St. Anne’s Episcopal School - Chestertown Spy

Research-Based Singapore Math at St. Anne’s Episcopal School

June 8, 2017 by St. Anne’s Episcopal School

In an age when many questions can be answered with the aid of an electronic device, what do our children need to learn in school?

Singapore Math Consultant Sarah Schaefer engages first graders in talking about different ways they can solve the same problem.

In 2016 St. Anne’s Episcopal School adopted the research-based Singapore Math approach to preparing its students for a rapidly changing world. Solving math problems is just one of the benefits; students, parents, and teachers are energized by this innovative approach, which asks students to understand the “why” before the “how.”

“Finding the answer is just one small piece of the puzzle,” Lower School Head Valerie White said. “What is more important is the ability to think critically and understand the “why” behind the solution. When we press kids to think more deeply and demonstrate an understanding of the concept or skill we are extending their learning to create true mastery.”

St. Anne’s Episcopal School introduced Singapore Math in Kindergarten through 2nd Grade in the fall of 2016 and will expand the program through 4th Grade next year.

Singapore math is a teaching method and curriculum developed and used in Singapore, a nation that consistently ranks at the top of international assessments of student achievement in math. One of the defining features of Singapore math is visualization. The concrete, pictorial, and abstract method underscores real-world application of math.

The Singapore Math approach emphasizes depth and process over memorization and drill work. It reinforces the life lesson that there is more than one way to solve a problem. Because children work collaboratively with others to problem solve, Singapore Math also teaches children to communicate, to listen, and to respect their peers. These are all skills that will help children navigate and build positive relationships in life.

St. Anne’s invested in Singapore Math resources and teacher training for faculty in Preschool through Fourth Grade and formally initiated the program in Kindergarten through Second Grade last year with the help of a grant from the Longwood Foundation. Teachers, parents, and students tell us what a difference they see this year as a result of adopting Singapore Math:

“What has been happening in the classroom this year is really exciting! Because we used the Singapore Math approach to teach place value, our students have a deeper understanding of numbers and how they relate to each other,” said first-grade teacher Melissa Meier. “My first graders this year have a stronger number sense, which is the foundation of all mathematics.”

John Burk, Director of Academic Innovation, Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science at St. Andrew’s School observed how the Singapore Math approach lays the foundation for success in high school. “As a high school math and science teacher, I see daily that the most successful students are the ones who develop a flexible approach to problem-solving, are willing to seek out more than one way to solve a problem, and embrace the creative exploration that is integral to math and science,” Burk said. “As a kindergarten parent, I am thrilled that my daughter is learning to approach math in a playful and creative way that is helping her develop a joyful approach to learning math, grounded in a deep understanding that will serve throughout her education.”

St. Anne’s second graders shared the following reflections about math this year:

“I have learned that there are different ways to solve problems and arrive at answers.”

“I am not as worried about taking risks or making mistakes. I know it helps my brain to grow.”

“I like seeing how math can be USED, like in measuring length and mass.”

“I am better at math and more confident.”

“I have learned to not give up so quickly.”

St. Anne’s Episcopal School first grader Brian Walsh of Chestertown (left) uses Singapore Math principles to find many answers to a math question with fellow student Wyeth from Dover.

Located in Middletown, Del., St. Anne’s Episcopal School focuses on academic excellence and spiritual growth in a small, family-oriented and diverse community. St. Anne’s is a co-ed independent day school for children in Preschool (age 3) through Grade 8. Founded by visionary educators from St. Andrew’s School in 2002, our academic program prepares students for honors course work in the finest area high schools through its commitment to intellectual, spiritual, physical, social, and artistic growth and character development.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

St. Anne’s Episcopal School Faculty Offers 4 Weeks of Summer Camp

March 20, 2017 by St. Anne’s Episcopal School

St. Anne’s Episcopal School is pleased to announce a 2017 summer program with four themed weeks of day camp as well as specialized clinics that will be led by St. Anne’s faculty. Four weeks of Day Camp will operate from 8:30am to 3:30pm for children ages 5-13 during the weeks of June 12, June 19, June 26^th, and July 10^th at a rate of $250 per week. Additionally St. Anne’s will offer summer SAT and SSAT preparation (for middle school and high school students) as well as sports clinics for girls, and Irish Dance; scheduling, pricing and ages vary. Interested families may visit www.StAnnesDE.org/summer to learn more.

