"How often is the soul of man-especially in childhood-deprived because he is not allowed to come in contact with nature." -Maria Montessori

It has been a productive spring so far. Students across campus have been enjoying getting outside and working in the school's gardens. They have been connecting with nature in a variety of ways including seeding, transplanting, fertilizing, weeding, mulching & observing "wildlife" on their walks. In the process they are learning to be respectful stewards and caretakers of the world.

Be sure to visit our plant sales in the coming weeks. You can get a head start on your garden and help celebrate Earth Day on April 22.

On-line Plant Sale Order Form

"Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better." -Albert Einstein

During their weekly community service time, Middle School and Upper Elementary students take on the roles of mentors and role models for younger students across our campus. Eighth graders serve as " Middle School Mentors" to Lower Elementary students. Seventh graders visit primary classes to listen to students practice their reading skills. Sixth graders have the pleasure of working with toddlers in our Infant/Toddler classes. Fifth graders visit primary classrooms and serve as helpers and role models, especially on the playground.

Pairing older students with younger ones fits nicely with the Montessori philosophy and provides unique learning opportunities for both age groups. Younger students look up to older friends and often learn well from them. They can't wait to see their mentors each week and may catch a glimpse of what their lives may be like in the future. Older students learn (and remember) about young children. They have the opportunity to be leaders, encouragers and role models. Both age groups can work on their communication skills. As students share time, activities and fun with one another, friendships develop and flourish. As a school, our "sense of community" becomes stronger.

Students and teachers have responded positively to our mentoring activities this year. What a great way for our older students to serve our Montessori community!

Louise Knisley
Community Service Coordinator

For the past seven weeks, in memory of her father, Brian Merriman, Lexi Merriman has been representing the Upstate in the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS) inaugural campaign called “Students for a Cure." The student who raised the most money for the cause would be able to name a clinical research trial in their loved one's name. Well, not only did Lexi raise over $52,000 with the help of her team "Brian's Merri Men" earning her that naming right and the title "LLS South Carolina Student of the Year," but she was also recognized with a citizenship award for community involvement that had a college scholarship attached! Nestor Rodriguez-McKneally was also recognized as 'Team Member of the Year" for helping to raised over $9,000 for Lexi's campaign.

Community service is one of the Four Pillars that MSA is built on and it is wonderful to see how our students take their passion, commitment, and skills out into the world and make such a positive impact! Congratulations Lexi and Nestor for your good work raising funds and awareness to fight blood cancers!