Fairmont Blog

A TO Z...21st century learning

noreply@blogger.com (Fairmont Private Schools) — Wed, 15 May 2013 14:00:00 +0000

21st century learning--it's something you hear a lot about these days, but do you really know what it means? Doesn't it have something to do with computers, the Internet and technology? With mastering the skills necessary to compete in our rapidly changing, global society? I have to admit I was a little fuzzy on the subject before reading Edutopia's A Parent's Guide to 21st Century Learning. Here's what I learned.

The Partnership for 21st Century Skills defines the key competencies that form the basis of 21st century learning or the "4Cs" as:

Collaboration: Students are able to work effectively with diverse groups and exercise flexibility in making compromises to achieve common goals.
Creativity: Students are able to generate and improve on original ideas and also work creatively with others.
Communication: Students are able to communicate effectively across multiple media and for various purposes.
Critical thinking: Students are able to analyze, evaluate, and understand complex systems and apply strategies to solve problems.

If you're more of a visual person, check out the video above from Thesys International to see the 4Cs in action! So that's what all the hubbub is about!

While the 4Cs won't replace reading, writing and arithmetic, they help push parents and educators to re-think the way we teach our children. Kids today will hold dozens of jobs in the course of their lifetimes--and who knows what these jobs will be. Chances are they haven't even been "invented" yet. What we do know is that students won't succeed unless we prepare them to be highly creative, flexible thinkers with the emotional intelligence to communicate and work well with others.

Contributed by Danyelle, Fairmont Private Schools

THE FAIRMONT FIVE get moving for physical fitness month

noreply@blogger.com (Fairmont Private Schools) — Mon, 13 May 2013 14:00:00 +0000

The President has officially declared May National Physical Fitness month. Today in America, one-third of all children and two-thirds of all adults are overweight or obese. It's a serious problem, but taking steps to get healthier is actually lots of fun. You don't have to overhaul your daily family routine to fit in a little more fitness. Here are some simple ways to get moving this May:

Walk the dog. Fido needs his exercise too, so why not round up the whole family for a brisk trot around the block.
Pull weeds. Yard work can be very constructive exercise. Make a game of pulling weeds, raking up debris, and riding in the wheelbarrow.
Play hopscotch. Get out the sidewalk chalk and invite the neighbor kids over for an afternoon of hopscotch.
Have a hula hoop contest. If you have a few hula hoops collecting dust in your garage, great! If not, a 30-minute dance party works just as well for showing off those moves.
Jump rope. Take it from Rocky Balboa, this is one effective way to get in shape. Boys love the challenge of jumping rope and girls love the sing-song schoolyard chants.

Photo from letsmove.gov

Contributed by Danyelle, Fairmont Private Schools

FRIDAY FOLDER may 10

noreply@blogger.com (Fairmont Private Schools) — Sat, 11 May 2013 00:16:00 +0000

Anaheim Hills Preschool Celebrating Mother's Day with "Mommies and Muffins!"

Highlights From This Week

Anaheim Hills "A Typical Day in Music Class" Program

On May 2, the Jr. Kindergarten and Kindergarten students impressed their parents with a musical performance called "A Typical Day in Music Class." From beginning to end, the performance was conducted just like music class. Students sang nursery rhymes and songs, danced to music by Tchaikovsky and Vivaldi, played percussive instruments, and participated in critical listening games. The parents joined their children in games like "Johnny Get Your Haircut" and "Talking Piano." The highlight of the performance was the special

finale when both the JK and Kindergarten students came together on stage to perform "Funga Alafia." This West African folk song has become a tradition for the students to sing each year because it is about friendship. During the song, the children played rhythm sticks, maracas, finger cymbals and our special African tubano drums, creating a magnificent sound of joy and unity!

We want to thank our teachers for all their help! Our music teacher, Mrs. Zavoral, directed the show with the tremendous support of Mrs. Foeldi, Mrs. Bush, Ms. Jensen, Miss Johnson, and Miss Dominguez.

Check out the pictures on FLICKR!

Bruce Hockman Carnival - May 24th

Join your fellow Fairmont Private School students for a day full of fun, prizes, and activities at the Historic Anaheim Campus! Enjoy all carnival attractions for one low price. Snacks for all carnival guests include popcorn, cotton candy, and snow cones. Pizza and drinks will be served to 2nd grade-7th grade students. Activities include inflatables, classic carnival games, hairspray, face painting and many other exciting booths. Don't miss out on the fun! The Bruce Hockman Carnival is created and staffed by 8th Grade students from the Anaheim Hills, Historic Anaheim, North Tustin, and International Academy campuses. All profits are used for 8th Grade end of the year activities. Please contact Karen Saturday (ksaturday@fairmontschools.com) or Christina Dodson (cdodson@fairmontschools.com) with any questions.

Fairmont Summer Programs: Now Enrolling! 
Hear Ye! Hear Ye! The Fairmont Summer Programs website is now LIVE and accepting applications for all the lords and ladies of the kingdom! Sign up before April 30th to receive a 10% discount on summer school and summer camp.  