“We are thrilled to offer such enriching summer opportunities for the greater community,” said St. Anne’s Episcopal School Summer Camp Director Meghan Ferster, “Morning and afternoon sessions are led by our wonderful St. Anne’s faculty. Every week offers new adventures on St. Anne’s beautiful 125-acre campus. Our youngest campers will enjoy themed weeks and activities while older children have choices to fit their interests. There is truly something for everyone!”

At St. Anne’s Episcopal School, we seek to open the hearts and minds of each student — through academic excellence, spiritual development, and a small, family-oriented and diverse community. St. Anne’s is a co-ed independent day school for children in Preschool (age 3) through grade 8. Founded by visionary educators from St. Andrew’s School in 2002, our academic program prepares students for honors course work in the finest area high schools through its commitment to intellectual, spiritual, physical, social, and artistic growth and character development.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

St. Anne’s Announces New Scholarship for Higher Education Families

January 22, 2017 by St. Anne’s Episcopal School

St. Anne’s Episcopal School is announcing a new Scholarship for $5,000 per year for one new Middle School student applying for grades 5-8 for the 2017-18 academic year. This scholarship is need-based and is available to new students with a parent or legal guardian currently working for a university or college that offers higher education in this region. The Higher Education Scholarship award may continue each year that the student is enrolled at St. Anne’s through 8th grade graduation (up to four years).

“At St. Anne’s we value quality education at every level. This scholarship opportunity can help make a St. Anne’s education more affordable for a middle school student whose family clearly values academic engagement in a compassionate community,” said St. Anne’s Head of School, Peter Thayer, “Our scholarship programs support our goals of providing challenging academics, spiritual development, diversity and inclusion – cornerstones of the Episcopal school tradition.”

Students must submit Admission applications by April 14, 2017. An online Financial Aid application is also required to qualify for the Higher Education Scholarship. This process is confidential and candidates may be eligible for additional financial assistance. Applications, instructions, and Open House dates can be found at www.StAnnesDE.org in the Admission section.

There is no area residency requirement; current St. Anne’s students live in all three Delaware counties as well as northern and eastern Maryland and Pennsylvania. Dover and portions of Maryland are included in the school’s transportation program which is described online.

Additional scholarships available at St. Anne’s next year include one U.S. Service Scholarship for $7,500 per year for students with a family member who has served in the U.S. Armed Forces, and two Community Merit Scholarships each worth $7,500 per year. Both of these scholarships are also for new students entering grades 5-8 and continue for the number of years that they attend the school. The Service Scholarship is need based; middle school students with an immediate family member who is serving or has served in any of the five branches of the U.S. Military (Reserve and National Guard units: Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines, and Coast Guard) may apply. The merit scholarships are awarded annually to talented new Middle School students.

“St. Anne’s continues to offer the Service Scholarship and the merit awards through the kindness of anonymous donors. Our goal is to provide opportunities to enthusiastic students who may not have considered an independent school education for grades 5 through 8,” notes Head of School Peter Thayer.

All scholarship programs candidates must submit the Admission application and indicate their desire to be considered by April 14, 2017. Applicants must have an interview and a day of classroom participation. Parents are also expected to tour and meet with school administrators. The required admission exam will be administered on Saturday, April 22, by invitation. For details inquire online or contact Jan Ross, Director of Admissions, (302) 378-3179 x311.

The school remains committed to providing financial support to families who cannot meet the entire tuition commitment. St. Anne’s maintains an average class size of 15, and a student/teacher ratio of 7:1. “Our students are known by their teachers. The curriculum is dynamic and includes science, Spanish, music, art, religion, physical education as well as special electives and interscholastic sports (starting in 6th grade). We can tailor instruction and focus on joyful learning in this small, caring community,” adds Thayer.

St. Anne’s Episcopal School is a co-ed independent day school for children Preschool (age 3) through 8th grade (www.StAnnesDe.org). Founded by visionary educators from St. Andrew’s School in 2002, St. Anne’s academic program prepares students for a rigorous high school experience. Located on 125 scenic acres in Middletown, Delaware, the school is committed to the development of the whole child through intellectual, spiritual, physical, social, and artistic growth.

