Wheaton Montessori School Adolescent Program

Yesterday we spent the day at Shelby Farms Park where we volunteered at the Humane Society and then some folks hiked while others went on a high ropes course. Our efforts spent making enrichment items for the animals was rewarded with time spent petting dogs and cats. Those who hiked got to see a herd of buffalo while the people on the high ropes course practiced their agility and teamwork. Afterward, one of our 9th graders facilitated a group meeting where we made plans for book club meetings and going out to dinner. These young people have worked hard to participate in every aspect of this trip, from planning to ex*****on of history, science, and service work plus plenty of practical life!

The adolescents have been busy working in Memphis! Today we had a class at the Botanic Garden that included propagating plants and designing a garden space. Students also opted to use some free time to visit the Dixon Gallery & Gardens. Now we’re back at our residence where some students are making dinner while others are packing and playing games. These folks will be tired upon our return tomorrow!

An adolescent odyssey trip is different than an elementary trip. While we still do things to support academic learning, we also place significant focus on practical work. Students take on the tasks of living in residence with each other, including planning and preparing meals, basic car maintenance (like filling up with gas and cleaning the windshield), and engaging in leisure activities.

So far we’ve visited the Stax museum and the National Civil Rights Museum. Some rainy weather forced us to reschedule our class at the Botanic Gardens, so we got to visit the Bass Pro Shops pyramid instead. We’re all keeping very busy, working and playing hard!

The adolescents had a great visit to Lincoln’s Tomb and the Capitol Building in Springfield on our way to Memphis! We are anticipating a late arrival to our final destination, so calls home will start tomorrow. We are currently enjoying a break from the road as we await dinner in New Madrid, MO!

💘Valentine's Day is coming!💘 If you need a gift for your valentine, we’ve got you covered! Check out our new Valentine’s Day special edition bundle, including a heart soap, a rose soap, and a chocolate bar for just $12 ($3 savings)!! All soap was handmade by the Adolescent Community and all chocolate bars are from a Graham’s Chocolate + Two Brothers Coffee collaboration. Individual soaps and chocolate bars are also available. Quantities are limited - order today!

https://forms.gle/R8j1Kx6reC2Edg7b8

We could use an extra volunteer to go to Feed My Starving Children with the Adolescent Community next Wednesday, January 21. Our shift is 9:00am-10:45am, so we will leave WMS by 8:30am and return around 11:15/11:30. Please email [email protected] if you are available!

Lego League starts THIS FRIDAY! We have a few slots left for primary students age 4+ to come and build with the adolescents! We meet every Friday from 3:00 until 3:30. Cost is $100 for 6 sessions. Email [email protected] to sign up!

LEGO LEAGUE IS BACK!! Email [email protected] to enroll your primary student (age 4+). Spots are reserved once payment is received (cash or check made payable to Wheaton Montessori School). We can’t wait to build with your kiddos!

The Adolescent Community is selling honey, coffee, and much more. These items are the perfect host gifts, stocking stuffers, and last minute gifts! To order online, click this link or use the QR Code: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf226gfjo-NdgTOgIFkezjsL1__IeMnuOzphV-XOtLfrjrd2A/viewform?usp=header

Stay warm at the Halloween parade with coffee and chai from the Adolescent Community! We are also debuting coffee-infused chocolate - a new collab between Graham’s Chocolate & Two Brothers Coffee! Remember to bring cash so you don’t miss out on these delicious offerings!