Preschool-8th Grade:
http://www.fairmontsummerprograms.com/ 
High School:
http://www.fairmontsummerschool.com/

Weekly E-Newsletters 
Anaheim Hills Campus
Historic Anaheim Campus
North Tustin Campus

May Lunch Menus 
Anaheim Hills Preschool-1st Grade
Anaheim Hills 2nd-8th Grade
Historic Anaheim Campus Preschool
Historic Anaheim Campus Kindergarten
Historic Anaheim Campus 1st-8th Grade
North Tustin Preschool-Kindergarten
North Tustin 1st-8th Grade

Contributed by Alyssa, Fairmont Private Schools

THE FAIRMONT FIVE motherhood quotes

noreply@blogger.com (Fairmont Private Schools) — Fri, 10 May 2013 14:00:00 +0000

In honor of all of the loving, hard working, patient, beautiful...amazing mothers out there (many of whom are also teachers here at Fairmont), we wanted to share some of our favorite quotes about motherhood. We hope you will take advantage of Mother's Day this Sunday to honor the women in your life who have helped you become the person you are today. And if you're a mother yourself, give yourself a pat on the back for us. You are your child's first and most important teacher and have an incredibly important and difficult job. Kudos to you!

A mother is a person who seeing there are only four pieces of pie for five people, promptly announces she never did care for pie. ~Tenneva Jordan

All that I am or ever hope to be, I owe to my angel Mother. ~Abraham Lincoln

Of all the rights of women, the greatest is to be a mother. ~ Lin Yutang

The mother is the one supreme asset of national life; she is more important by far than the successful statesman, or business man, or artist, or scientist. ~ Theodore Roosevelt

There was never a great man who had not a great mother, it is hardly an exaggeration. ~Olive Schreiner

Image from webclipart.about.com

Contributed by Darcy, Fairmont Private Schools

SHORT STORY this is the place

noreply@blogger.com (Fairmont Private Schools) — Wed, 08 May 2013 14:00:00 +0000

As we wrap up the school year, we remember the moments that made it so special--the first day of school, winning the League Championship, making a new friend. We sign yearbooks and prepare for graduation ceremonies, and we enjoy our last few weeks with teachers and friends before saying so long for summer.

We invite you to celebrate the past year by watching the video above, a compilation of thoughts and memories from our students and parents!

Contributed by Alyssa, Fairmont Private Schools

SCHOOL NEWS junior high students win math awards

noreply@blogger.com (Fairmont Private Schools) — Mon, 06 May 2013 14:00:00 +0000

On April 13, 2013, eight junior high students from Fairmont’s Historic Anaheim campus participated in the third annual Sage Hill Mathematics Invitational held at Sage Hill School in Newport Beach, CA. Fairmont students took Second Place Overall in both the seventh and eighth grade levels and won a number of team and individual awards.

The Math Invitational is a one-day team-based competition for local middle schools with the goal of promoting and celebrating mathematics by providing a fun environment for middle school students to collaborate and share their interests. The Historic Anaheim Campus’ seventh grade team, coached by Michelle Paraiso, included Michael C., Adnan I., Michael K. and Jocelyn L. The 8th grade team included Ejay C., Han C., Tara F. and Ronik K.

“We have a wonderful group of students who work very hard throughout the year on building their skill and mastery in math. I’m very proud of their success,” said Fairmont Historic Anaheim Campus teacher and team coach Michelle Paraiso.

Congratulations to the Historic Anaheim Campus, Ms. Paraiso, and all of the students who participated in the Sage Hill Mathematics Invitational.

Contributed by Danyelle, Fairmont Private Schools

ARTS & CRAFTS clever teacher appreciation card

noreply@blogger.com (Fairmont Private Schools) — Wed, 01 May 2013 14:00:00 +0000

May is Teacher's Appreciation Month at Fairmont and schools all across the country. There are so many wonderful ideas for recognizing the teachers who do such an amazing job of preparing the next generation for success. There's no shortage of clever crafts on Fairmont's Pinterest boards but we especially loved the witty sentiment behind these cards, created by Chickabug and available as a free download on our Elementary board.

Image from Chickabug.com
Contributed by Danyelle, Fairmont Private Schools

SCHOOL NEWS eighth grader named shining student

noreply@blogger.com (Fairmont Private Schools) — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 14:00:00 +0000

Congratulations to Fairmont Anaheim Hills campus 8th grader Jack Renton who made OC Register Family magazine's coveted Shining Students of 2013 list. Jack is an Honor Roll regular, an awesome athlete, and a stand-out student leader. A two-time golden gavel winner in the Orange County Middle School Debate League and an award-winning Model UN participant, Jack is destined for greatness. His teachers and friends claim he's Most Likely to Become President! Check out his write-up in the April issue of OC Family.

Way to represent, Jack!

Contributed by Danyelle, Fairmont Private Schools

FRIDAY FOLDER april 26

noreply@blogger.com (Fairmont Private Schools) — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 23:48:00 +0000

Anaheim Hills preschoolers met local police and police K-9 for Week of the Young Child

Highlights From This Week

Historic Anaheim Junior High Students Have Strong Showing At Sage Hill Math Invitational
On April 13, 2013, eight  junior high students from the Historic Anaheim campus participated in the Third  Annual Sage Hill Mathematics Invitational. The 7th grade team consisted of  Michael C., Adnan I., Michael K. and Jocelyn L., while the 8th grade team  consisted of Ejay C., Han C., Tara F. and Ronik K. It is a one-day team-based  competition for local middle schools. Its goal is to promote and celebrate  mathematics by providing a fun environment for middle school students to  collaborate and share their interests.