Contacts and Questions

St. Anne’s Episcopal School (7:45am – 3:45pm)
211 Silver Lake Road, Middletown, DE 19709
(302) 378-3179 phone
(302) 449-0957 fax

Jan Ross, Director of Admissions ext. 311, [email protected]
Jenny Randolph, Director of Alumni & Public Relations, ext. 334, [email protected]

Statement of Non-discrimination

St. Anne’s Episcopal School admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sexual orientation, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational and admissions policies, scholarship and financial aid programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Investments at St. Anne’s are Transforming the Classroom Experience

September 19, 2016 by St. Anne’s Episcopal School

Investments in technology and an increase in faculty professional development are having a big impact on the classroom at St. Anne’s Episcopal School this fall.

teachers-at-st-annes-are-combining-their-educational-expertise-with-new-approaches-to-deepen-student-engagement-jpeg

Middle School Social Studies Teacher Ryan Brown and STEM teacher Brittany Otwell

Through a grant from the Longwood Foundation, the school is enhancing teaching strategies and outcomes. The school is adding new curriculum. With the help of a technology fund raiser last spring, St. Anne’s students now have 1:1 Chromebooks in the Fourth through Eighth grades as well as laptops in the library and the lower school STEM Lab and internet connectivity in the outdoor classroom. Students are developing their digital portfolios and expanding their use of Google Classrooms beginning in Fourth Grade.

“Our faculty is committed to bringing new ideas to their classrooms, to expanding our curriculum and resources, and to supporting the different learning styles of children,” says Head of School Peter Thayer. “They are constantly asking, ‘How can I make my class better?’ We sent six faculty to three different courses related to technology this summer. It is exciting for all of us to share in what they’ve learned. Since we are an independent school, we have the freedom to revise what and how we teach based on the hours our faculty spend in courses, webinars, research, networking, and reflection.”

St. Anne’s is introducing a new computer science curriculum in Middle School this year in place of technology class. “The students are showing us that they are very interested in learning Computer Science,” says Amy Sherman, Instructional Technology Coordinator. “A foundation in understanding computers is critical to their preparation for the future. In the students’ other classes, teachers are creating dynamic and engaging lessons that incorporate technology into their coursework. Technology is as widely used as a pencil in the classroom now.”

st-annes-4th-graders-begin-their-digital-portfolios-jpeg

Fourth graders Madison Christiano, Margaret Randolph, Layla Jones, Naima Ellis-Daniels, and Cole Massey.

For example, Middle School Language Arts teacher Cristina Bromley says that the Google Chromebooks have transformed the writing process for her students and allowed her to better individualize her writing instruction. In developing their writing skills, students have the opportunity to get immediate feedback from their peers and their teacher and collaborate on group projects, thanks to Google Classroom.

After attending the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) conference and participating in the SimpleK12 webinars last year, fourth grade teacher Jocelyn Sanders’ classroom has less of a paper trail and more of a digital footprint. “Digital projects are now another form of assessment,” explains Sanders, “Students are adept at submitting their homework digitally and using Google Slides as an alternative to essays and multiple choice tests. This year, Ms. Sanders and new fourth grade teacher Josh Kite will expand their use of digital products to support Social Studies, Geography, Virtual Field Trips, and book reports, and try new game-based teaching programs. Elementary school teachers will also expand cross curricular collaboration with the engineering units studied in STEM class.

Librarian Amy Shepherd said of the Constructing Modern Knowledge training she attended this summer, “Our training reinforced what we already know: that we need to encourage our students to take risks and not be afraid to fail. We learn more from failing than from getting the answer right the first time, or from memorizing “the answer.” I am encouraging students to try something new; it is incredible how many “right answers” and ways to solve a problem there are!”

St. Anne’s Episcopal School is a co-ed independent day school for children Pre-school (age 3) through 8th grade (https://www.stannesde.org). Founded by visionary educators from St. Andrew’s School in 2002, St. Anne’s academic program is geared to prepare students for a rigorous high school experience and provides a student/teacher ratio of 7:1. St. Anne’s is located on 125 scenic acres in Middletown, Delaware, and is committed to the development of the whole child through intellectual, spiritual, physical, social, and artistic growth.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

St. Anne’s Announces New Head of Middle School and New Faculty

September 4, 2016 by St. Anne’s Episcopal School

Jill Reilly - St. Anne's Episcopal School Head of Middle School

Jill Reilly is the new Head of Middle School at St. Anne’s.

