PMFS Connect: In-person or with distance learning, PMFS education and community is thriving.
Our top priority is ensuring the wellbeing of our community and that school carries on even as the impact of COVID-19 unfolds. As we continue on this journey, PMFS remains committed to our mission of offering an intellectually challenging and creative academic program within a nurturing environment. A hub for our community, this webpage streamlines communications and provides resources regarding COVID-19.Reopening Plans for Fall 2020
Click here for the PMFS Reopening Health & Safety Plan (vers8.27.20).
Spring 2020: Distance Learning Snapshot
Science
Experiential learning is integral to the PMFS experience, whether we’re at school or at home. After learning about the circulatory system, including the different parts of the heart, interested 6th graders received a special home delivery of a sheep’s heart from Science teacher Meg to dissect. Following along with video instructions, students examined and identified the parts of the heart.
Research
As they do every year, 3rd Graders researched “a person who made a difference” this spring. Even with distance learning, the core aspects remained: curated resources for learners new to research; graphic organizers to structure information; expert guidance and one-on-one conferences with teacher Audrey; and class presentations on inspiring individuals like Malala Yousafzai.
Read Aloud
Every afternoon, 2nd grade students found a spot to get cozy and joined their teacher, Susan, for the next installment of the chapter book they were reading together via Zoom. Their read aloud time included a lot of discussion: making predictions about what would happen next, asking and answering questions about vocabulary or character motivation, and making connections to their own lives.
Writing
The 5th Grade writing curriculum did not slow down once learning at home began. From researching and writing about a chosen city, to creative writing and self-reflective pieces about how they see themselves as learners, Fifth Graders improved both the mechanics and clarity of their writing. Students concluded the year with written appreciations for each classmate in their 5th Grade community.
Spanish
Pre-k students continued their Spanish learning this spring, as in this activity where, after watching a video of a song about different feelings, they described how they were feeling that day and drew a picture to illustrate. This student was allegedly sleepy, although her joyous smile suggests she is now feeling more awake!
Connecting During Distance Learning
Each week at PMFS last spring concluded with “Meeting for Silliness.” At the final Meeting in June, the theme was “The Ultimate Silliness,” mixing and matching our favorite themes from past Sillinesses for one truly kooky party! Students showed up in pajamas, silly hats, mustaches, kooky socks (on our hands of course), Field Day/PMFS shirts, and sunglasses, carrying their favorite stuffed animals.