Grace and courtesy are keystones of a Montessori education, embodied throughout the day in how we treat each other, from the early morning greetings to asking questions and getting through disagreements with compassion and confidence.
Upper Elementary has Grace and Courtesy Luncheons to support our grace and courtesy mindset. These luncheons allow students to gain helpful tools to support their independence, practice grace and courtesy skills at mealtime, and increase a sense of community among students. Students actively participate in the preparation, set up, and clean up, with the 5th graders hosting the first and second luncheons! 
Our first Grace and Courtesy luncheon was a big success! Fifth-grade students invited special guests with hand-written invitations. Guests of honor included Primary teachers, Mrs. Sabuhi and Mrs. Bowman-Leonard, Middle School teacher, Mr. Keeler, Spanish teacher, Mrs. Chaux, Mrs. Hoyes our Director of Community Engagement, and Mrs. O’Brian, Head of School.
One element of grace and courtesy for the elementary child is determining what is appropriate to a particular situation and then behaving accordingly. The older students elegantly modeled for the younger peers how to express appreciation and admiration toward others. Students come dressed in clothes that would be appropriate for a special family function or meal.
Under the guidance of Ms. Pinciotti, our Events Coordinator, students are active participants in preparing, setting up, and cleaning up the luncheon.
