Dear Parents,

One of the many things that makes our school unique is that we are a PreK to grade 12 school. In fact, we are the only PreK-12 progressive school in our region and it comes with a myriad of benefits, but it does come with a few challenges. For example, we exist as three age-appropriate divisions, so how do we maintain our culture and community all the way through? The answer is All School Activities, or ASA’s. ASA’s are monthly gatherings where the whole school comes together and we focus on instilling a sense of community and igniting school spirit.

ASA’s provide an opportunity for all grades to participate in an activity that speaks to one or more of the core values that we so deeply appreciate here at PDS. It is a way for us to establish norms and to ensure that those norms are passed on to those new to our community, and supported by those who are returning. When you walk through the doors of PDS, observe our interactions and study our approach, these norms make themselves obvious.

ASA’s provide an opportunity for students to develop their confidence by getting up on stage and speaking, playing, or acting in front of the entire school. It is a great way for our youngest students to build relationships with our High Schoolers, and provide great role models for them to aspire to be. ASA’s are the connective tissue that bind us all together as one school.

JJ Morrissey
Head of Upper and Middle School

 

Upcoming High School Events

Thursday, October 24, 6-8 pm: Middle and High School Parent Potluck (RSVP)
Don’t forget your camping chairs!

Friday, October 25: Catamount Ski Forms Due!

Monday, November 4: College Information Night for Grade 11 Families

Tuesday, November 5: Conference Day for All Divisions (School Closed)

Monday, November 11: Veteran’s Day (School Closed)

Thursday, November 14, 9-10 am: Open House for Admissions
Word of mouth is so important – tell your friends, neighbors and colleagues about PDS!

 

Did you know…

• We have a wonderful new 60-second video about PDS that we’re very proud of. Take a look here and feel free to share the video on social media, and with anyone you think might be interested in knowing more about our wonderful school!
• PDS is hosting an Admissions Open House on Thursday, November 14, at 9 am, in Gilkeson Center. Word of mouth is so powerful and the number one reason potential families check us out! You can spread the word by sharing our Admissions Open House event post on Facebook.
• For each PDS Newsletter, we compile an “As Seen Around PDS” photo montage to help parents in all divisions catch up on some of the amazing events and learning experiences that took place over the past two weeks. Check it out here.
• PDS is teaming up with Sprout Creek Farm to host a Cheese & Beer Pairing Workshop on Friday, November 15, 6-7:30 pm, in Gilkeson Center. This adult-only event is going to be so much fun! Find out more and purchase tickets here. Need a babysitter? Click here.