November News From Within - From Abintra Director Sherry Knott

November News From Within

As I watch our oldest students consider where they will continue their education after graduation, I am reminded of what a huge transition this is for those families. Every year, Middle School students and their parents seek to discover the "best fit" in education for high school. For some, there is a clear vision of where they want to go next. For others, consideration about how the student learns is a factor and also what their family values are around education and community create the need to make harder choices.

                These Middle School students, after years of study at Abintra, see that education is not just about math and science, but also about community, social dynamics, and teaching methods. While the priorities of the Middle School students themselves seem clearer at this point in their education, the guides and I are often consulted by parents about the classroom/study habits and are asked for help in understanding the teaching methods employed in other local schools.

                Determining the best path for educating a child can be difficult and confusing. If you have questions or concerns about the best "next step" in education for your child, regardless of his or her age, I would invite you to make an appointment with me to start this conversation. The guides and I want what is best for your child, and we are happy to share our insights with you. All you have to do is ask.

It was great to see so many parents present at the Montessori Parent Education Nights, Family and Friends Day, and especially at conferences. This Thursday night Lower Elementary guides will host a special evening for LE and parents of rising EC students.

Our Parent Association hosted the most beautiful lunches for us during conferences and we are truly grateful. Please join me and other Abintra parents at First Friday coffee on Friday, November 7th after morning car line. The informal conversations about what students are learning in the classroom, and what parents are learning about their children, are good conversations to have.

Sherry Knott