AMS Parent Blog

Executive Director Meet and Greet

2010-06-16T14:20:00.000-07:00

The Anchorage Montessori Executive Director Search Committee is pleased to announcethat two candidates have been selected to meet the AMS community and interview withthe Board of Directors.
Joe Gossett is scheduled to visit our school on Friday, June 18th, and KristiLachlan is set for Tuesday, June 30th.
We have scheduled a "Meet and Greet" time for these candidates to meet the AMScommunity between four o'clock and six o'clock on these respective dates.
This will be a time for casual conversation between the candidates and thecommunity; there will be no formal agenda or questions. We invite all parents,families, and staff to meet them in the Betsey Room at the school anytime betweenfour o'clock and six o'clock on June 18 and June 30.

Summer Program registration Fee and Discounts

2010-05-10T16:27:00.000-07:00

Great News! The board approved the new tuition rates for 2010-2011. Included in the tuition schedule is a sibling discount which goes into effect this summer. In addition, the board recently elected to waive the $50 summer program registration fee for currently enrolled students. If you enrolled early for a summer program, you may have been charged the registration fee and the full tuition price. We have issued credit memos for the registration fee and applied all sibling discounts accordingly. You will see these transactions on your statement. The teachers have some great programs lined up for this summer. If you would like a summer program brochure or enrollment form please see the front office. We hope to see you this summer.

Board Application Deadline Extended

2010-05-07T18:01:00.000-07:00

The Board of Directors of Anchorage Montessori School has extended the application deadline for Board positions until Friday May 14th. Applications are available in the main office. Parents with knowledge of fundraising,government, community relations and non-profit work are strongly encouraged to apply.

Parent Check in for Volunteer Hours

2010-05-07T17:55:00.000-07:00

The year is quickly coming to a close and we wanted to remind all families that there is still time to get those volunteer hours in. If you still need to fulfill your hourly commitment please see your child's teacher for possible projects. Families are also welcome to check in at the office to see if there is a need for a larger "whole school community" type projects that may need doing. All hours are logged in the front office. If you have questions about the hours you may have already completed be sure to check the log to make sure it is current and accurate. Thanks, Have a great weekend!

Board Vacancies

2010-05-03T09:13:00.001-07:00

We are looking for parents to fill four positions on our board. Experience with fundraising, government, community relations and non-profit would be helpful. If you are interested applications are available at the front desk. Please return applications by Wednesday May 5th.

Parents Wanted for Executive Director Search

2010-04-30T16:42:00.000-07:00

As you are aware, we are re-opening the search for a new Executive Director. We’d like to again have parent representation on the search committee. If you are interested in serving on this important committee, please contact search@anchoragemontessorischool.org by Friday, May 7th. We want to ensure balanced representation on the committee from all programs so we will be taking that into consideration when determining the makeup of the committee.

Miss Usha Looking for Housing

2010-04-27T14:46:00.000-07:00

Miss Usha is looking for a new place to live. She would like to move at some point over the summer and is hoping for a situation where she may barter childcare or household work for rent. If you have a situation that may work for her she can be reached via e mail at Usha.motha@hotmail.com

2010-04-13T17:10:00.001-07:00

There's still time to join the AMS Heart Run Team!!! Walkers and runners welcome, just go to www.heartrun.com. When registering you can find us under "Anchorage Montessori School".
Another opportunity to volunteer is joining the "AMS Cheer Squad". Come out full PEP ahead to show your support for our timed and un-timed participants. The sign-up is available on the main bulletin board.
And...Don't forget about signing up for a "Team AMS" T-Shirt as well. We are extending the deadline to 4/21/11. Sign-up also available on main bulletin board.
Please contact Amanda Ungerecht at aungerecht@gmail.com for more information.

Upcoming Events at AMS - April 2010

2010-03-31T23:53:00.000-07:00

April is proving to be a busy month! To help you keep the many school-related events straight, we’ve organized a listing of upcoming events.

April 1 -- AMS Open House: Help spread the word about AMS! Encourage interested friends or colleagues to tour the school and talk with teachers. The Open House runs from 6:30 to 8:00 pm.
April 9 – Meet the Executive Director Candidates: Here’s your opportunity to meet the two finalists for the executive director position. This is a critical decision for our school, and we are hoping as many parents as possible can come out, talk with the candidates, and provide feedback for board consideration. The event runs from 5:30 to 7:00 pm. See the attached flyer for more details. An RSVP sheet will soon be available outside your children’s classrooms.
April 10 – AMS Spring Carnival: The teachers (and Kelly!) are hard at work planning fun-filled activities for this year’s AMS Spring Carnival. Please join us for an afternoon of games, face painting, and of course…prizes! This free event is open to the entire Anchorage community and will run from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. Food will be available for purchase in the big room.
April 24 – Heart Run: Join fellow AMS students and parents in this year’s Heart Run event, benefiting the American Heart Association. Runners or walkers (including kids!) are welcome to join “Team AMS”. We are also hoping to organize a cheering squad to support our race participants (young and old!) as they cross the finish line. More details coming soon…for now, please save the date!
April 30 – In-Service Day: There will be no school on the last day of April; it’s an in-service day for teachers.

Class Schedules for the 2010/2011 School Year

2010-03-15T10:26:00.000-07:00

The Class Schedules for the 2010/2011 school year were "incorrectly" published in the AMS notice given to all students before Spring Break.

The Class Schedules for the 2010/2011 school year will be exactly like the schedule is today - there will be no changes to the schedule.

If you have questions, please contact the Front Desk staff or any member on the AMS Board.

