Note from Head of School
May 31, 2013

May 31, 2013

Note from the Head of School:

Dear Parents,

I hope you had a good Memorial Day weekend.  This past week at Princeton Junior School we had several prospective students visit our school.  One of our visitors commented that "this school is really big and beautiful!"  I agree.  I also like that there are lots of trees around it and that there are lots of fun activities going on in the classrooms.  Today, I was Head of School.  I learned that teachers are much busier than the students.  As Head of School, my day was fun and intense.  I had to do a lot of problem solving and decision making.  I had also had to keep up with emails, the schedule, and I even had to run some errands with Ms. Clark.  I led a school wide math challenge with an estimation box.  Paris Bradley was the winner and she went home with 228 Hershey Kisses.  Congratulations Paris!

This afternoon there was a concert by Princeton Friends School orchestra.  The teacher for the orchestra had a daughter that went to PJS and her teachers were Ms. Fuccello and Mrs. Boruch.  She is now graduating high school and going to college next year!  I bet she would be happy to come back to PJS for a visit.  Did you know that this year is our 30th anniversary?  Ms. Clark is happy to enjoy it with our entire school community, the Founder of the school, friends of the school, and alumni.

My day was really fun and almost the biggest day of my life :)

Have a good weekend,

Nate Wallace

Below is a link with information about Glitter Lemonade's event at the Make-A-Wish castle this weekend.

Hope to see you there ~ Silvana

http://www.glitterlemonade.com/fundraiser/wish

Note from Head of School
May 10, 2013

Dear Parents,

The learning at PJS is in full bloom! PJS students are demonstrating their knowledge and understanding in a variety of ways. Just in the past two days, I have observed the third grade students testing their hypotheses as they carefully dissected owl pellets for their study of raptors.  Their meticulous observations of animal bones and the discourse alongside these observations impressed me with how they are practicing their critical thinking skills. Meanwhile, Grade II culminated their study of 'mothers' by hosting a beautiful mother's day gathering.  They read aloud their own poetry and prose, and presented summaries of books they read about families.  Their use of rich vocabulary for their descriptions of their mothers and the obvious distillation of their writing through multiple revisions and editing is a demonstration of academic rigor.  Meanwhile, they stood smiling reading aloud their pieces as their mothers beamed with joy; the recipients of their children's fine work.  Finally, the Kindergarten class parlayed their talent in the performing arts in both song and dance for their families at the Kindergarten Tea.  They baked special treats for their guests.  Cooking is a hands-on activity that is a regular practice for PJS students.  To measure and mix ingredients is the ultimate 'scientific experiment' with a vested interested in the outcome.  In the JK classroom students are not only working on the fundamentals of letter and word recognition, they are also composing math word problems in a meaningful and developmentally appropriate manner!  As part of their pet shop study, students are immersing themselves as mathematicians by solving problems that directly relate to their course of study.  Their exercises higher order thinking skills is preparation for Kindergarten and beyond.

From our youngest students to our soon-to-be Grade V graduates, learning is made visible here at PJS.  Moreover, this proves that in an academic environment learning can be fun!  When it is fun, this is a huge motivator for students to continue to ask questions and seek answers.

As we move forward with the IB PYP program, I am excited about the enhancements that IB PYP will bring to PJS. 

Have a very Happy Mother's Day!