Competitive events  include:
Grade 7
-Mental  Math
1st  place - Michael C.
2nd place - Michael K.
Overall 1st place -  Fairmont
-Algebra and Logic
2nd place  - Fairmont
-Data  Analysis and  Probability
-Measurement
-Geometry and Reasoning
-Engineering Challenge
1st  place - Fairmont
7th Grade Overall Team Winner -  2nd place - Fairmont

Grade 8
-Mental  Math
2nd place - Ejay C.
Overall 2nd place - Fairmont
-Algebra and  Logic
-Measurement
-Geometry  and Reasoning -1st place - Fairmont
-Engineering Challenge
8th  Grade Overall Team Winner - 2nd place - Fairmont

Anaheim Hills Preschoolers Love "Week Of The Young Child"!
The Week of the Young Child started off with a high-energy "Kids are Super" show by the Nick Anderson Music Company. All the preschoolers were dancing and jiving and giggling with joy as they pretended to be butterflies, trains, frogs and fish! It was so heartwarming to see them thrilled to jump up and down with sheer joy.
The preschoolers celebrated Earth Day by planting a dwarf orange trees, carrots, daisies, broccoli, sunflowers, cucumbers, pumpkins, and watermelon seeds in the preschool garden. Our littlest gardeners really were showing us their 'green thumbs' with their shovel and careful planting skills!

Community Helpers Day was exciting as our preschoolers were visited by the Anaheim Police Department and the Anaheim Fire Department. We are so thankful to our wonderful police and fire departments for their time and kindness! Our preschoolers truly were in awe of the big trucks and sirens! A very special treat was a visit from the Anaheim Police K-9 unit, and our preschoolers loved seeing "Jager" and learning about his training.
On Thursday all our littlest students loved playing with bubbles and sidewalk chalk! We all loved having our faces painted!!

International Day was a very special way to finish this very special Week of the Young Child! Our students wore clothing from their native country or just a favorite costume and had a parade! Next on the agenda for the day was a language lesson, as a story was read to students in different languages. And of course the perfect way to end a special day and a special week...ice cream!!

North Tustin Student Led Conferences
The North Tustin Campus Student Led Conferences were very successful. Kindergarten - 8th grade students presented a profolio to their parents and discussed their academic achievements and experiences. The first grade team has received many positive responses from both parents and students. Students worked with their teachers, Mrs. Fraser and Mrs. Chewning, to choose their favorite and best examples of academic subjects to share with their parents. These extraordinary works were then separated into 5 academic categories and organized in portfolios. Both teachers held coaching sessions with their students to prepare them for their presentation to parents. Each student completed a summary sheet with academic goals and objectives for the current trimester, and a Behavior Report Card with their personal ratings for categories like, "Do you finish your work in a timely manner?" and "Is your desk clean and neat?" These prompts helped children explain portfolio choices to their parents and guided them through the conference process. All of the students took great pride in their presentations, and parents were pleasantly surprised at how well they handled themselves during the conferences. Thanks to everyone who attended the conferences and to our wonderful students who were "Shining Stars" in their roles!

Fairmont Summer Programs: Now Enrolling! 
Hear Ye! Hear Ye! The Fairmont Summer Programs website is now LIVE and accepting applications for all the lords and ladies of the kingdom! Sign up before April 30th to receive a 10% discount on summer school and summer camp.  

Preschool-8th Grade:
http://www.fairmontsummerprograms.com/ 
High School:
http://www.fairmontsummerschool.com/

Weekly E-Newsletters 
Anaheim Hills Campus
Historic Anaheim Campus
North Tustin Campus

April Lunch Menus 
Anaheim Hills Preschool-1st Grade
Anaheim Hills 2nd-8th Grade
Historic Anaheim Campus Preschool
Historic Anaheim Campus Kindergarten
Historic Anaheim Campus 1st-8th Grade
North Tustin Preschool-Kindergarten
North Tustin 1st-8th Grade

Contributed by Alyssa, Fairmont Private Schools

THE FAIRMONT FIVE benefits of summer school

noreply@blogger.com (Fairmont Private Schools) — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 14:00:00 +0000

The last day of school--it's something kids look forward to all school year long (even if they secretly love to learn). Students, teachers and parents yearn for the slightly less structured days of summer. There are no tests to study for, no special projects to complete at the last minute, and no homework for the dog to eat! The tricky thing about summer is that as soon as the last school bell rings, kids brains begin to suffer from what is known as "summer learning loss".

Did you know that students lose about two months of grade level equivalency in mathematical computation skills over the summer months? When you compare standardized test scores for tests taken at the end of the school year and the same test taken at the end of summer--there's a significant dip in student achievement. Summer brain drain is a fact, but it's not inevitable.

Studies also show that quality summer programs keep the learning going all year long and can actually boost a child's academic achievement and confidence by the start of the new school year. Here are five good reasons to consider summer school for your child:

Extra practice and review of key concepts in reading, writing and math helps reinforce academic skills and fill in any gaps in your child's education over the past year.
The smaller class sizes often available in summer school classes allow for more one-on-one time between teachers and students. Children may feel more confident speaking up and asking for help in areas where they just don't "get it".
Kid's brains actually don't need "downtime" from learning. The steady stimulation that summer school provides is much more beneficial to your child's brain development than, say, hours of unstructured time watching TV or playing video games.
The slower more relaxed pace of summer school allows kids to "play" at learning, discovering new areas of interest and ways of solving problems.
Summer school helps children build confidence in their academic abilities and a little confidence can go a long way to helping your child succeed in the coming school year.