AMS Board

Missing Gift Certificate to the "Dish" Restaurant

2010-03-15T10:17:00.000-07:00

Hello AMS Auction & Casino Gala Attendees,

We need your help...we are missing a gift certificate for Dish (sushi restaurant).
Please check the certificates you left with to be sure you did not receive an extra by accident. If so, please let the Macey/office know soon so it can be distributed to its owner. Our apologies for the inconvenience!

Thank you all again for helping/assisting/attending. It was an extremely enjoyable event and a huge success. Thank you!

Regards,
The AMS Auction and Casino Gala Planning Team

Anchorage Montessori School
Phone 907 276-2240

Thank You and the Auction continues

2010-03-02T09:10:00.000-08:00

Hello AMS Community,

I want to extend a sincere thank you to the AMS community for your help with the 2010 AMS Auction and Casino Gala. It was a thoroughly enjoyable event and the auction team appreciates all you did in making it a success! Thank you!

A few Gifts of Time/auction items are still available for bid. You will find these bid sheets on the table by the front door. These items will close on Wednesday, March 3 at the end of the day.

Gift certificates that have not been picked up will be placed in files. Be sure to look for them. If a balance is due, please talk directly with Macey at the front desk.

Christine Fagerstrom

Board Meeting on 4th Monday - Everyone is Invited

2010-02-18T00:46:00.000-08:00

Hello Parents—

The AMS Board of Directors meets monthly, generally the 4th Monday of the month. This coming Monday at 5:30 pm is our February meeting. These meetings are open to all and there are several agenda items this month that I'm sure will be of interest to parents, including:

Tuition rates for the 2010/2011 school year
Update on our spring enrollment campaign
Full day toddler program hours
Summer program
Update on the search for a new Executive Director

We welcome input from parents on these important topics—especially the tuition rates for next year as we are looking at rolling some of the fees and extra charges into the monthly tuition rate. One thing we are considering is having the school provide all of the snacks and including that in the tuition. So if you care to be part of the discussion, please join us on Monday night at 5:30 at the school!

Joann Mitchell

Volunteer Opportunity: Flyer Distribution

2010-02-15T23:57:00.000-08:00

Help get the word out about Anchorage Montessori School. As part of our spring marketing campaign, we are placing flyers throughout the city to increase awareness about the school and to encourage parents to come to one of our open house events in February, March, and April. Here's how to participate:

Sign up! Place your name and contact information on the sign-up sheet on the school bulletin board.
Distribute flyers. Ask the office staff for a set of flyers (provided in stacks of 10) and commit to placing flyers in all the family-friendly places you visit. Ideas for poster distribution include:
Coffee shops
Libraries
Book stores and toy stores
Dance/music/gymnastics/yoga studios
Athletic clubs and recreational facilities
Military bases
Report back. Let us know where the flyers end up. This doesn’t need to be formal, just provide the office staff with a quick list of the places you visited so that we know where posters still need to be placed. You can submit your list via email to anchorage.montessori@acsalaska.net or by handing your list to the person working at the front desk.

We'll provide a running tally of where the flyers have been posted next to the sign-up sheet.

Thanks for your support!

-- AMS Communications Committee

Gala Gambling Tips

2010-02-11T22:42:00.000-08:00

Planning on attending the AMS Auction and Casino Gala on the 20th but need a gambling refresher? No worries! A complete guide of game rules is attached for all gambling tables provided at the upcoming event.

Never tried Craps, Roulette, Poker or Blackjack? The 20th is your night to try it all because everyone is a winner. Experienced and inexperienced alike play for fun (no monetary exchanges beyond a "chip donation" $30/300chips) in a stress-free, child-free environment.

Planning to go for broke? Go for it! There will be trophies for the highest rollers to be displayed at school, home or office.

See you at the AMS Auction and Casino Gala on Saturday, February 20.

Gala Tickets and Babysitting

2010-02-10T10:43:00.000-08:00

AMS Auction and Casino Gala Tickets are on sale now
$25 in advance/$40 at the door
You can purchase tickets at the front desk or next week at our auction table at drop-off or pick-up.Friends and family are welcome and encouraged to attend!!!

AMS staff will provide babysitting during the gala
at the AMS facility (less than a mile from event)
5:15pm to 10:30pm = 5.25 hours
$45 first child/$25 for each sibling
Contact the front desk for more information

Gala Donations
Thank you to everyone who has already donated. We have a lot of great auction items but are in need of more. Please bring in your donations this week if possible. We need to prepare the program for the night festivities.

Buy your split-the-pot tickets.
You do not need to be present to win. Current total is over $300.

Marketing Campaign + ED Search

2010-02-01T13:25:00.000-08:00

On behalf of the AMS Board of Directors, I wanted to inform you of two important outcomes from the January board meeting, held last week:

First, the board is moving forward with an integrated marketing communications campaign that will officially kick off next week. You'll find more information about the activities we have planned and ways that you can help support this exciting initiative in the students' folders Tuesday.

Second, the search for a new executive director is officially underway. The position was posted in the Sunday issue of the Anchorage Daily News. The ad will appear again on Wednesday and run on ADN's website throughout the month. Other postings include local/state nonprofit and educational websites, Montessori-focused websites, and CareerBuilder.com. If you know of someone who may be interested in this position, please direct them to the CareerBuilder.com website, or have them contact the search committee co-chair, Rachel Witty at search@anchoragemontessorischool.org.

As always, we are happy to hear from you. Whether you have suggestions, questions, or just want to come observe, we invite you to come to the board meetings, which are held the last Monday of the month at 5:30 pm.

Thank you for your continued support!