Warm Regards,
Silvana
 

Head of School Note
April 20, 2013

Dear PJS Parents,
The events at Boston Marathon startled us all into yet another episode where fear and our sense of security as a country has been threatened.  Our hearts, thoughts, and prayers go out to families affected by this horrific act.  Fortunately, no one in the PJS community was directly affected by the bombing. My son Charlie was at the site of the explosion only two hours before it occurred.  So, I am writing with deep gratitude that my son was spared.  The graphic media attention brings sadness and despair.  Yet, as a parent and educator, I am reminded that we can model for our children that in the end, goodness wins. When crisis hits, this is an opportunity for community to come together. This has been my message to my children, as I hug them each night and thank God that we are safe. 
Princeton Junior School is a school family that models a deep respect for childhood and community.   We are so fortunate to have this oasis for learning, nurturing the hearts and challenging the minds our students.  Friday morning during our Open Mic assembly our student body came together and supported Jasmine, Micah, Polaris, Praslin, Isaac, Isabella, Asher, Michael, Adonai, Alejandro, Antonia, Christine, Janiah, Seth, Shea, Grace, and Kayla. They shared various interests and performed their talents to their peer group, teachers, and parents.  I commend these students for taking the initiative, showing courage, and exhibiting a growing sense of self-confidence.  I also feel very proud of the PJS school family for providing that safe place for our students to shine!  There is an obvious long-term positive impact that occasions like this give to our future citizens of the world!
Today, Saturday, April 20th is our Tag Sale.  McIntyre Commons is buzzing with preparations for the big sale.  Margret van Vuuren is leading this effort, along with the Tag Sale Volunteer Team.  There is additional support from our faculty, staff, parents, and PJS students. Much is accomplished when many hands come together.  No matter how much we make from this event tomorrow (please come!), I love seeing our community come together.
On the evening of May 9th and the morning of May 10th we will be hosting information sessions on the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program (IB PYP) and the instructional framework that supports it.  This is an exciting new development for Princeton Junior School.  I believe is the ideal program what will differentiate PJS, while remaining consistent with the School's heritage of academic excellence, in a caring and supportive environment.  Being an IB PYP authorized school will make PJS an attractive option for families in the competitive private school market.  This serves families who are also seeking a school that is part of a respected international network, and the future for their children.  IB PYP has the potential to invigorate all members of our learning community, including administrators, teachers, students, parents, and our governing body.  IB PYP allows for a robust curriculum that is internationally benchmarked.  I hope that you will be able to join me at the upcoming information sessions to learn more about the program and our plans moving forward. 
I hope to see you at the Tag Sale, at our Earth Day Celebration on Monday, or at Founders Day next Friday.  We have a busy week together :)
Warm Regards,
Silvana

Important Note from Head of School regarding the renowned International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program (IB PYP)
April 20, 2013

Head of School Note
April 12, 2013

Dear Parents,
Hopefully you read my 'Special Update' from last week.  If not, I have attached it. Please see : Important Note from Head of School  dated April 05,2013,  regarding the renowned International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program (IBPYP).

This morning, the 1st and 2nd grade classes engaged in a readers' theatre performance of the African folktale, Abiyoyo, for their parents and fellow PJS students.  This was the result of a study facilitated by their grade level teachers, in collaboration with their Music and Windows to the World classes. This is an example of how we integrate the specialist classes into the core subjects.  Performance based assessments like this are excellent tools to measure learning, but also deepen student understanding of a concept they are studying.  Adding an element of "fun" is the usual PJS perk.  Thank you, PJS teachers for enriching our students' learning with experiences like this, and thank you parents for your continual support.
 
As you will notice in the calendar highlights, our Earth Day Tag sale is Saturday, April 20th.  This community event is intended for PJS families to come together and participate in a "fun"draiser for our PJS.  It will also showcase our schoolhouse to the outside community.  Please spread the word!!  Our Glitter Lemonade Club generated lawn signs this afternoon. Maybe you will spot one on your way to school next week.    
 
Please stay tuned for further details about the Earth Day Tag Sale in the coming days.
 
Have a wonderful weekend.
 
Sincerely,
Silvana

Head of School Note
March 15, 2013

Dear Parents,

This morning was the perfect way to send our PJS students on their way to spring break. PJS was truly a 'School House of Rock!' Some of our students sat in awe, while others moved to the rhythm of the tune. All were engaged. The remaining decor from our auction complemented the spirit of happy tunes in the Commons. I would like to extend a special thank you to Mr. Morpurgo for coming in to share his love for music with all PJS students, whether through Little Wing or  School of Rock. The testimony of his hard work was apparent, not only in our students, but in the performance by his older students from School of Rock. Mr. Morpurgo will continue his work with us during PJS "After School  of Rock" This is an excellent opportunity for our students to explore their interest in music making in an after school club. Please see registration forms for further details and other program offerings.

