If you’ve been anywhere near the MICDS campus, you know that our Lower School is in the midst of a major transformation with stunning renovations underway. Due to the construction this year, our faculty and staff have been extra creative in incorporating ways for parents and guardians to feel connected to their child at school. While the opportunity to attend on-campus events and lessons has been limited and reimagined, our Junior Kindergarten (JK) Homeroom Teachers, Bridget Wallace and Jenny Woodman, haven’t missed a beat in helping families be part of the classroom for our youngest Beasley learners. They’ve coordinated and facilitated several special parent involvement experiences that have been a huge hit for the JK students.
“We are trying several new ways to get parents involved this year,” explains Ms. Wallace. The first event this fall was called “Bring Your Parent to School.” Parents and guardians signed up for a 45-minute timeslot to join the JK class during centers and play time. Four parents were able to attend during each session, and three different sessions took place between October and November.
Next, from mid-November through mid-December, parents have been able to be guest readers for the JK students. For a half-hour session, they read one of their favorite children’s books and possibly additional books depending on the time left in the session. Much to the delight of the JK students, they loved hearing the animated story favorites of some of the Beasley parents.
In the new year, families have had the chance to sign up for “Cooking Club,” where they’ll make a simple recipe with the students. Following that, in the spring, they have been able to sign up for “JK Math Exploration,” where they’ll participate in an afternoon full of math fun with the students.
Thank you to our JK parents and guardians who have taken advantage of these special opportunities to connect with their child and their child’s very first class at MICDS. “While this year has had its challenges with construction and parking, we are so excited to offer parents a variety of ways to get involved and experience a snapshot of life in JK” details Ms. Wallace! Ms. Woodman adds, “The children have loved showing their parents around the room during playtime and eagerly listened to the parents read their favorite stories.” What special memories are being made through play, reading, cooking, and more! We can’t wait for the next round of parent involvement activities to continue in the second semester. Go Rams and Ram families!