Sincerely,

Joann Mitchell
Chair, AMS Board of Directors

Auction and Casino Gala Tickets On Sale Now

2010-01-27T11:44:00.000-08:00

Anchorage Montessori School Auction and Casino Gala
Saturday, February 20, 2010

Tickets on sale now at the AMS front desk.

$25 each in advance

$40 each at the door

Volunteers Needed!!

2010-01-24T22:14:00.000-08:00

Anchorage Montessori School Auction and Casino Gala
Saturday, February 20, 2010

Please sign up today!
Help make this the best auction ever!

Sign-up sheet posted on Community Board…
watch for informational meeting to be held soon!

A Big Donation Thank You!

2010-01-14T10:27:00.000-08:00

The 2010 AMS Auction & Casino Gala is scheduled for Saturday, February 20 and auction items are needed!

Thank you to the families who have already donated:

· Sexton/Smith Family (who have procured 15+ items! WOW!)
· Duncan Family
· Reid Family
· Engstrom Family
· Norman Family
· Beltzer Family
· Mitchell Family
· Bonito/Begich Family
· Holmer Family
· Simpson Family
· Sjostrom Family
· Badgely Family
· McKee/Erwin Family
· Schmidt Family
· Elridge Family
· Laufer Family
· Johnson Family
· Goodman Family
· Fagerstrom Family

If you have submitted a donation and were not listed above, please contact Macy (front office) who will include you on the donation log. All families are requested to bring in one donation (in addition to classroom baskets). Monetary donations can be made in lieu of an auction item. We respectfully request all donations be submitted by the end of the month.

For those of you needing ideas and suggestions, a two-sided list has been attached for your convenience. Remember…every donation equals one hour of volunteer service. Donation request forms, volunteer forms and procurement forms are located at the front desk.
Thank you in advance for your assistance!

Questions? Contact Christy Fagerstrom @ 952-6806

Pick.Click.Give.

2010-01-06T22:03:00.001-08:00

Last year, AMS received thousands of dollars in donations from the Pick. Click. Give. campaign. If you donated a portion of your 2008 PFD, thank you once again for your generosity. We hope to build on this success and encourage all AMS families to allot a small (or not so small!) portion of your 2009 dividends to the school. It's an easy way to contribute, and your financial support helps keep tuition rates down while we continue to provide your children the highest quality Montessori education possible. Pick.Click.Give to Anchorage Montessori School!

AMS Board

Free Chair Massages at Mom's Night Out!

2009-11-06T11:17:00.000-08:00

Event Update...

This Saturday, November 7, (4 to 8 pm) is Mom's Night Out at AMS. In addition to the amazing vendors, Adkins Chiropractic has volunteered to give Free Chair Massages!

Remember if you RSVP on the AMS Message Board or email bigreid@juno.com by 6:00 PM Friday, you get a Free Goodie Bag!!

Mom's Night Out Staff

Mom's Night Out - Saturday November 7

2009-11-03T11:15:00.000-08:00

Mom’s Night Out
This Saturday, November 7th, 4:00-8:00 p.m.
Shop in Our Relaxing Boutique “ The Big Room”

Alaskan Memories by Carol Benkovich
B’s Purses, Custom Purses, Totes, & Luggage by Jo Reid
Neal’s Yard Remedies, Organic Skin Products by Jane Nelson
Extra Hand Errand Service by Laura Miley
Tomboy Tools, Tools Designed for Women by Charity Maldonado
Silpada Designs, Sterling Silver Jewelry by Christy Fagerstrom
Stained Glass Art by Amanda Ungerecht
Sensaria, Natural Body Care by Jessica Badgley
Peruvian Sweaters and Crafts by Lissete Mixan
Pampered Chef by Glenna Bishop
Massage Chair by Rosanna Lee

Bring your Mom, Grandmom, and Girlfriends to indulge in Wine, Treats, and Shopping!
RSVP to receive a Mom’s Night Gift Bag.

Let us know at aungerecht@gmail.com, bigreid@juno.com or on the sign-up posted on the community bulletin board.

Parent & Child Night - October 21st and 22nd from 6:30-7:30 PM

2009-10-16T11:56:00.000-07:00

Families are asked to attend based on their child's program. The schedule is listed below.

October 21st

PM Toddler
PM Preschool
AM Extended Day/Kindergarten
Elementary

October 22nd

AM Toddler

Full Day Toddler

AM Preschool

Full Day Preschool

PM Extended Day/ Kindergarten

Children will have the opportunity to show their parents what they are working on in their classrooms. Come for a night of exciting work display!

Northern Lights Entertainment Coupon Books now available

2009-10-16T00:37:00.000-07:00

They are $50 and tons of great stuff in them this year. Parent's could consider splitting the book with another family.

AMS Front Desk

The 2009 Small Hands Holiday Catalog is Now Available!

2009-10-04T23:25:00.000-07:00

(Please see the front office for a copy)

This is your chance to purchase Montessori materials that your child can enjoy at home. Teachers may also have a Wish List of supplies that are needed for their classrooms, so don't forget to check with your child's teacher.

Purchases made through Anchorage Montessori School may qualify for FREE shipping if
(1) sales exceed $500 and (2) orders are submitted by October 23rd. AMS will gladly accept purchase orders for personal or classroom use. Please make checks payable to AMS.

If you would like to make purchases through AMS, please submit your orders by October 16th. This will allow us enough time to determine whether our sales goal has been met.

Individual purchases can be made online or by mail using the school customer # 100620.
Individual orders and orders submitted after October 23rd will be charged a shipping rate of 17%.

Take advantage of this promotion and submit your orders by October 16th.

