PVMS Newsletter - 1/16/2025
Upcoming Important Dates
1/20 - Martin Luther King, Jr. Day - School Closed
1/23 - PVMS What’s Next Event
2/6 - February PCO Meeting - Virtual -
2/8 - PVMS Open House
2/14 - Friendship Day Celebration
2/17 - 2/21 - February Break - School Closed
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We are excited to formally introduce our Lower Elementary Assistant, Olivia!
A former PVMS student herself, Olivia brings a special perspective to our classroom.
Her seamless transition into her role has been a joy to witness and she has quickly built wonderful connections with the students and staff.
Be sure to say “hi” to Olivia when you see her around PVMS!
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Thursday,
January 23rd
at 5:00
If your child will move up into Children’s House, Kindergarten, First or Fourth Grade next year, you may wonder, “What’s Next?”
We invite you to join an in-person discussion for your child’s upcoming level, meet the teacher and ask questions!
On Thursday, January 23, at 5:00 p.m. each level will hold an adult-only, in-person meeting to discuss what you can expect for your child’s next level at PVMS.
Even if your child isn’t moving up into the next level, we would still love to have you join us! Attend your child’s current level or learn about what is instore for your child’s future at PVMS!
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Planes of Development &
Sensitive Periods in Children
In Montessori education, understanding the Planes of Development and Sensitive Periods is essential for fostering children's growth. Dr. Maria Montessori identified four distinct developmental stages, each characterized by unique learning sensitivities. Sensitive Periods are specific times when children are particularly receptive to learning certain skills. For example, the sensitive period for language begins at birth and continues throughout the first plane of development.
First Plane (Birth to Age 6): Known as "The Absorbent Mind," children effortlessly absorb information from their environment. Sensitive periods during this stage include language acquisition, movement, order, and sensory refinement.
Second Plane (Ages 6 to 12): Children develop reasoning abilities, imagination, and a thirst for knowledge. They become more socially aware and seek moral understanding.
Third Plane (Ages 12 to 18): Adolescents experience physical and emotional changes, develop critical thinking, and seek self-identity. They are sensitive to social justice and their role in society.
Fourth Plane (Ages 18 to 24): Young adults strive for financial and personal independence, focusing on career paths and contributing to society.
Supporting Your Child's Development:
Observe and Respect: Recognize your child's current plane of development and sensitive periods. Provide appropriate activities that align with their natural interests.
Prepared Environment: Create a home environment that encourages exploration and learning, tailored to your child's developmental stage.
Encourage Independence: Allow your child to take on tasks suitable for their age, fostering confidence and self-reliance.
Open Communication: Maintain an open dialogue with educators to ensure consistency between home and school environments.
To find out more about the first two planes of development click here.
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To access your payment history for tax purposes, log into your FACTS tuition account.
Our Tax ID # 04-2325461. If you need additional information, please reach out to us.
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Thank you to all of the volunteers we have had so far!
There is still time to fulfill your family’s service hours for this school year.
Each family is expected to donate 5 hours of their time to the PVMS Community.
Wondering how you can volunteer?
Become a part of the PCO
Assist at special events - Reach out to our PCO Chair at pcochair@pvms.org
Take part in the planning for our 60th Anniversary
Ask your teacher how you can assist the classroom
and more!
If you have volunteered for events, such as hosting a trunk for the Trunk-or-Treat, assisting with our Harvest Day Celebration, joining PCO or committee meetings, or even volunteering at last Year’s Look Park field trip, please log those hours so you are credited for that time!
Thank you for working alongside our team to build a strong school community.
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Can you believe it? We are already planning for our 2024-2025 School Year, which means new friends in the PVMS Community!
Please help us spread the word about the wonderful community that is Pioneer Valley Montessori School by giving us a “Like”/”follow”/”add” on social media and adding a review on our Niche.com page!