St. Anne’s Episcopal School is pleased to welcome five new faculty members this year. Bethany Otwell of Galena, MD is teaching Fifth and Sixth Grade STEM and holds a B.S. from Elizabethtown College. Kelsey Main, who is teaching Math in the Middle School, holds a B.S.Ed. in Middle Level Education from Kutztown University of Pennsylvania. Josh Kite is teaching Fourth Grade and holds a B.A. and a B.Ed. from Tabor College (Australia). Sandy Gauding is joining St. Anne’s part time as an Administrative Assistant and will also provide morning Extended Care; she holds a B.S. in Elementary Education, a B.S. in Special Education, and a Master of Instruction, all from the University of Delaware.

Jill Reilly is the new Head of Middle School at St. Anne’s Episcopal School, replacing Lora Byrd who retired after eight years. Ms. Reilly holds a M.A. from the Teachers College, Columbia University and a B.S. from the United States Military Academy at West Point. Before coming to St. Anne’s she was a middle school teacher and most recently was the Dean of Students, Upper School, at St. George’s Independent School in Collierville, Tennessee. In addition to her role as the Head of the Middle School, Ms. Reilly will be teaching 8th grade Algebra with Quadratics, which will be one of three sections of math offered in 8th grade for the second year.

Photo: St. Anne’s Episcopal School added five new faculty members and staff for the new school year. (from left to right) Jill Reilly (Head of Middle School), Josh Kite (Fourth Grade Teacher), Sandy Gauding (Administrative Assistant), Bethany Otwell (Fifth and Sixth Grade STEM), and Kelsey Main (Seventh and Eighth Grade Math).

“A couple things drew me,” Mrs. Reilly says of her decision to come to St. Anne’s. “I was drawn to the mission of the school. I like the balance of intellectual, spiritual, physical and artistic. I was also attracted by the warmth of the search committee; it was clear that there was a phenomenal rapport among its members, and I wanted to join these professionals. And thirdly, what cemented it, were the students. During my visit I ate lunch with a mix of students and found them to be engaging and thoughtful. Some were introverted, some were extroverted, but they all engaged me, and you could see that they cared about their school in what they said, in how they presented themselves, and how they spoke for their classmates.”

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

St. Anne’s Student Presents $450 Gift to Humane Society of Kent County

June 28, 2016 by St. Anne’s Episcopal School

When Chestertown resident Maggy Ross was assigned the annual 7th grade Philanthropy Project by her Social Studies teacher at St. Anne’s Episcopal School, it wasn’t hard for her to choose which charity to recommend: the Humane Society of Kent County. She has visited numerous times to play with orphaned kittens and lonely dogs. Her compelling research presentation about her local humane society was chosen by her peers and teacher to be funded with a generous gift of $450 to help the shelter.

St. Anne’s student, Maggy Ross, presents a donation of $450 to Jane Welsh, Executive Director of the Humane Society of Kent County.

“Maggy’s presentation illustrates her deep passion for animals and her clear understanding of the funds needed to support our mission of animal rescue, animal adoptions and community education” explains Executive Director Jane Welsh. “We always need cash and in-kind donations, and this gift will help develop a new summer program and support current work at the shelter.”

“The goal of the Philanthropy Project is to help our students to experience the feeling that comes from promoting the welfare of others, and to see the value of acts of compassion,” notes St. Anne’s Head of School Peter Thayer. “Combined with our graduation requirement of 20 hours of community service and 8th grade essays about the experience, we structure a meaningful commitment to service learning at St. Anne’s. We want our students to understand early that they are part of something larger than themselves.”

Each 7th grader must pick a non-profit organization for which they have a strong personal or emotional connection. “They are encouraged to research a charity with ties to their local community,” says Social Studies teacher Mr. Ryan Brown. “Working alone or with partners, our students were tasked with contacting their charities directly via phone or email and building a case for support. Using PowerPoint or Prezi, their goal was to show their classmates why their charity was deserving or in need of a donation. Then students voted anonymously for the top prize recipients.”