AMS Staff

Montessori Voyage - September 24th

2009-09-22T15:20:00.000-07:00

Come Join Us for a Montessori Voyage

September 24, 2009
6:00-7:30
Anchorage Montessori School

The Planes of Development
Presented in the Big Room by Tracy Stafford
The four Planes of development define the stages of human growth from birth to biological maturity. Each stage lasts approximately six years and a different set of psychological characteristics can be observed in each stage.

Toddlers: Communication
Presented by Amanda Ungerecht

Movement
Presented by Liz Hamlin

Philosophy
Dr. Maria Montessori's system of education is both a philosophy of child growth and a rationale for guiding such growth. This system is based on the child's developmental need for freedom with limits and uses a carefully prepared environment. The prepared environment guarantees exposure to materials and experiences through which the child develops intelligence as well as physical and psychological abilities. The Montessori method is designed to take full advantage of the unique ability of young children to develop their own capabilities through self-motivation. We stress the need for trust in the child's potential for self development, the role of the teacher as a patient observer and sensitive guide, and the prepared environment featuring organized work in an atmosphere of responsible freedom.

The work in a Montessori prepared environment is ordered and sequenced by difficulty, teaching only one new concept at a time, and is, to a large extent, self-correcting. Each child's space is defined by a table or work rug, allowing the child the freedom to invite others to join in, or the option to work alone. Because many children of different ages are working individually with the materials, there is no need for competition. It is common for older children to offer assistance to younger children, reinforcing their own self-esteem, as well as their understanding of the concept or skill involved. Younger children look up to their senior classmates and learn much from them indirectly through observation. Each child relates primarily to his or her own work and individual progress is not compared to the achievements of others.

AMS Staff

AMS Board Seeks Fundraising Suggestions

2009-09-03T12:10:00.000-07:00

Our school's Board of Directors is asking parents and students for fund-raising suggestions. Ideas that are considered as possibilities will be rewarded with a voucher for a free meal/move night. Please submit suggestions with your names into a box located at the front desk.

AMS Board

Parent Orientation Night - Thursday, Aug 20th

2009-08-17T23:11:00.000-07:00

August 17, 2009

Dear AMS Family,

Please mark your calendar for our Parent Orientation Night on Thursday, August 20th from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM. New policies are in effect so we strongly encourage ALL families to attend (including returning families).

On a separate note, our teachers have informed us that they do not feel a need for a Staggered Start so classes will begin on August 24th.

Toddler Parents:
If your child is registered for the 2-Day Program, they are to come to school on Monday and Tuesday.
Students registered for the 3-Day Program are to come on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday.

We apologize for any confusion this may have caused and we look forward to seeing you at the Parent Orientation Night!

Sincerely,
AMS Staff

2009-2010 School Year Calendar

2009-08-13T13:10:00.000-07:00

FYI... here is the link to the 2009-2010 AMS School Calendar:

http://www.anchoragemontessorischool.org/pdfs/SchoolCalendar20092010.pdf

Preschool/Early Childhood Teachers for the 2009-2010 year

2009-07-27T10:27:00.000-07:00

Dear Parents and Friends,

Anchorage Montessori School would like to announce our Preschool/Early Childhood Teachers for the 2009-2010 year.

First of all we bid a fond adieu to Amy (Butler) Sarafin and Shirley Miller.

Amy Sarafin has submitted her resignation due to the anticipated arrival of her new baby in a few months.

Shirley Miller has decided to submit her resignation and to retire after six years of service as both a teacher and interim executive director.

Both of these ladies will be missed on our faculty. We are grateful for their years of service to our school.

Fortunately we’ve been able to retain, promote, and hire other wonderful teachers to carry on our strong Montessori heritage.

Teresa Green will be serving as the Lead Teacher in our Full-Day Preschool program. Teresa has a BA and is working on her MA. She’s had five years of experience as a Montessori teacher at the preschool level in addition to five years of experience in public schools in Georgia. She’s driving up the Alcan with her husband in their RV and will be here for our inservice week.

Tracy Stafford has been hired as our Kindergarten/ Extended Day teacher. Tracy has a BA and is an experienced/certified Montessori teacher at the lower elementary level from Houston, Texas.

Terre Obrochta will be interning in the Daisy Room with ten children in the morning and continuing with her Elementary Spanish and Physical Education lessons in the afternoon. Tere is currently enrolled in a Masters level education program leading towards her Montessori certification at Chaminade University.

Jennifer Wagner has completed her Montessori training at Montessori Training of Southern Nevada and has been promoted to the Fireweed Room with 20 students morning and afternoon.

Our Director of Education Angela Knowlton will also be teaching in the Wild Iris Room with ten children.

Micha Thompson will return to the Prickly Rose Room with 20 children morning and afternoon.

Overall this appears to be a very capable corps of teachers for our Preschool classes. If you have any questions or requests regarding the placement of your child(ren) please contact the school.

Sincerely,

Stephen O’Brien
Executive Director

2009-07-19T11:53:00.000-07:00

Dear AMS Families,

As many of you know, we have chosen to make our AMS School Store larger to support the growing needs for AMS scholarships. To make this store a success, we need your help!

Store Inventory:

What would you like to buy at the AMS School Store? AMS shirts, hats, water bottles, etc...
Do you have an idea for holiday gifts?

Promotion:
Can you or someone you know help us design a flyer to sell the new items in the store?

Please contact me, Tonya Belanger (AMS Front Desk), if you have any ideas or would like to help us with the store.
anchorage.montessori@acsalaska.net
907-276-2240

Thank you!