Find out more about Fairmont's summer programs including day camp, summer school and enrichment programs by visiting www.fairmontsummerprograms.com. Save 10% on summer school and summer camp if you enroll by April 30th!

Contributed by Danyelle, Fairmont Private Schools

SNACK TIME pass the pears please!

noreply@blogger.com (Fairmont Private Schools) — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 14:00:00 +0000

On April 10 and 12, the preK – K children at Anaheim Hills and Historic Anaheim Preschool students enjoyed an interactive presentation about PEARS. The children learned that pears come in a variety of colors, shapes and sizes, even flavors.

Do you know your pear varieties?

Can you guess? Hint: Some varieties come in more than one color.

Which varieties of pears are available in the color Red? = a Red Anjou, Red Bartlett and Starkrimson pear

What about Brown? = a Bosc pear

Yellow? A Bartlett pear turns from green to yellow when fully ripe.

Green? The Comice or Green Anjou pear is sweet and stays green even when fully ripe!

Red and Green and tiny? The Seckel are bite-size, crunchy and super sweet. They are green with a dark red blush. Perfect for a child’s lunchbox or after school treat.

Beige and round and crunchy? = an Asian or “Apple” Pear. These pears are unusual because of their unique shape - not your typically bottom heavy pear shape or flavor. Some students thought this pear looked like a softball because it was so large and round.

Healthy habits are easier to practice when learned early. The children were good sports and enthusiastically sampled a fresh pear, a canned pear and a dried pear. Everyone had smiles and some students asked for seconds.

FUN FACTS

FLOAT OR SINK?

Do pears float or sink when placed in water? The children had fun guessing if the same size apple and pear would float or sink in a large container of water. Guess what? Apples float! Pears don’t! Apples float because they contain more air. Pears sink because they are more dense than apples and contain less air. Pears can’t “breathe” or exchange oxygen and it’s also the reason why apples stay fresher longer.

CHECK THE NECK

Pears are one of the few fruits that don’t ripen on the tree. Check the “neck” of the pear for ripeness. If it gives under pressure, the pear is ready to be eaten. If it’s still hard, wait a couple more days. For best results, ripen at room temperature for 4 to seven days. Some pears, like the Anjou can take up to 10 days to fully ripen. A ripe pear is a sweet pear and is worth the wait.

For more information, games and puzzles about pears check out these websites:

RESOURCES:

http://www.usapears.com/Kids%20And%20Classroom.aspx

http://www.pbhfoundation.org/pub_sec/edu/kids_act/

http://pearworld.kidzsmart.com/

Contributed by Leslie K. Kay-Getzinger, MS, RD, Regional Dietitian for Nutrition Management Services

FRIDAY FOLDER april 19

noreply@blogger.com (Fairmont Private Schools) — Sat, 20 Apr 2013 19:56:00 +0000

Our Anaheim Hills families had fun in the sun at our Celebrate 2013 Picnic!

Highlights From This Week

Cougar Chorus Season Ends Strong!

Our Anaheim Hills after school singing group called Cougar Chorus performed at their Spring Concert a few weeks ago. There are 55 students in the group from 3rd, 4th and 5th grade. They meet with Mrs. Zavoral every Friday after school to practice developing their singing voices and to learn how to sing in harmony. At the concert, students performed a variety of pieces including their traditional chorus cheer, an African folk piece, a classical piece by Mozart sung acapella, and a jazz piece called "Accentuate the Positive."

During Spring Break, the chorus took time to visit the senior citizens at the Brea Senior Living Center. Chorus members sang their concert pieces and gave cards away to the seniors. Many of the seniors clapped to the beat and joined in song!

Cougar Chorus has done more than just cheer up folks during their spring break. Earlier this year, they performed at the FPA Santa Train, the Book Fair during Open House and the Girl Scout National Day Event. Now the chorus season is over, and students will celebrate their hard work by going on a special field trip to the Merlin Magic & Comedy Show. Congratulations to the chorus students and to Mrs. Zavoral on a very successful year!

Congratulations North Tustin Science Fair Winners

Congratulations to Matthew C., Meghana K., and Cameron O. After competing at the North Tustin's own science fair, they were amongst 15 students selected to compete at the Orange County Science and Engineering Fair (OCSEF). There the three North Tustin students qualified to compete in the California State Science Fair (CSSF) on Tuesday, April 16th, 2013. On that day, students took their science fair projects to the Discovery Science Center in Los Angeles to compete and test their projects against California's top science students. Over 1000 incredible projects were on display, and while the scores were recorded in the afternoon the students headed to lunch and then patiently await the awards ceremony later that afternoon.

Even with so many amazing projects, we are excited to say that each North Tustin student attending the CSSF was recognized by the judges. Matthew C. was awarded an honorable mention in the Material's Science category, Meghana K. was awarded an honorable mention in the Cognitive Science category, and Cameron O. was awarded second place in his category, Material's Science. This was a wonderful affirmation of these 3 students excellence in science. We are incredibly proud of their efforts.

Historic Anaheim 7th Grader Makes a "Splash"

It started one day in February. Michelle joined 200 youth divers at the auditions for an upcoming reality show called Splash. The television show has celebrities competing in a diving competition. Each week the lowest scoring competitor is eliminated from the competition. For the audition, Michelle performed 5 dives of her choice and camera test interviews. Later, Michelle found out that she got the part on the show. She trained with her celebrity partner for two weeks (the show forbids Michelle from revealing which celebrity she is partnered with). Michelle has been diving for four years. She practices 3-4 hours a day, 6 days a week at both Fullerton College and the Rose Bowl Aquatics center. Recently, Michelle competed in the National Championships in San Antonio, Texas. Michelle dove well enough to win 5th place! You can see Michelle and her mystery celebrity partner diving on Splash which will air on Tuesday, April 23 on ABC at 8:00 P.M. Make sure you tune in.

