Dear Families,
As we near the end of the school year, our focus for May is Perseverance. Perseverance is about facing challenges with determination, staying committed to our goals, and never giving up—even when the path is difficult.
This month, we’ll celebrate the small wins that come from perseverance—whether it’s mastering a new concept, completing a project, or simply giving something another try. Teachers will remind students that the effort they put in today builds their confidence and strength for tomorrow.
Perseverance is a skill that empowers students to push beyond their limits and achieve great things. Let’s work together to inspire them to keep striving, even when the going gets tough.
Thank you for encouraging this important value at home.
With Gratitude,
Ms. Pryor
Pillar of the Month - Inquirers
At our school, we encourage students to be inquirers—curious learners who actively ask questions and seek out new knowledge. Being an inquirer helps children develop critical thinking skills, confidence, and a love of learning that extends beyond the classroom. Whether they're exploring science topics, reading new stories, or investigating big ideas, students are taught to wonder, research, and reflect. We also encourage students to carry this curiosity into their homes and communities by asking thoughtful questions and exploring the world around them. When students learn to be inquirers, they become lifelong learners.
I can be an inquirer at home by:
Ask family members questions about their childhood or cultural traditions.
Choose a topic you're curious about and research it using books or safe websites.
Keep a “Wonder Journal” where you write down questions that come up during the day.
I can be an inquirer at school by:
Ask thoughtful questions during lessons and group discussions.
Explore the school library for books about topics you're interested in.
Work with classmates to investigate answers to “how” and “why” questions.
I can be an inquirer in my community by:
Visit a local museum, park, or historical site and ask a guide or adult questions.
Talk to community helpers (like librarians, firefighters, or shopkeepers) to learn about their roles.
Observe your surroundings and ask, “What’s happening here?” or “Why is this done this way?”
Learner Profile of the Month - Perseverance
Perseverance is a key pillar in our school community, and we work with students every day to help them build the resilience needed to face challenges in the world. We teach students that mistakes and setbacks are part of the learning process, and we celebrate effort just as much as achievement. Whether it’s tackling a tough math problem or revising a piece of writing, students are encouraged to keep trying, ask for help when needed, and push through frustration. Developing perseverance not only strengthens academic skills but also helps students grow into confident, capable individuals who don’t give up when things get tough.
I can be reflective at home by:
Finish a difficult chore or homework assignment even if it takes a few tries.
Practice a new skill (like tying shoes or riding a bike) every day until you get better.
Don’t give up when you feel frustrated—ask for help, take a break, and try again.
I can be reflective at school by:
Keep working through challenging assignments instead of rushing or giving up.
Use feedback from your teacher to improve your work.
Set a personal goal (like improving your reading stamina) and stick with it.
I can be reflective in my community by:
Help clean up your neighborhood even when others aren’t watching.
Participate in a local event or project even if it takes time or effort.
Stand up for what’s right, even if it feels hard or unpopular.
Current Events
Third graders worked diligently to create a school mural that highlights the importance of Earth Day. Displayed on the fourth floor, the mural serves as a powerful reminder of everyone’s role in keeping the Earth clean. This student-led initiative reflects the IB learner profile trait of Caring and encourages the school community to think like global citizens—understanding that one person’s actions can impact everyone.
Through this project, third graders demonstrated leadership, creativity, and a deep commitment to making a positive difference in their community.
Upcoming Events
This quarter, students have been preparing for the upcoming Spring Spelling Bee. They are putting their minds to the test as they review and practice to ensure they’re ready for the next school year. The Spring Spelling Bee also marks the final academic competition of the 2024–2025 school year, offering students a meaningful opportunity to showcase their hard work, focus, and determination.
A book written by Andrea Beaty Ada about an endlessly curious young girl who’s always asking “Why?” and “How?” When something stinky takes over her house, Ada sets out to discover the cause, using the scientific method and lots of questions. This book celebrates curiosity, persistence, and the power of inquiry to explore the world.
This inspiring book is written by Kobi Yamada. The book tells the story of a child who has an idea—represented as a golden egg-shaped figure—that won’t go away. At first, the child feels unsure and even tries to ignore it, but over time, they grow more confident and begin to nurture it. The idea grows and changes the world. This story is a powerful celebration of creativity, courage, and inquiry—encouraging students to honor their ideas, ask questions, and see where their curiosity can lead.
This book is written by Ashley Spires and focuses on a young girl sets out to make the most magnificent thing—but things don’t go as planned. Through trial and error, frustration, and determination, she learns the value of curiosity and problem-solving. This story models what it looks like to investigate ideas and learn from failure.