2009-07-19T11:39:00.000-07:00

Dear Parents and Friends,

We're pleased to inform you that we've hired a full-day preschool teacher for our upcoming year. Teresa Green is from Reynolds, Georgia. She has a BS degree from Mercer University in Education and received her Montessori training at St. Nicholas College of London. She's currently working on her Masters Degree at Western Governors University. She's accumulated five years of Montessori experience in addition to five years of public school experience. Teresa and her husband are tentatively planning on driving their RV up to Anchorage and should be here in early August.

I also wanted to let everyone know that our new upper elementary teacher, Kourtney, did find a place to live. She arrived last week -July 16th.

We're all looking forward to welcoming them both to our faculty.

Sincerely,
Stephen O'Brien
Executive Director

New AMS Teacher Looking for Housing

2009-06-08T23:07:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

Our new upper elementary teacher Kourtney will be looking for a rental when she moves here from Massachusetts in mid-July. She’s hoping to find a two-bedroom home that’s dog friendly. If you have any leads please let Steve or Angie know at the school.

Thanks
Steve O'Brien

Parent Appreciation Breakfast

2009-05-13T14:51:00.001-07:00

Come enjoy a yummy breakfast on May 16th, from 9-10:30 a.m. prepared by our wonderful Kelly. This is our way of saying thank you for your support and generosity. It's been such a great school year and we couldn't have done it without you!!!

101 Things Parents Can Do... Things 21-30

2009-05-06T23:43:00.000-07:00

101 Things Parents Can Do to Help Children by Barbara Hacker(Montessori teacher and Ed. M)

Next 21-30

Assign regular household tasks that need to be done to maintain the household to your child as age appropriate. (perhaps setting silverware and napkins on the table, sorting, recycling, dusting, watering plants, etc.)
Attend school parent education functions.
Arrange time for both parents to attend parent-teacher conferences. Speak together in preparation for the conference and write down questions to ask.
Talk to your child without talking down. Communicate with respect and give the child the gift of language, new words and expressions.
When talking to your child, physically get on his/her level, be still, and make eye contact.
Sing! Voice quality does not matter. Sing together regularly. Build a repertoire of family favorites.
Refrain from over-structuring your child's time with formal classes and activities. Leave time to "just be," to play, explore, create.
Teach your child safety precautions. (Deal with matches, plugs, chemicals, stairs, the street, how to dial 911, etc.)
Teach your child his/her address, phone number, and parents' names.
Count! Utilize natural opportunities that arise.

More next week!

The Anchorage Montessori School Auction Is Officially Open!

2009-05-01T00:24:00.000-07:00

So what are you waiting for?...Bid Now!

Place Your Bid.
Whether you're looking for something unique for yourself, searching for a gift for a special someone, or looking to add a little adventure to your life, you're sure to find something in our auction catalog. Every bid helps support our cause.

Tell Your Friends.
The success of this online auction depends on spreading the word to as many people as possible. We need your help. Please Refer a Friend and encourage them to participate so they don't miss a single moment of the fun and excitement.

Teacher Appreciation Week

2009-04-22T22:15:00.000-07:00

Dear parents,

We are going to be celebrating "Teacher Appreciation Week" the week of April 27 - May 1. In the past this week has fallen on the shoulders of a handful of parents. In order to make this a schoolwide celebration of our teachers we have assigned 2-3 classrooms per day to take on a “treat” for the teachers. All you need to do is find your child’s class below to see how we are counting on you to help. By each family doing something small we can make a grand gesture to the people who make AMS so special.

Monday: Morning Coffee for all teachers provided by:
Liz’s Morning Toddlers (Robin Dewar)
Full Day Toddler (Lisa Gray)

Tuesday: Lunch (Potluck provided by parents)
Micha’s morning preschool (Britta Manning) side dishes
Shirley’s morning preschool (Jo Reid) salad or dessert
Angie’s morning preschool (Sarah Hanson & Jane Pavia) main course
Jennifer’s morning preschool (Holly Roth) main course

Wednesday: Flowers - buy a flower for a $1.00 at the entrance of school and let your child bring it to his/her teacher – ALL STUDENTS ARE INVOLVED ON THIS DAY
Liz’s PM Toddlers ( )

Thursday: Breakfast for teachers
Greta (Michelle Lauffer)
Amy's Full Day (Shannon Earl)

Friday: Happy Hour after school – appetizers, beer, and wine
Micha’s PM (Cathy Almand & Kristin Sholton)
Shirley’s PM (Betty Smith)
Jennifer’s PM (Simone McMahan)

Thanks,

Karin Goodman & Jessica Badgley
250-9893 644-4656

101 Things Parents Can Do... Things 11 - 20

2009-04-22T14:13:00.000-07:00

101 Things Parents Can Do to Help Children by Barbara Hacker(Montessori teacher and Ed. M)

Next 11-20

Read together daily. With younger children stick to books with realistic themes.
See that your child gets to school on time.
Allow sufficient time for your child to dress himself/herself.
Allow your child to collaborate with food preparation.
If possible, allow your child a plot of land or a flower pot in which to experience growing things.
Take walks together at the child's pace, pausing to notice things and talk about them.
Help your child be in a calm mood to experience school rather than over stimulated and carrying toys or food.
Eliminate or strictly limit TV watching and replace with activity oriented things that involve the child rather than his/her being a passive observer. When the child does watch TV, watch it with him/her and discuss what is being seen.
From the earliest age, give your child the responsibility to pick up after himself/herself. i.e. return toys to place, put dirty clothes in laundry basket, clear dishes to appropriate place, clean off sink after use, etc. This necessitates preparing the environment so children know where things go.
Hug regularly but don't impose affection. Recognize the difference.