Fairmont Summer Programs: Now Enrolling! 
Hear Ye! Hear Ye! The Fairmont Summer Programs website is now LIVE and accepting applications for all the lords and ladies of the kingdom! Sign up before April 30th to receive a 10% discount on summer school and summer camp.  

Preschool-8th Grade:
http://www.fairmontsummerprograms.com/ 
High School:
http://www.fairmontsummerschool.com/

Weekly E-Newsletters 
Anaheim Hills Campus
Historic Anaheim Campus
North Tustin Campus

April Lunch Menus 
Anaheim Hills Preschool-1st Grade
Anaheim Hills 2nd-8th Grade
Historic Anaheim Campus Preschool
Historic Anaheim Campus Kindergarten
Historic Anaheim Campus 1st-8th Grade
North Tustin Preschool-Kindergarten
North Tustin 1st-8th Grade

Contributed by Alyssa, Fairmont Private Schools

SHORT STORY fairmont celebrates week of the young child

noreply@blogger.com (Fairmont Private Schools) — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 14:00:00 +0000

Roshan P. poses with one of the marionettes from Franklin Haynes' Marionette show during Week of the Young Child at the Historic Anaheim Campus Preschool--just one of dozens of events, crafts and special activities that students enjoyed the week of April 15th.

Contributed by Danyelle, Fairmont Private Schools

ARTS & CRAFTS plant pals

noreply@blogger.com (Fairmont Private Schools) — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 14:00:00 +0000

Monday is Earth Day! I love that we have a holiday dedicated to our beautiful planet. I try to instill a love of nature into my kids daily, but there's nothing wrong with a little reminder. Here is a cute craft from spoonful.com that will last longer than just a day, will beautify your home, and will teach your kids about how nature works! You'll only need a few things to get started. So go get planting!

Image from Spoonful

Contributed by Darcy, Fairmont Private Schools

FRIDAY FOLDER april 12

noreply@blogger.com (Fairmont Private Schools) — Fri, 12 Apr 2013 23:30:00 +0000

Congratulations to 8th Grader, Austin K. He won the Physics Division at the Orange County Science Fair and will be representing Fairmont at the California Science Fair next week!

Highlights From This Week

Student Led Conferences

Fairmont Private Schools and other schools around the country are leading the charge on a new style of conferences that are student-led. We introduced Student-Led Conferences this month with wonderful, positive comments from parents, students, and teachers. We encourage you to participate in your child's conference if you have not done so already.

Student Led Conferences help put students on "center stage" and take more responsibility for their academic achievement, self-discipline, and physical well-being. Student Led Conferences reflect the belief that students should be actively involved in their learning and assume responsibility for the learning process. We look forward to seeing you at the Student Led Conferences to celebrate your child's growth and learning!

Read more about Student Led Conferences in this article by Education World.

Week of the Young Child

The Historic Anaheim Preschool will celebrate Week of the Young Child April 12th - April 19th. Week of the Young Child is a time to recognize and promote early learning whether at home, school, or in the community. The following are different activities that we will promote each day of next week:

Monday, April 15th: Music Appreciation Day

Choral and Instrumental students from the Prep will give a special performance just for our students.

Tuesday, April 16th: Bounce Day

The bounce house is coming! Each class will have a chance to bounce in the Mickey Mouse bounce house.

Wednesday, April 17th: Magic Day

Franklin Haynes Marionettes presents Marionette Magic! Students will be awed by a variety of marionettes featured in this show.

Thursday, April 18th: Pajama Day

Come dressed in pajamas. Students will enjoy special books and bagels snack time with ASB students from the Prep.

Friday, April 19th: Multi-Cultural Day

Children can wear their cultural attire and participate in a school-wide Fashion Show. They will enjoy classroom celebrations with an International Pot-Luck snack.

In celebration of Week of the Young Child, theHistoric Anaheim Main Campus kindergarten students will participate in the following fun-filled activities:

Tuesday, April 16th: Once Upon a Story

Our upper grade princesses (Miss Patterson, Miss Wu, & Mrs. Gilliland) will come share their favorite book with our kindergarten students.

Wednesday, April 17th: Oh My! It is Wacky Wednesday!

Wear your Wackiest Hair! Mrs. Cameron will join the kindergarten class to share Dr. Seuss'Wacky Wednesday.

Thursday, April 18th: Creative Play Day!

Bubbles, sidewalk chalk, ribbon wands, and more!

Kindergarten students will have afternoon play with all sorts of outdoor toys and will cap it off with a tasty popsicle!

Fairmont Summer Programs: Now Enrolling! 
Hear Ye! Hear Ye! The Fairmont Summer Programs website is now LIVE and accepting applications for all the lords and ladies of the kingdom! Sign up before April 30th to receive a 10% discount on summer school and summer camp.  

