March (Reading!) Madness

Most of the talk regarding March Madness on the airwaves and on television has to do with the fact that only one number one seed--Duke--made it to the Final Four. Butler?! However, at Calvert, the March Madness is March READING Madness. Under the expert, passionate eye of Lower School Librarian Tina Thomas, students in the Lower School are reading feverishly all month long in a friendly competition to promote reading in each grade level and throughout the entire Lower School. This month, in addition to my regular diet of educational articles, I have read Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us by Daniel Pink and Seven Secrets of the Savvy School Leader by Robert Evans. I just started NurtureShock: New Thinking About Children by Po Bronson and Ashley Merryman. There are only three days left in March; join the Madness at Calvert and read, read, read!

Back in Action!

We returned to school yesterday after a week of spring break. Although it was rainy and some students--and teachers!--were still a bit groggy because of the time change a week earlier, we had a very good first day back. We now have a stretch of ten consecutive five-day weeks, which is wonderful from an instructional standpoint. I cannot remember a longer stretch of five-day weeks in the past few years. The continuity is very beneficial. After the ten weeks, we have Memorial Day weekend and then our final week of classes and ceremonies. It is amazing to think that just a few weeks ago, there was (lots of) snow on the ground, and now it is beautiful and sunny!

What a Day!

It has been quite a 24 hours here on campus. Last night, a standing room only crowd in the Lower School auditorium watched the 8th Annual Middle School Talent Show. The performers were terrific--singing, dancing, and playing instruments. It was quite a show. This morning, the Middle School held a carnival to raise money for Haitian relief efforts. Activities included face painting, limbo dancing, sack toss, a tent-assembling race, and a homemade bracelet sale. At the same time across campus, the 7th and 8th Age girls performed in their annual Dance Assembly. Under the watchful eye of teacher Jane Sewell, the girls did a wonderful job, much to the delight of their parents, grandparents, and siblings. Now, after an evening and morning of frenetic activity, the campus is quiet. We resume classes again on Monday, March 22. Please enjoy the pictures below.

8th Grade Art Show at Evergreen

As reported in my February 28 post, 8th graders art students have their "Acrylic Paintings on Canvas" on display at The Evergreen on West Coldspring Lane. Yesterday afternoon, parents, students, and teachers gathered at The Evergreen for a celebration. The paintings look terrific! The subject matter of cups and mugs fits perfectly with the decor and amidst the smell of fresh coffee and baked goods. One customer asked Mrs. Kamp if the paintings were for sale! Please enjoy the pictures belows, and please stop by and see them in person!

Yes, I Wore Pajamas Today!

In celebration of "P" week in Pilot Class, today was Pajama and Pancake Day! The Pilot Class teachers, as well as Dr. Trusty and I, wore our PJs at school. They were so comfy it was difficult to change back into my normal attire for the afternoon. However, given that I had to attend the Board of Trustees meeting after school, I think it was a good idea that I put my blazer and tie back on! The students also enjoyed pancakes that were served hot from the griddle set up right in the classroom.