21….more next week!

101 Things Parents Can Do to Help Children by Barbara Hacker(Montessori teacher and Ed. M)

2009-04-10T14:44:00.000-07:00

[This list does not contain the entire "101" things - it only contains 10. We will send out more items through-out the year. Enjoy!!]

Read about Montessori education and philosophy and how it applies to your child. Try Montessori Life from the American Montessori Society and the book Montessori Today by Paula Lillard.
Subscribe to the Michael Olaf Catalog or peruse the Montessori Services For Small Hands catalog. This is a wonderful introduction to Montessori for parents as well as a source for ideal toys, materials, books, etc. for the home.
Take the time to stand back and observe your child carefully and note the characteristics he/she is displaying.
Analyze your child's wardrobe and build a wardrobe aimed at freedom of movement, independence, and freedom from distraction.
Make sure your child gets enough sleep.
Make both going to bed and getting up a calm and pleasant ritual.
Teach grace and courtesy in the home. Model it. Use courtesy with your child and help your child to demonstrate it.
Refrain from physical punishment and learn ways of positive discipline.
Have a special shelf where your child's books are kept and replaced after careful use.
Make regular trips to the public library, and become familiar with the librarians and how the library works and enjoy books together. Borrow books and help your children learn the responsibility for caring and returning them.

...more next week!

Online Auction Donations

2009-04-10T14:43:00.000-07:00

Have you secured your donation for the online auction? Great!

The Online Auction team will be available next Wednesday, April 15th, to help collect auction donations before school.

Bring your donation item during the morning drop-off period and our team will happily fill out the online form for you. If you are an afternoon Montessori family, please call 240-6363 and we can make similar accommodations.

See you Wednesday!!

Sioux-z Humphrey Marshall
Online Auction Chair
shmarshall@gmail.com

2009 AMS Online Auction - Now Accepting Donations

2009-04-07T23:57:00.000-07:00

Attention AMS Families,

Our teachers are the real deal – they make our kids’ classroom experience extra special. Part of the magic is their Montessori training, and we want to ensure their continuing education is supported by AMS families.

Yes. Student tuition provides a good portion of the school’s annual funding. But the teachers themselves must travel Outside on their own dime to receive certification from the American Montessori Society. Let’s give them a hand. Let’s help carry the load. Let’s get involved in the AMS Online Auction.

Auction items collected, posted and sold online go to support continuing education opportunities for AMS teachers. This translates directly into a superior education for your child.

Your participation helps make your child’s classroom experience first rate!

Fun ideas:
Camps & Classes (Summer Camps, Art Classes, Exercise Classes)
Dining (Special Event Dinner, Wine/Dinner Parings, House Parties)
Entertainment/Theatre (Bowling, Annual Passes, Event Tickets)
Get-A-Ways (trips, hotels, B&B, cabins, air travel)
Kid Services (kid parties, child care, face painting, sponsor a parent’s night out)
Health, Beauty & Sports (hair, nails, pedicure, message, game tickets)
Gift Certificates (art gallery, jewelry, sports-specialty, auto-specialty)

It is AMS parents like you who shake down their friends, family, and business contacts to provide attractive auction items. It is AMS parents like you who talk up the auction and encourage friends, family, and business contacts to make bids.

Submit your donation directly to the online auction web site.
Click here to submit a donation

Or contact me directly via email (shmarshall@gmail.com) or phone (240-6363)

And please consider making bids of your own. The annual auction is held from noon on May 1st to midnight May 11th.

Deadline to submit donations = April 27th

All donations are tax-deductible.

Auction fund-raising goal = $15,000.

Thank You!

Sioux-z Humphrey MarshallVolunteer, Online Auction Chair
Anchorage Montessori School –
Contact: 907-276-2240, fax 907-258-3552
Sioux-z direct line 907 240 6363shmarshall@gmail.com

GIFTS Grant - Grant Inspiring Faculty To Serve

2009-04-02T15:21:00.000-07:00

From the Grandparent of an Anchorage Montessori Student,

You are a privileged person! I am too. As a grandparent of a Montessori student, I feel proud, privileged and thankful. The grand children’s futures, opportunities, creativity, self reliance, character and substance are developing soundly as they live and experience the Montessori philosophy and educational environment. You and I both know the surroundings, formative influences, security and development of the child’s self-esteem are greatly dependent on the teachers’ and assistants’ abilities, interests and heartfelt Montessori philosophy and methods.

I asked AMS to include this note to you to let you know about a special GIFTS grant (Grant Inspiring Faculty To Serve). The grant is established to provide partial funding for qualified teachers and assistants to attend accredited Montessori educational programs and workshops leading to certification for their next level of Montessori service.

Currently, there is a $2500 challenge offered in fund raising for this GIFTS grant for Anchorage Montessori School. As you and I make contributions to Anchorage Montessori School for the GIFTS grant, each dollar will be matched by the benefactor; dollar for dollar, resulting in five thousand dollars for further training and education of the teachers of our grand children.

I ask you to join me in acquiring these match dollars to give well deserved educational support to those wonderful Montessori teachers and assistants who create the environment and opportunity for our children and grand children (the future of the world) to develop their own uniqueness.

By the way, the next time you’re on the internet, just type into “Google”:
[Montessori google] or [Montessori ebay]. You may be proud and inspired.

Sincerely,

An AMS Grandpa
Actually a Grandpa of three Montessori students (one at AMS) and a parent of two Montessori Moms.