I wish everyone a relaxing spring break. I can already see the crocuses in full bloom!

See you on April Fool's Day :)

Warm Regards,

Silvana

Head of School Note
February 01, 2013

Dear Parents,
 
Happy February!  Since the start of the New Year, we have been very, very busy at work.  In fact, I have been so involved with the happenings at our school and future planning that I haven’t been keeping up with my communication updates.  My apologies. As a result, this update will be much longer than usual. 
 
Professional Development:
In early January, Suzanne Gespass & Tamar Jacobson, from the education department at Rider University visited our preschool through grade II classrooms.  Afterwards, our teachers met with them and engaged in the first of a series of regular lunch conversations that will be part of their own professional growth.  This is another way in which our work with Rider will aim to close the gap between theory and practice, and teaching and learning.  Our teachers are excited about this opportunity to grow professionally, as PJS students will certainly benefit as well.
 
Rick Ellis, a veteran early childhood expert, visited PJS in mid-January. Rick spent the day visiting classroom and observing PJS teachers in action.  Later that afternoon, Rick presented to PJS faculty.  He reviewed the essential elements of a Reggio Inspired learning environment.  He touched upon a long list of traits that also describes what is considered best practice in preschool and primary education.  For example, Rick emphasized the importance of closely observing our students, and how these observations inform effective curriculum and instruction.  Discourse and self-reflection are also important for learning.  Finally, Rick reminded us that a question to ask ourselves is "How is the child smart?" rather than "How smart is this child?"  We expect Rick will return soon to further enrich our practice.
Also, PJS teachers are scheduling field visits to classrooms in the NJ/NY/PA area.  The purpose of these visits will be to learn instructional strategies, techniques and curricular enhancements from other teachers in either a similar grade or subject.  I have historically found this as an effective professional development opportunity, that also is free of charge J.
Newcomers to our community:
 
We have two new students to PJS. Oscar Morpurgo is with Courtney White and the 2’s class.  Andrew Spies is with Courtney Shannon and the JK class.  Both boys are transitioning into the preschool with a warm welcome from their classmates.  Please join me in welcoming the boys and their families to our school community.
 
Also, as many of you already know, Lisa Zaccarelli has been absent due to illness.  It is still not clear when Lisa will return to us this year.  We all miss Lisa and hope for her speedy recovery.  In considering the needs of the 2nd grade students, Anne Korsen is stepping in as Lisa’s substitute.  Anne comes to us from highly respected school, where she worked in special services and as a long-term substitute teacher.  Anne’s expertise is in literacy.  She is also in a graduate level teaching program at Rider University, where I first learned about her fine reputation as an educator.   We are so lucky to have Anne with us and I know you will agree when you meet her.
Moving forward together:
 
In mid-January we had a very successful open house.  There were several visitors who also participated in an event sponsored by Little Wing, with Mike Morpurgo, our music teacher while Sharis is on maternity leave.   A few families in our preschool also joined in the fun.

Our next open house will be in mid-February.  Please notify Courtney Shannon, our Admissions Coordinator, if you would like to help with the event.  We truly appreciate the help and support of our PJS families.
 
As a reminder, we have a tuition incentive program (Family-to-Family letter attached) It is our way of saying ‘thank you’ to those of you who spread the word about PJS. 
 
Early last week, many parents joined us for ‘Parents’ Day’.   I had the opportunity to share the PJS blueprints and timeline for future planning. I have attached a section of my presentation for those parents who were not able to attend.  If this piques your curiosity, please feel free to schedule an appointment with me.  I am more than happy to share with families the recent developments and our planning for PJS’s growth and development.  This is an exciting time to be part of the PJS community. 
 