Preschool-8th Grade:
http://www.fairmontsummerprograms.com/ 
High School:
http://www.fairmontsummerschool.com/

Weekly E-Newsletters 
Anaheim Hills Campus
Historic Anaheim Campus
North Tustin Campus

April Lunch Menus 
Anaheim Hills Preschool-1st Grade
Anaheim Hills 2nd-8th Grade
Historic Anaheim Campus Preschool
Historic Anaheim Campus Kindergarten
Historic Anaheim Campus 1st-8th Grade
North Tustin Preschool-Kindergarten
North Tustin 1st-8th Grade

Contributed by Alyssa, Fairmont Private Schools

HOW TO age-appropriate chores for kids

noreply@blogger.com (Fairmont Private Schools) — Wed, 10 Apr 2013 14:00:00 +0000

With four kids under the age of 9, I have a lot of work to do at home. Constantly.

It is important to me that my children know how to take care of themselves and their home. And I've learned that even my little ones can be very helpful with chores. The younger they are, the more excited and willing they are to help. I love this list of age appropriate chores from Raising Arrows. Here are a few examples for the various age breaks:

9-12 Months

Help put away toys

1-2 Years Old

Use proper "manners" with please, thank you, excuse me, sorry
Help clean up their own messes

2-3 Years Old

Help sort laundry
Help bring in groceries at home

3-4 Years Old

Learn to make their bed
Begin establishing regular chores like dusting the living room blinds

4-5 Years Old

Learn how to set the table
Learn how to water plants

5-6 Years Old

Begin to help younger siblings with tasks
Learn to wash dishes

6-7 Years Old

Begin learning how to prepare simple meals and snacks
Begin learning how to do the laundry from start to finish

8-10 Years Old

Complete responsibility for their domain (bedroom, specific chores, etc)
Unsupervised yard work

Image from Laptop Clipart

Contributed by Darcy, Fairmont Private Schools

THE FAIRMONT FIVE teachers share secrets for good kid behavior

noreply@blogger.com (Fairmont Private Schools) — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 14:00:00 +0000

Here at Fairmont, we believe our teachers are superheroes! And when it comes to super powers, our early childhood educators have some of the coolest skills. Our ECE teachers can predict meltdowns and stop temper tantrums with a single bound. They seem to bring out the best in children without yelling or resorting to bad behavior themselves. Just how do they do it? Here are a few of their secrets for handling some of parents’ toughest challenges:

Solving separation anxiety--Begin each day with a positive outlook. Take time to talk about the day before you leave for school. Try asking your child simple questions about their daily routine. “When you are at recess what is your favorite thing to do?” “I noticed your classroom has some great toys. What will you play with today?” Children develop confidence and security by following a routine. When it is time to leave your child, always say good bye. Give them a hug and send them on their way. Do not linger or keep coming back--this sends the message that something is wrong. Don’t panic if your child starts to cry. Have confidence in your child's teacher. Once a youngster has mastered a daily routine they will be confident and content at school.
Positive parenting--I have seen time and time again that children respond better to praise than punishment. When parents and teachers keep things positive, they see better results. Children want to feel that pat on the back even more than a reward. Keep everything positive!
Using age to your advantage--"Age Advantage" is using a child's age as a motivation. For example, "When you are four you will be able to do X.” “When you are five you can do X." Also, it can work the other way around, for example: "Now that you are four you no longer need X,” or "Five year-olds don't do X."
Mood matters--We have learned through teaching, as well as through parenting, that children will feed off your mood. If you are calm, they are more apt to be calm as well.
You're in charge--Being a parent is wonderful, but it comes with responsibility. Parents are responsible for making decisions for their children. Children need guidance on what is in their best interest. Children are not capable of making those choices. Parents need to teach that there are consequences for good and bad behavior. Acknowledge when a child makes the right choice and have appropriate consequences when poor choices are consistently made. One hundred percent consistency is imperative and possible. This is where “mean what you say and say what you mean” comes into effect.

To see Fairmont's ECE teachers in action, check out this new video.

Image from photobucket

Contributed by Danyelle, Fairmont Private Schools

BOOK REPORT fairy tales with a twist

noreply@blogger.com (Fairmont Private Schools) — Wed, 03 Apr 2013 14:00:00 +0000

Since launching Fairmont's summer program, we've all had fairy tales on the brain. We love those "happily ever after" stories complete with princesses, dragons, and magical godmothers. But fairy tales are even more fun when they're told with a twist, like these five original takes on familiar tales.

Kate and the Beanstalk
by Mary Pope Osborne

Bubba the Cowboy Prince
by Helen Ketteman

Cinder Edna
by Ellen Jackson

The True Story of the Three Little Pigs
by Jon Scieszka

Dusty Locks and the Three Little Bears
by Susan Lowell

Image from barnesandnoble
Contributed by Danyelle, Fairmont Private Schools

SHORT STORY fairmont prep tec launch gala

noreply@blogger.com (Fairmont Private Schools) — Mon, 01 Apr 2013 14:00:00 +0000

On Thursday, March 28 Fairmont Preparatory Academy kicked off its Prep TEC (Technology-Enhanced Curriculum) Program with a special gala event. The evening began with a presentation by Dr. Matt Brandstetter about the components of the program and the importance of technology in education.

Next year, Fairmont Prep will have a 1:1 student iPad program and iPads will be incorporated into the curriculum in every subject. At the Gala, families were able to see the iPads in action by visiting classroom demonstrations around the gym.

We were so pleased to have so many Fairmont families in attendance to see the technology integration in action. Thank you to everyone who joined!