Silent Auction Closes Friday - April 3rd 5:30 PM

2009-04-02T15:17:00.000-07:00

The silent auction closes Friday, April 3rd at 5:30 p.m.
These items are on display at the AMS Front Desk

Regards,
AMS Staff

AMS 2009 Wine Social - Saturday, March 28

2009-03-27T10:40:00.000-07:00

AMS Wine Social Reminder
Saturday, March 28th at the Kincaid Chalet
Silent Auction for the amazing classroom projects that are on display in the school entrance
6-9pm
Food, Wine, and Beer
It is going to be FUN!
Questions? Contact the AMS Front Desk

Mt. Redoubt - Friday, March 27

2009-03-27T10:38:00.000-07:00

Mt. Redoubt has erupted again. There is a possibility of light ash in the Anchorage area; therefore, AMS will keep the children inside today.

Questions? Please contact Stephen O’Brien

Mt. Redoubt Erupted Last Night (March 22)

2009-03-23T13:02:00.000-07:00

Dear Parents & Staff,

Well, Mt. Redoubt finally erupted last night. Thus far the winds have kept the ash clouds on the west side of Cooke Inlet. The forecast for the next twenty-four hours is for the winds to continue to push the ash plume to the west. Naturally we will continue to monitor the situation. Should there be a sudden change in the volcano forecast and the ash clouds start heading our way we will utilize our emergency phone system and ask that parents take their children home.

As long as the volcano continues to be active we will shadow the morning decision of the Anchorage School District. If ASD is open in the morning then we will be open.

Experts at the Alaska Volcano Observatory predict that Anchorage should have at least two hours of notice before an ash cloud would reach our school, so there should be enough time for parents to pick up children and drive home. Our school has masks for each child, as well as supplies of water and food if needed. School staff would of course remain at the school until all children are picked up.

Information about ash cloud related school closures will be available on Channel 14, e-mail, our school blog available through our website, through the AMS phone line message outside of the school day, the Anchorage School District emergency recording (742-4000), and major media.

Please contact me with any questions.

Sincerely,

Stephen O’Brien

AMS Blog Update

2009-03-17T23:44:00.000-07:00

AMS has a new blog, http.amsparentblog.blogspot.com! This new site will host the latest communication from the Administrative Staff as well as keep our AMS parent community in touch with one another.

Feel free to check it out, but in the meantime we will be sending out postings to those that we have e-mail addresses for. If you are not interested in recieving the blog via e-mail you have the option of unsubscribing at any time.

A big thanks to Shannon Earl and Sioux-z Marshall for taking creating our new and improved blog.

From Everyone at AMS!!!

Elementary Parent Conference Calendar Modification

2009-03-06T12:34:00.000-08:00

Dear Elementary Parents,

There will be a modification of the elementary school schedule to accommodate Parent-Teacher Conferences. Instead of half-day school for elementary students on April 16-17, the Lower Elementary Classroom will emulate the overall school schedule and assign the full days of April 16-17 for Parent Conferences; no children will have school on those two days. A recent review of state school regulations for private schools allows for this change. This will facilitate for a more thorough dialogue between the parents and Miss Greta in discussing your child’s growth this past year.

Sincerely,

Stephen O’Brien

Message from Steve O'Brien

2009-01-31T10:00:00.000-08:00

Dear Parents,

As you probably know there is a possibility that Mt. Redoubt may erupt in the coming days. Depending on the wind conditions and strength of eruption, it is possible that schools within Anchorage may need to close. As with other school closures, Anchorage Montessori School will follow the lead of the Anchorage School District. If a full school day of school closure is necessary, we will use the automated phone system to get the word out. If a mid-day closure is needed, we will attempt to reach all parents by our automated phone system and email.

Experts at the Alaska Volcano Observatory predict that Anchorage should have at least two hours of notice before an ash cloud would reach our school, so there should be enough time for parents to pick up children and drive home. Our school has masks for each child, as well as supplies of water and food if needed. School staff would of course remain at the school until all children are picked up.

Information about ash cloud related school closures will be available on Channel 14, e-mail, our school blog available through our website, through the AMS phone line message outside of the school day, the Anchorage School District emergency recording (742-4000), and major media. Please contact me with any questions.

Sincerely,

Stephen O'Brien
Executive Director
Anchorage Montessori School
907-276-2240

No School January 19

2009-01-20T11:23:00.000-08:00

A reminder to parents that school will be closed on Monday (regardless of weather!) in honor of the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday.

Financial background? The AMS board needs you!

2009-01-08T15:34:00.000-08:00

The AMS board of directors seeks a parent volunteer with financial business experience to serve on the board. If you are interested in this position, please request a board member application from Tonya Belanger, who has taken over for Amy Carter at the front desk.

The AMS board meets once a month. Board participation takes care of all volunteer hours for the year. If you have questions about the position, please see Steve.

Pick. Click. Give.

2009-01-07T14:52:00.000-08:00

Have you heard about the PFD Charitable Contributions Program? Maybe you saw the flyer in your child's school file. Maybe you received a postcard from AMS. Maybe you read the article published last Friday in the Anchorage Daily News (complete with quotes from AMS dad, Jordan Marshall!). Well, we are tagging you digitally now, too! Please consider donating a portion of your PFD to AMS.

The PFD Charitable Contributions Program is a new, secure, and easy way to make a donation to AMS. When you go online to sign up for your dividend, you will see the option called “The Gift of Giving.” Search for us by choosing Region 4 and our name Anchorage Montessori School. Click and follow the instructions to make a contribution.

You can find more information about the program at:
www.PickClickGive.org
or you may call
1-888-785-GIFT (4438)

Thank you from everyone at AMS!!!