Re-enrollment contracts will be sent out this week.  They need to be returned by February 22nd, just in time for the PJS ‘Feelin’ Groovy Auction.’  Stay tuned for fun incentives for those who submit their re-enrollment contracts by the due date.  This will be an effort in saying ‘thank you’ to those families who make a commitment to PJS, so that we can proceed with planning for next year accordingly.
 
Parent Education Series
 
So far this year, we’ve had a successful visit from middle school admissions directors, sharing with 5th grade students and their parents a bit about the admissions process and insight about their particular school.  We also had Rick Ellis come in and speak to preschool families and others interested in learning about the importance of pre-academic learning and the philosophical underpinnings behind what is considered ‘best practice’. Rick shared the implications for a “push down” curriculum, the need for a balanced literacy approach, and respecting the continuum of child development.  The participants in this thought-provoking discussion elicited conflicting views and related issues in early childhood education.   They also affirmed the philosophical “child-sensitive” direction of our learning community.
 
This spring will have a small panel with food and nutrition experts.  We will also have a child psychologist and a pediatrician come in.  Please email me questions you may have or a particular focus you are interested in for either of these panel visits.   Please write “panel visit” in the subject heading.
 
Community Events
 
Since the beginning of the school year, I’m having so much fun celebrating the wonderful ideas that PJS students bring to our school.  Observing children inspiring other children is an awesome experience.  Paris Bradley raising awareness about voting and holding an all-school vote for president, Shea Bradley (Paris’ brother) holding a clothing donation drive for families who lost so much as a result of Hurricane Sandy, and Ben Robertson initiating PJS’s first geocaching expedition.  These are examples of PJS students having a passion or an idea and then having the courage (and leadership ability) to act upon it.
 
This past week, a group of girls caught me at the end of recess.  During recess they pulled together a dance performance, along with a song (in a capella).  After performing it for me in the library, we decided to go ‘public.’  That is, they are going to practice and develop their piece a bit more and then perform it for the entire PJS student body.  The idea didn’t stop there.  The girls will launch the first ‘PJS’s Open Mic’ all-school gathering.  Mr. Morpurgo and I will be accepting sign-ups from PJS students who also would like to perform (sing, dance, read aloud, play an instrument, tell a joke, etc.) for the ‘PJS’s Open Mic’ on Friday, February 22nd.    The deadline will be Thursday, February 14th.  If your child is working on a piece and is not ready to perform this month, don’t fret.  We will schedule another ‘Open Mic’ this spring.   These are a fun way to get ready for our big Talent Show on May 31st.
 
Please make plans to join us at the ‘Feelin’ Groovy’ Auction on Saturday, February 23rd.  I am eager to see everyone in favorite hippie attire, in an evening when the adults can have fun, celebrate and show their PJS spirit and support.
 
We are more than halfway through our journey in the 2012-2013 school year.  This is also six month into my tenure as the third PJS head of school.  It has brought me great joy in getting to know “Who we are together."  I anticipate we will experience continued joy and success as we are “Moving forward together.” 
 
See you soon.
 
Warmest Regards,
Silvana

Friday Newsletter from the Head of School
January 04, 2013

Head of School Note:

PJS is in full swing once again.  It feels great! Please join me in welcoming a few new staff members to our school community.  Mike Morpurgo will be Sharis Swartley’s long-term substitute until the end of March for music classes. Mike will also lead the PJS choir. Mike is both the owner and an instructor for the Princeton School of Rock.  He comes highly recommended and has extensive experience as a teacher and a musician, with rave reviews by both his students and their parents.  In addition, Mike will also be piloting a music program called Little Wings in the preschool, to complement our Music Together program.  Mike is also a parent of Oscar, who will join Mrs. White’s class in the preschool.

Our Music Together program will continue in Sharis' absence. Courtney White has been trained as a Music Together teacher and she will continue this program for the preschool.

