Lower School Coffee
Pre-K -3rd grade
January 15, 2020
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Elizabeth Elizardi- LS Head
-Winter Concert
-Women in Wax, during which she encouraged the team to help the girls think about what it means to live a legacy, tying into our core values
-Map testing at the end of January. This is meant to be a “show what you know”. And is simply a snapshot for the school, not a defining placement test.
-End of second Trimester is 2/13. Reports will be posted in March.
-Conference days are 3/12-13
-Kindergarten invention convention, regions fair and 4th grade celebrations all coming up
2. Mrs. Hobson- Math Curriculum Committee
Committee members include Paul Seaton, Rebecca Harrison , Elena Bertrand, Joy Connelly, Elizardi and Amelia Hobson.
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The current math program, while fine, is looking to be replaced with a more relevant curriculum that has solid research behind it being best for girls.
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Best practices have been investigated.
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ED Reports (online research) are being used as a metric.
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more hands on math program desired
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Map testing data may be used to identify “holes” in the current program
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The goal is to have a program in place by the fall
5 programs have been identified as a potential fit, keeping an eye towards what needs to happen before Middle School.Previews of all will be explored and teachers will give their feedback. Once a new program is identified, there will be deliberate efforts to train the staff in an appropriate way to be comfortable teaching the new program.
3. Wendy Hill- Head of School
Highlighted 150th Celebration events
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NYC Alumnae event, “Creativity and Hustle” brought together alums of all ages and facilitated amazing networking and showcased the sisterhood of Agnis Irwin girls, the bond continuing to adulthood.
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Wendy will be working closely with Sally Keidel, our 14th Head of School, to ensure a smooth transition. A meet and greet is being scheduled for the school population
4. Melissa Joseph- Lower School Librarian
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-Collection and programing for the library are both being evaluated
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There has been a collaboration between the library and the maker space (Kim Walker) and programing next year will reflect this.
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Working on diversifying and enriching the collection. New purchases include diverse experiences and skin colors, some subtle, some deliberate.
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Libraries should be “windows, mirrors and sliding doors” as the girls should be able to see themselves, others and have the opportunity to step into places she cannot go.
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Biography section is being enriched
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Girls are encourages to borrow as many books as they like (this is a change from past policy)
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Parent volunteers are welcome and encouraged.
5. Bethel Mackiewicz- Director of Auxiliary Programs
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Afterschool program is being restructured and there will be a new fee structure.
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Summer camp is changing name and times. It will run for 8 weeks and will be from 8am till 3:30 with an option for extended day until 5. It will still be week by week, with no minimum sign up. Additional information is available online on AIS ON and the website.
6. Camille Seals- Assistant Head of School
7. Deb Goggins- Lower School Admissions
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Robust admission season thus far with 22 acceptances before Christmas.
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Averaging 1 tour per day
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Very high quality candidates
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The team is heavily focused on low enrollment grades
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March 1 is the commitment deadline
8. Parent feedback
There is a request for healthier snack options. This is being addressed with culinart
9. Parents’ Council
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LS Staff appreciation is on Feb 4th. Volunteer pool and donations are strong
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RaisE is on Feb 21st. Buy your tickets soon- it will sell out
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Spring Market is on April 15-16 at 672 Conestoga. 15th 4-6:30 is family friendly shopping. After 6:30, it will be an adults only, as wine will be served.
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Mayfair is May 22. Look for coming info.