PA Meeting Canceled

2008-12-16T07:15:00.000-08:00

Due to busy end-of-year schedules, the Parent Association meeting scheduled for tonight has been canceled. The PA group will meet up in the New Year, on January 20 at 7:00 pm. All parents are welcome to attend this meeting, which will be held at Title Wave Books; the AMS carnival will be the main topic of conversation.

If you are interested in helping with the carnival, please contact Amanda Ungerecht (aungerecht@gmail.com), who thanks you for your volunteer efforts this year and wishes you a peaceful winter break!

No School Friday

2008-12-16T07:09:00.000-08:00

Just a reminder that there is no school on Friday! AMS students will return from winter break on Monday, January 5, 2009. Happy holidays to all.

Auction Items Anyone?

2008-12-11T21:08:00.000-08:00

The Wine Mixer Social and Online Auction fundraising team need your help to bring in items for our auction and raffle!

The Wine Mixer Social will be held February 28 and will include a small auction comprising three-to-five items of significant value, plus a raffle. The Online Auction will take place in late spring.

A key focus of these events is to raise money for the teachers training fund as well as other costs associated with maintaining a quality program. As we all know, the teachers are the heart and soul of AMS; these fundraising activities will enable them to further their Montessori education and professional growth so that they may continue to provide the best quality education for our children! Just one year of Montessori Training costs for one teacher are approximately $15,000. Expenses can include tuition, materials, airfare, and lodging.

We are asking parents who either directly contributed to, or helped solicit donations for, previous events to once again help us bring in auction and raffle items that help make these events a success. For those who have not yet had the opportunity to contribute to past events, now is your chance!

If you have items, ideas, or relationships with potential donors or event underwriters, please contact Shelly Morgan or Sioux-z Marshall!

Shelly Morgan 301-3448; smorgan@tnc.org
Chair, Wine Mixer Social

OR

Sioux-z Marshall at: 240 6363; shmarshall@gmail.com
Chair, Online Auction

Remember: All items donated before December 31, 2008, can be used as a deduction on 2008 taxes.

Thank you,

Wine Mixer and On-Line Auction and Fundraising Team

PA Meeting + Kelly’s Kitchen Project

2008-12-10T08:08:00.000-08:00

All parents are invited to attend the next Parent’s Association (PA) meeting at AMS on Tuesday, December 16. The meeting begins at 7:00 pm.

One PA project now underway is “Kelly’s Kitchen”. PA members are looking for donations to refurbish the AMS kitchen. Needed items include:

Commercial-grade dishwasher (same size/brand as we already have)
Small cutting boards
Spreaders
Knives and a sharpening block
Shelving and cupboards for storage

If you have items to donate, please contact Amanda Ungerecht (toddler teacher/development director) at the school or by email at aungerecht@gmail.com. Amanda is hoping to present the items/or information about the items to Kelly during the last week of school before winter break.

Holiday Specials at the AMS School Store

2008-12-09T09:00:00.000-08:00

Spread holiday cheer and school spirit with sales at the AMS School Store. Check out these great deals:

-- Any two t-shirts $25.00 (size + color available for order)
-- Calendars only $5.00 with each purchase
-- New products arriving soon, including adult hoodies in sizes small to 2X

All purchases help support AMS…what a worthy cause!

Parent Survival Night: Dec 12 (6-10:00 pm)

2008-12-08T07:54:00.000-08:00

Need a night out? Bring your kids to AMS Friday night and they’ll have safe, fun supervision while you attend that holiday party or finish up your shopping. The cost is $30 for the first child and $20 for each sibling. Payment is required when signing up and is considered a donation to participating staff (please leave the "To" line blank in the checks).

There are:

· 20 spots available for children ages 3-12 (enrolled students, siblings, or alumni)
· 4 spots available for children under 3 (must be enrolled at AMS)

Sign up at the front desk. Space is limited, so please hurry!

Cell Phone Recycling Fundraiser

2008-12-01T10:23:00.000-08:00

Need to recycle an old cell phone? Bring it to AMS, and you can help earn money for West High School. Cell phones can be dropped off at the front desk and will be collected by Victoria Manzer, AMS accountant, on behalf of West High's Booster Club.

Thank you for your help!

This Friday: Dinner and a Movie at AMS

2008-11-19T15:12:00.000-08:00

Join AMS friends and staff this Friday for dinner and a movie. Dinner will be served at 5:30 pm with the movie, Monsters, Inc., starting promptly at 6:00 pm. The cost is $7.

Click here for a movie synopsis and trailer.

Parent Association Meeting

2008-11-15T11:37:00.000-08:00

The next Parent Association meeting will be held Tuesday, November 18, at 7:00 pm. Topics of discussion will include results of Mom’s Night Out and future events, including Movie Night and Parent Survival Night.

All parent's are welcome to attend.

Lost Ring

2008-11-13T20:17:00.000-08:00

A woman's ring was lost in the parking lot (presumably) Wednesday after 3:30pm. If you happen to find it, please turn it in the front desk. It is an antique platinum band with small channel-set diamonds. The ring has high sentimental value to the owner.

Thank you for your help.

Mom's Night Out: a holiday shopping event

2008-11-13T12:50:00.000-08:00

AMS moms are invited to "Mom's Night Out" this Saturday, November 15, from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm in the big room. Enjoy food and wine while you shop from AMS vendors such as:

- Sensaria, Natural Body Care
- The Body Shop
- Silpada Jewelry
- Lia Sophia Jewelry
- Stained Glass Decor
- B's Purses

Many other vendors will be on hand. Bring your mom, your grandma, and your girlfriends to indulge in wine, treats, and...shopping!