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 second Grace and Courtesy luncheon was a big success! Fifth-grade students invited special guests.
The guests of honor were Nurse Vicky and Facilities Director, Ralph Andujar. Other guests included Primary teachers Ms. Monforte and Miss. O’Brian, music teacher, Mr. Mitnick, PCTE Director, Mrs, Kazmi, HOS, Mrs. O’Brian, piano teacher, Ms. Miller, Lower Elementary teacher, Ms. Suh, and Infant teacher, Mrs. Barrera.
Because we were serving Japanese food at the luncheon, Upper Elementary students practiced using chopsticks earlier in the week.
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.