Contributed by Alyssa, Fairmont Private Schools

ARTS & CRAFTS flower sun catchers

noreply@blogger.com (Fairmont Private Schools) — Wed, 27 Mar 2013 14:00:00 +0000

It's officially spring which means flowers are blooming everywhere. Let's get some of those blooms inside too. It's time to make your own Flower Sun Catchers. This craft is easy to do with your child and lets you recycle too! Only a few arts and crafts staples are needed (empty plastic water bottle, colorful tissue paper, glue, a paint brush, and string or yarn). Just follow this easy tutorial from The Chocolate Muffin Tree blog. Your child will love displaying his or her work on your windows!

Image from The Chocolate Muffin Tree

Contributed by Darcy, Fairmont Private Schools

THE FAIRMONT FIVE fairy tale summer

noreply@blogger.com (Fairmont Private Schools) — Mon, 25 Mar 2013 14:00:00 +0000

This year, Fairmont's summer program has taken its inspiration from fairy tales. From Jack in the Beanstalk to the Princess and the Pea, we let our imaginations take us far, far away on a journey to a world compete with knights-in-shining-armor, fire-breathing dragons and, of course, princesses.

The story of how Fairmont Private Schools came into being back in 1953 is a kind of fairy tale. There was a humble schoolteacher with a big dream. He worked long and hard and found lots of other great teachers along the way who shared his dream. Sixty years later and Fairmont Private Schools is now educating bright, imaginative, courageous kids in Southern California and all over the world. It's a happily-ever-after story that continues this summer at Fairmont Private Schools.

Whether you enroll in our incredible summer program or create your own DIY summer camp at home, we think you'll love these five fairy tale activities, for more inspiration head to Fairmont's Once Upon a Time Pinterest board.

Image from weheartit
Contributed by Danyelle, Fairmont Private Schools

FRIDAY FOLDER march 22

noreply@blogger.com (Fairmont Private Schools) — Sat, 23 Mar 2013 01:08:00 +0000

Junior Kindergarten celebrating St. Patrick's Day!

Highlights From This Week
Prep TEC Program Launch Gala
Please join us at Fairmont Preparatory Academy on Thursday, March 28 from 6-8pm for a gala event to launch our new Prep TEC Program. We invite you to join us to hear all about our technology program, including the two years of research and professional development behind it. See the program in action by visiting our department-specific "classroom experiences." You'll be amazed at the ways our 1:1 iPad program will enhance student learning in every class, from calculus to P.E. This event is open to all Fairmont families, preschool-12th grade. 
Click Here to RSVP

Fairmont Summer Programs: Now Enrolling! 
Hear Ye! Hear Ye! The Fairmont Summer Programs website is now LIVE and accepting applications for all the lords and ladies of the kingdom! Sign up before April 30th to receive a 10% discount on summer school and summer camp.  

Preschool-8th Grade:
http://www.fairmontsummerprograms.com/ 
High School:
http://www.fairmontsummerschool.com/

Weekly E-Newsletters 
Anaheim Hills Campus
Historic Anaheim Campus
North Tustin Campus

March Lunch Menus 
Anaheim Hills Preschool-1st Grade
Anaheim Hills 2nd-8th Grade
Historic Anaheim Campus Preschool
Historic Anaheim Campus Kindergarten
Historic Anaheim Campus 1st-8th Grade
North Tustin Preschool-Kindergarten
North Tustin 1st-8th Grade

Contributed by Alyssa, Fairmont Private Schools

A TO Z...gardening with kids

noreply@blogger.com (Fairmont Private Schools) — Wed, 20 Mar 2013 14:00:00 +0000

There are few things I enjoy more than gardening with my three children. I was delighted when Fairmont added gardening to the early childhood curriculum. If you've ever spent a few minutes gardening with kids, you'll soon discover that it's an incredible activity for supporting any number of learning objectives (from science and math to literature and creative writing) as well as a great way to teach children to work together.

In my experience, children who may be shy and reluctant to speak out in class "blossom" in the garden. Kids love being out in the fresh air and sunshine. They enjoy the physical work that goes along with watering, weeding, planting and cultivating a garden. And it's so rewarding for them to experience the progression of the garden...seed, sprout, plant, flower, fruit.

I grew up in and around a garden, but you don't have to have gardening genes to be successful at creating a family-friendly garden. It's surprisingly simple, inexpensive and you don't need lots of space. In fact, a container garden is a great way to get started if you've never planted a garden before.

Here are some of my favorite tips and resources for gardening with kids--happy planting!

Start small--It's easy to get carried away when you visit the garden center and see all of the amazing flowers, veggies, trees, shrubs and seeds for sale. Temper your enthusiasm to do too much, especially if you want to get your kids involved.
Take conditions into consideration--Plants are living things and they need the right conditions (light, water, soil) to thrive. I'd suggest purchasing a Sunset Western Garden Guide to serve as your basic guide for selecting and caring for plants that work given your garden's conditions. Veggies need lots of sun and water, but there are other plants that love shade and many that are water-wise after a year of becoming established in the soil.
Buy kid-sized tools--Children will enjoy working in the garden more when they have the right tools, plus they're super cute! I like the picks from Life on the Balcony.
Use seeds and seedlings--Many plants are fun and easy for kids to start as seeds. I like working with larger seeds when kids are involved (sunflower, squash, pumpkin, melons, beans, peas and nasturtium) since they are easier for children to hold. Radish and carrot seeds are small, but kids can sprinkle them directly into garden soil. Tomato and pepper plants may be easier to purchase and plant as seedlings since their seeds are teeny tiny. For help picking plants that play nice together, refer to this handy companion planting chart.
Get creative with containers--Container gardening is often less intimidating for new gardeners. Containers require less space and you don't need a lot of prep before you can get started planting. There are so many clever container garden ideas. One of my favorites is a vertical garden you create by recycling a shipping pallet.
Have fun with critters--You may find your garden attracts ladybugs, butterflies, birds, worms and more. Make learning about the creatures in your garden part of the fun. You can encourage beneficial insects by planting plants that attract them.
Eat what you grow--It's a proven fact that kids are more likely to eat their veggies when they've been involved in growing them. Watch the Edible Schoolyard segment from Growing a Greener World for inspiration--these school kids are really getting a hands-on lesson on where their food comes from.
Start a garden reading list--There are some wonderful children's books about seasons, seeds, gardening, etc. that will help educate and excite your children about their garden. I love The Gardener by Sarah Stewart and The Curious Garden by Peter Brown.

