back in 2017. My educational background is in digital media art and marketing. I worked as a professional graphic designer for over a decade before I followed my heart into the teaching field. Being in the classroom, teaching art has truly become my happy place. I feel so honored to be the very first art teacher here at Fordham Early Learning Academy and I am incredibly grateful to be able to create art every single day with the sweetest people I know, your children! When I’m not in the art room, I’m busy being a mama to my two daughters and creating wood art for my business, Teak Lane. In my spare time I enjoy thrifting, gardening, reading and creating. I am so excited to be teaching art at this very special gem of a school this year and I’m so appreciative of all the families who support their children’s love of art and learning. Go Foxes!!
Meet Mrs. Radimushkina-Pre-K 3 Teacher to our Early Learners
My name is Varvara Radimushkina. I was born in Russia, lived in Finland and Italy, and traveled to many countries, where I learned several foreign languages. I came to New York in 2008 with my husband.
I never thought I would be teaching one day. I was more into business, marketing, and logistics. My teaching journey began in NY. I wanted to give my children the best, so I returned to school, earning my M.A. in Early Childhood Education with a specialization in Montessori. I never stopped learning, I learned with my children, for my children, and from my children. Before relocating to Ocala, Florida I owned and managed a Montessori school in NY for 10+ years. I relocated to Ocala in 2020 and continued my teaching mission in public settings.
Today I am a proud educator, mom, and dancer. Yes, dance is my passion, second job, and life. I have danced since I was a little girl and I still do. Psst…It is a secret! In my spare time, I teach classical ballet at Stellar Dance Studio. I love nature, traveling, learning, meeting new people, and crafts. You can meet me in the parks, ocean, springs, and craft festivals.
I am excited to join Fordham Academy this year. I am passionate about helping little foxes grow into a wonderful generation of inspired learners. I believe in lifelong learning. I work to help every child see the hallmarks of their excellence to enlarge their powers. Go Foxes!
MAP Registration Opening Soon for the 2024-2025 School Year
Registration Opens:
- May 20th at 6:00 PM
- All online
- MAP onsite registration at Fordham on May 21, 2024, from 2:30-5:00 PM
- Families must have a debt card or ACH number to set up their account
Materials/Registration Fee:
- $35
Also please note there two separate programs for before and aftercare at Fordham.
Early Learners (Pre-K 3):
- $35 yearly registration fee.
- Parents/guardians pay the weekly Early Learner fees ($165.00) with no additional MAP fees
- Program hours are 6:30 AM to school bell and the school bell to 5:00 PM.
VPK/K/1/2:
- $35 yearly registration fee.
- Parents/guardians pay the weekly MAP fee.
- Program hours are 6:30 AM to school bell and the school bell to 6:00 PM.
Please refer to https://www.marionschools.net/Page/95479. There is a wealth of information on the registration process.
Character Word of the Month: Honesty
May Calendar
Staff Appreciation Week 2024- We Have the Best Teachers and Staff in the Whole Wide World
This year’s theme is “Celebrating the Best Teachers and Staff in the Whole Wide World!.” Attached is a suggestion of ways you can contribute to the fun of showering our teachers and staff with the appreciation they deserve. These are all optional suggestions. If you have other ideas or would like to show your appreciation to our wonderful teachers and staff in different ways, please feel free. We can't wait for all the fun to begin.
Check Out the New Stepping Stone Program at Fordham Early Learning Academy
Oh What Fun We Had in April
Gentle Carousel
Fordham Fox Fun Run
1st grade Field Trip to the Discovery Science Center
Superintendent Art Show Winner
School Calendar-2024-2025 School Year
Please mark your calendar. The first school day for the 2024-2025 school year is Monday, August 12, 2024. VPK and Kindergarten students do participate in a staggered start. Please see the full instructional calendar below.