The 7th grade Philanthropy Project began when St. Anne’s first opened in 2002 with the idea coming from a parent who worked for the Warren Buffett Foundation. It has become one of the highlights of the 7th grade experience at St. Anne’s. Top recipients of the project this year included Doctors Without Borders and two Delaware charities: Little Sisters of the Poor and Down Syndrome Association of Delaware.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Summer Camps for Ages 4-17 at St. Anne’s June 13th-July 8th

May 17, 2016 by St. Anne’s Episcopal School

St. Anne’s Episcopal School has announced its summer camp schedule: there will be four weeks of summer camp opportunities from June 13th through July 8th for children entering Pre-Kindergarten through 12th Grade. All camps will be held on the school’s 125 acre scenic campus, located at 211 Silver Lake Rd in Middletown, Delaware.

“We are so excited about the array of camp offerings,” said Camp Director Meghan Cooney Ferster, “from SSAT and SAT preparation courses to STEM to baking to space exploration, writing, outdoor adventures, yoga, spirituality and computer camp, we are offering something for everyone this year. There are morning and afternoon sessions to fit every schedule. More information can be found at www.stannesde.org\summer.”

St. Anne’s Episcopal School is a co-ed independent day school for children Pre-school (age 3) through 8th grade (https://www.stannesde.org). Founded by visionary educators from St. Andrew’s School in 2002, St. Anne’s academic program is geared to prepare students for a rigorous high school experience and provides a student/teacher ratio of 7:1. St. Anne’s is committed to the development of the whole child through intellectual, spiritual, physical, social, and artistic growth.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

St. Anne’s Episcopal School’s Lower School Family STEM Night

May 11, 2016 by St. Anne’s Episcopal School

St. Anne’s Episcopal School’s Lower School Family STEM Night drew a crowd of over 100 students and parents who were eager to work on a STEM challenge together.

Edward and Anna Greene of Middletown worked with Anna’s grandmother, Joyce Francisco of Elkton, MD, to design their bridge at St. Anne’s Episcopal School’s Family STEM Night.

The goal of the Lower School Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) program at St. Anne’s is to allow students to direct their own learning experience, to engage and learn in a new way, and to be creative and problem solve. Students learned that there were many solutions to the challenge of building a bridge to “Get the Three Billy Goats Gruff to the greener grass.”

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

St. Anne’s Hosts High School Fair April 27

April 18, 2016 by St. Anne’s Episcopal School

St. Anne’s Episcopal School is pleased to invite interested families to our annual high school fair, which will be held on Wednesday, April 27th from 6pm to 7:30pm in the gym at 211 Silver Lake Rd in Middletown. At least 20 local and regional high schools will be present. Representatives of a wide range of school types (independent day schools, public schools, and boarding schools) from Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia will be there to meet with students, parents, and caregivers. The event is free and open to the public, 6th and 7th-grade students and their parents are encouraged to attend, and there is no need to RSVP.

“This is a great opportunity to look ahead to your son or daughter’s next school experience,” said St. Anne’s Middle School Head of School Lora Byrd, “Our high school fair brings so many excellent schools together in one place to help families learn more about their options.”

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

‘Navigating Early Childhood’ Panel & Discussion at St. Anne’s School, January 21

January 16, 2016 by St. Anne’s Episcopal School

On January 21st frp, 6-7pm a panel of distinguished professionals will discuss what children need during their formative years to be successful in school and in life; free child care will be available to families who reserve a space in advance for this adult education event at St. Anne’s Episcopal School from 6pm to 7pm. To learn more or to register for the panel visit www.stannesde.org or call (302) 378-3179 x321.

Speakers includes Dr. Priyanka Dixit-Patel, MD; Louise Howlett, M.Div, MFT; Lisa Bloomfield, M.Ed., Learning Facilitator, St. Anne’s Episcopal School; Sue DeCaro, PCI Certified Parent Coach® & Educator; and Erin Taylor, PCI Certified Parent Coach® & Educator; St. Anne’s Lower School Head Valerie White will moderate the panel. This skilled panel will discuss many aspects of early child development. Social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development as well as early learning skills are all needs to consider in preparing children for a successful future.
Tours of the school will be offered from 7:15-8:00pm. St. Anne’s goal is to provide an educational experience for each child that fosters a passion for discovery and exploration and guides them on a path to lifelong learning. The partnership between home and school is fundamental to these early years of wonder and exploration.

St. Anne’s Episcopal School is a co-ed independent day school for children Pre-school (age 3) through 8th grade (https://www.stannesde.org).

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

« Previous Page

Sections

More