Image from Hearthsong
Contributed by Danyelle, Fairmont Private Schools

SNACK TIME eat right, your way, every day

noreply@blogger.com (Fairmont Private Schools) — Mon, 18 Mar 2013 14:00:00 +0000

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics has designated March as the time to focus on the importance of making informed food choices and developing good eating and physical activity habits. This year's theme, "Eat Right, Your Way, Every Day”, is intended to encourage personalized healthy eating styles.

What does “eating right” mean to you?

Does it mean eating breakfast even though you’re in a hurry? Does it mean eating a healthy school lunch, or maybe eating a few more vegetables at dinnertime? Or less dessert?

Think about what eating right means to you and identify at least one way you can improve on your eating habits.

Eat Right, Your Way.

Eating “your way” might mean including foods particularly familiar to you such as the foods you grew up with or that are passed along through family tradition. Not everyone might enjoy tofu or sushi or turkey! We are unique individuals with different tastes and varied likes and dislikes.

Lifestyle choices, cultural and ethnic traditions impact our food choices. Eating your way includes embracing foods that are unique to you. Think about a food that is unique to you or your family. Accept and embrace that uniqueness!

Eat right, Your Way, Every Day.

How do you eat right, your way, "every day"?

First, realize that it’s not one food or one meal that makes or breaks a balanced diet. Its about learning how to eat a variety of foods including the ones you love, in moderation, to create an overall healthful eating plan tailored to your lifestyle, traditions, and health needs. Being aware of what you eat is the first step towards making a change.

Celebrate National Nutrition Month with your personal choice and make it a great plate.

For more information about National Nutrition Month and ideas, check the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics website at http://www.eatright.org/nnm/

Contributed by Leslie K. Kay-Getzinger, MS, RD, Regional Dietitian for Nutrition Management Services

FRIDAY FOLDER march 15

noreply@blogger.com (Fairmont Private Schools) — Fri, 15 Mar 2013 20:04:00 +0000

Our Locks of Love participants...before!

Our Locks of Love participants...after! 

Highlights From This Week

Anaheim Hills Students Donate Hair to Locks of Love

On Monday, March 11, ten volunteer students and five parents and teachers from the Anaheim Hills Campus went on stage in front of their classmates while a Cartel Salon cosmetologist cut at least 10 inches of their hair to donate to the Locks of Love foundation. Students received an educational lesson about why the wigs are made, who could donate hair, the donation requirements, watched a clip of the television show "How it's Made" regarding wig-making, and were able to ask questions about the process to the team of stylists. Before the cutting began, each participant had a chance to tell the school why they made the choice to cut their hair.

"My daughter and I are doing this for our close friend, who is currently fighting breast cancer." says Ashley Westlund, the school's secretary whose daughter participated in the event as well. The responses from each participant didn't leave a dry eye in the house. At the end of the presentation, an assembly line of students had their hair cut off one by one as the crowd cheered. Each girl waved their pony tails in the air to celebrate their contribution. These donations will be used to create hairpieces for financially disadvantaged children in the United States and Canada suffering from long-term medical hair loss from any diagnosis. We are very proud of our students, parents, and teachers for their generous donations.

Prep TEC Program Launch Gala

Please join us at Fairmont Preparatory Academy on Thursday, March 28 from 6-8pm for a gala event to launch our new Prep TEC Program. We invite you to join us to hear all about our technology program, including the two years of research and professional development behind it. See the program in action by visiting our department-specific "classroom experiences." You'll be amazed at the ways our 1:1 iPad program will enhance student learning in every class, from calculus to P.E. This event is open to all Fairmont families, preschool-12th grade.
Click Here to RSVP

Fairmont Summer Programs: Now Enrolling!

Hear Ye! Hear Ye! The Fairmont Summer Programs website is now LIVE and accepting applications for all the lords and ladies of the kingdom! Sign up before April 30th to receive a 10% discount on summer school and summer camp.

Preschool-8th Grade:
http://www.fairmontsummerprograms.com/
High School:
http://www.fairmontsummerschool.com/

Weekly E-Newsletters 
Anaheim Hills Campus
Historic Anaheim Campus
North Tustin Campus

March Lunch Menus 
Anaheim Hills Preschool-1st Grade
Anaheim Hills 2nd-8th Grade
Historic Anaheim Campus Preschool
Historic Anaheim Campus Kindergarten
Historic Anaheim Campus 1st-8th Grade
North Tustin Preschool-Kindergarten
North Tustin 1st-8th Grade

Contributed by Alyssa, Fairmont Private Schools