Back to School Resources: Academy

Dear Academy Families,

As another wonderful school year comes to a close, we find ourselves reflecting on just how much growth, laughter, and learning we’ve shared together. Thank you for the trust, enthusiasm, and partnership you’ve brought to our classroom community each and every day. Your children have truly made this year one to remember! Our 4th and 5th-graders have impressed us with their perseverance, creativity, and compassion. We are so proud of everything they’ve achieved.

While summer is a time for rest and recharging, we also encourage students to keep their minds engaged. Reading every day, practicing math facts, exploring nature, writing in journals, and pursuing creative interests are great ways to stay sharp during the break.

We are already excited about the year ahead! Whether your child is stepping into 5th grade or joining us fresh in 4th, we know they are ready to take on new challenges and continue to shine.

Keep an eye out in August for information about schedules, and welcome-back events!

Wishing you a summer full of sunshine, good books, new adventures, and plenty of rest. Thank you for welcoming us into your children’s lives – it is a gift we don’t take lightly.

With gratitude,

Emiko Morgenstern and Andrea Dillion

The Peace Academy Teachers

Summer Work for Students

Summer is the time to kick back with a bunch of good books and get lost in the imaginations of authors with a wide variety of styles, visions, and perspectives on the world. We have included the 4th and 5th-grade suggested reading lists from the Connie Morella Library in Bethesda. Returning students have visited this library with us before, and upcoming students can look forward to library field trips here this coming year.

Students should keep a log of the books they read, which they will share with the class when we return to school in late August. This can be as simple as recording the titles of books on a blank sheet of paper, along with the date each was finished. We appreciate getting to know you through what books you are currently enjoying! 

In the Academy class, students are also expected to read regularly and keep a journal over the summer to maintain their reading comprehension and writing skills. We have included a selection of summer journal prompts for inspiration (see the link below).

Math Practice

While no formal math homework is assigned, we strongly encourage students to continue practicing their math facts. Playing games such as Sumoku, Set, Mobi, Blokus, and Monopoly, or integrating math into real-world experiences like baking and fractions, calculating speed and road trips, and decimals and budget-keeping, are fun and effective ways to keep math skills sharp in an engaging, low-pressure way. Ideally, this work can be framed as part of a balanced slate of summer activities that enhances, rather than detracts from, their enjoyment of the season.

Important Early Dates

Please note the following key dates for the early fall. The full school calendar can be found on the Parent Portal.

First Day Reminders

Arrival and Dismissal

Our school day starts at 8:30 a.m., with a morning meditation circle beginning promptly at 8:45 a.m. each day.  Students are dismissed at the end of the day at 3:40 p.m.

Backpacks

Please ensure your child has a sturdy backpack large enough to comfortably hold a standard 1-inch ring binder, folders and reading book.

Water Bottles

Especially during the first (hotter) parts of the year, it’s very important that students hydrate! Please send a reusable water bottle with your child’s name on it to school on the first day. Water bottles will be kept in the classroom during the school day. At the end of week, students will take it home for washing and will bring it back the following school day. 

Indoor Shoes

We require that students bring a pair of indoor shoes or slippers that will remain at school in your child’s locker. Indoor shoes should be close-toed and have a covered heel and rubber sole. These shoes will help keep the classroom environment clean after students return from recess, Physical Education, and other outdoor activities.

Lunchboxes

Please make sure your child has a lunchbox that can be used all year. We encourage students to bring a reusable lunch box rather than paper or plastic. Students may also bring a fabric place mat. A microwave is accessible for any food items that need to be heated.

School Supplies

Here is a list of supplies that your child will need for the upcoming school year.

We hope your summer is filled with laughter, learning, adventure, and rest. Thank you for being part of our school family—we’re so proud of your children and grateful to be part of their journey.

Your partners,

Andrea & Emiko