In the Afternoon program, Kathleen Miller will be Sharis’ long-term substitute. Kathleen has been a support staff in the preschool and in the After School program for the past few years.  She knows our students, PJS culture, and has extensive experience with young children. She is well received by PJS students and teachers, and is able to seamlessly continue with our little ones in Sharis’ absence.

As a reminder, because of our extensive school closure due to Hurricane Sandy, we have extended the school year to June 13th.   In addition, there are several very important announcements related to the school calendar:    

         •Parents’ Day will be on Tuesday, January 29th at 8:30am.  On this day, PJS students and their parents will acquaint themselves with the program and curriculum for the 2013-2014 school year.  Should Grade V parents have specific questions about the transition from PJS to middle school, I am available for individual appointments throughout the admissions process.  Please let me know if you would like to meet with me.  

           •The Parent Teacher Conferences on Friday, Feb. 15th will be postponed.  School will be closed, but the Vacation Program will still be offered on that day. 

           •Friday Focus is cancelled on March 1st.  There will be a regular school day

           .•Parent teacher conferences will be on Friday, March 8th.  On that day we will have a 12noon dismissal for all students. There will be no After School program.  However, we will provide childcare while parents are in conferences with teachers. 

Finally, we have a new furry friend at PJS.  Please ask Kathryn Amon and her Grade III students all about it.  This is a very exciting opportunity for our school.

 
Thank you for your continued support in making this a successful year at Princeton Junior School.

Warm Regards,Silvana

Friday Newsletter from Head of School
November 16, 2012

November 16, 2012

              Because of Hurricane Sandy, many of our scheduled events have coincided.  McIntyre Commons was a busy place this past week.  During our Halloween Celebration….On November 13th, our students marched around and around the Commons, while PJS parents showed their support with instruments in hand. 

            Last night our "town square" was bustling with activity once again.  Not only did we have an active book fair and parent/teacher conferences, I also hosted a group of educators as part the Princeton Literacy Alliance.  Our visitors were impressed with our vibrant community.  It was a delightful scene. 

            I want to extend a special 'thank you' to Susan Weintraub for organizing our fall book fair.  She offered her labor of love to make this a successful event for PJS.  Special thank you to the parent volunteers who helped set-up, assisted the children with their wish lists, and boxed up the remaining books. It is encouraging to feel this partnership with our PJS parents.  

          As we get ready for our Thanksgiving Celebration this coming Tuesday, it has been heartwarming to observe the baskets overflowing outside our classrooms.   Thank you for all of your contributions thus far.  We are PJS – the school with a BIG heart. Mercer Street Friends will be here to pick-up on Tuesday at 12:30.  There is still time, if you forgot and still wish to contribute.    As our "Soup Dads" work to warm our bellies, and our students and Mrs. Zeppenfeld prepare the bread with the ingredients from our own garden, I look forward to celebrating one of my favorite holidays with you.  See you in the Commons! 

 ~ Silvana

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Empowering Students to Give
November 09, 2012

Princeton Junior School weathered the storm beautifully

During our all-school gathering this morning, I asked students to take a moment of silence in memory of Hurricane Sandy casting a shadow on the lives of many. I reminded our students of all we have to be grateful for. Despite the fact that we were without power in the wake of the storm for what seemed like forever, fortunately we have a beautiful school and loving community to return to.   Now is our opportunity to reach out and support those who are less fortunate. As soon as I made this remark, hands in the air filled the room. The students asked many questions about what we could do to help others. Their eagerness to help and curiosity about who, what, where, how, and when was a beautiful sight.  

Christine Zeppenfeld Wins Prestigious Award from Garden Club of America!
April 03, 2012

READ ALL ABOUT IT! PJS Students Publish Their Own Newspaper
January 05, 2012
For the first time ever, PJS students have written and published their own newspaper! Created after school during sessions of the PJS Press Club, the new publication is called THE PJS TIMES and features work by more than a dozen enterprising reporters, writers, editors, and photographers. Check out by clicking on the above headline!