Dear Fourth and Fifth Grade Parents, 

Thank you for joining us at our Lunar New Year Celebration! The Fourth and Fifth Grade students truly shone in their puppet show and song performance, bringing both beauty and humor to the occasion. It was a joy to see their creativity and storytelling skills come to life! This year, all Grade classes brought something unique and special to the performance, collectively celebrating the Chinese culture and demonstrating their developing proficiency in Mandarin.

A special thanks as well for attending the Spring Parent-Teacher Conferences. It was wonderful connecting with each of you and discussing the incredible growth and progress of your children.

Last week, the class completed their journey through Ancient Persia, discovering the rich culture and history of this great civilization. Highlights included Persian Gardens, where students explored the intention behind these gardens as places of peace, symmetry, and beauty, reflecting on how nature and design intertwine; Persepolis, where students carefully studied and created detailed illustrations of this majestic city, gaining a deeper appreciation for its grandeur and significance;  Persian Wars, where students discussed the conflicts between Persia and Greece, helping them understand the shifting power of empires and what the wars meant for history. They also learned about The Cyrus Cylinder, an ancient artifact through which students explored leadership and governance, reflecting on what makes a just and wise leader.

This week, we begin our journey into the fascinating world of Ancient India. Students will explore the geography of India, tracing its rivers, mountains, and lands that shaped its civilizations; discover its many languages, including the significance of Sanskrit and how oral traditions preserved wisdom for centuries; meet legendary leaders, from great kings to spiritual teachers, brought to life through stories and myths.

It promises to be a week full of adventure, storytelling, and artistic expression!

We hope you enjoy a restful and rejuvenating Midwinter Break next week! May it bring warmth, renewal, and time for family and creativity.

Announcements and Reminders for Fourth/Fifth Grade:

Valentine’s Day: As has been our tradition at The Garden School, please save any student card/gift exchanges for play dates off campus. 

• 2/17 - 2/21:  Mid-Winter Break

• 2/24: Teacher In-service: No School

• 3/8: Community Work Day

• 4/4: Half Day - Grandfriend’s Tea 11:00 a.m.

• 4/7 - 4/11: Spring Break (No School)

Warmly,

Ki Paulyna