Foreign Language Celebration

The Foreign Language Department celebrated their cultural programs with a festive assembly today. Both Spanish and French students talked about the history of Cinco De Mayo and Mardi Gras. The children read stories, played games and sang songs relating to their studies.  

Cooking Up Character Contest

Our students keep busy with our Character Education Curriculum. This week Merritt held a recipe contest for our "Cooking Up Character Cookbook!" Wyatt, a sixth grader, won first place for his Perseverance Pizza. His recipe will be featured in our Spring Performance Program in May. Other students entries included Courage-Enhancing Popcorn Cake; Joyful, Jolly, Jelly Cookies and Loving Lemon Cupcakes.  

First Steps Celebrates Anniversary

Congratulations to our sister school, First Steps Early Learning Academy, on four wonderful years of celebrating children and families. Four years and growing strong, First Steps continues to meet the growing demands of the school and nurture families in Northern Virginia. For more information on the school, ages six weeks through kindergarten, visit www.firststepschildcare.org/

The GW Community School Students Visit Merritt Academy!

Environmental science high school students at GW Community School taught a week of after-school classes on important environmental issues to our third, fourth and fifth graders.  The high school students had lots of fun fielding questions from our inquisitive students.  Topics included recycling, ozone depletion, global warming, and air pollution. 

Basketball Season A Grand Success!

Congratulations go out to our girls team who won in the finals against Capitol Hill Day School! The exciting game went into over time and our girls played a fantastic finish, winning 30 - 29 as the final buzzer rang! Hats off to the boys who played extremely hard against Burgundy in the finals on Wednesday night but unfortunately lost. "We are very proud of our students for their determination and sportsmanship throughout the season," said Coach Mitchell.

Preschool Playground Grand Opening

Merritt Academy christened the new preschool playground with a cheerful ribbon cutting ceremony this week.  Excited preschoolers gathered by their new playground for the event, eagerly waiting to play on their new equipment.  “I can’t wait to play in the sandbox and on the swings," one preschooler happily shouted.

 

Preschool Visits the Natural History Museum

Our preschoolers hit the road! Last week Ms. Courtien's K3 preschool scheduled a field trip to the Natural History Museum.  The children got a “hands on” experience learning all about dinosaurs, bears, butterflies, and even got to explore an “undersea oasis.”   "The children got to touch fossils and dinosaur teeth," said Ms. Courtien. "You can't do that in the classroom, " she said with a smile. The children had a wonderful time and we are very excited that our preschool is taking advantage of these wonderful adventures.

Around the World at Merritt Academy

Merritt Academy kicked off International Week with an assembly featuring countries from around the world. Enthusiastic students and staff got the chance to perform unique dances and songs from India and the Philippines. During the week, students sang songs, read books and had class parties featuring food with international themes. At the end of the week, the children created  "booths" for display that featured different countries. From Ecuador to Burkina Faso, over  twenty countries were represented  at  the Fair.  The booths were covered in children's work and wonderful items brought in by staff and  families. "I think the Fair was a huge success due to all of the hard work from everyone involved," said Brian Corman, middle school social studies teacher, who coordinated the event.

Kindergartners Celebrate 100 Days of School!  

February 5th marked the 100th day of school and kindergarten was full of celebration.  "They are 100 days smarter and loving their time in kindergarten, " reported all three kindergarten teachers proudly. Throughout the day, the children could be seen and heard celebrating one of the most special days in school.    Students made and wore special 100 day t-shirts with 100 items glued on – they looked festive!  Classes read "Mrs. Bindergarten Celebrates the 100th Day" and made towers with 100 cups, necklaces with 100 Fruit Loops, special 100 day trail mix and many other fun activities involving the number 100.  "My friend wore 100 barrettes in her hair today," one child excitedly said to another.  

First Grade Visits the White House!

Merritt's first grade class was treated to "first class" treatment at the White House this week. The students even got to see a rare glimpse of the  President as he walked out on the lawn to his helicopter. Before the helicopter took off, he turned around to the class, waved, and smiled. "This is the most exciting day of my life," one first grader was overheard saying to his friend. Earlier in the day they received a private tour of the rooms and listened to White House history. The students learned that the White House was burned down and rebuilt in the 1800s. They enjoyed seeing the Blue and Red rooms and especially the piano and pictures of former presidents.  "What a fabulous opportunity our students had today," concluded first grade teachers Tiffanee Saunders and Chenise Williams.  

Geography Bee Puts Students on the Map!

Merritt Academy held their annual National Geography Bee in the gymnasium during an exciting school assembly where classmates turned out to support their friends.  The audience was buzzing with the tension as contestants competed against each other all the way to several championship rounds.  "It was one of the most riveting contests we have ever had and we ended up going all the way to a fifth tie-breaker round, " said an enthusiastic Brian Corman, Social Studies teacher.  "The students have been studying hard and looking forward to this big day for a long time," he added. The tiebreaker question was, "Which state is located at the end point of the Appalachian National Park Trail?" Merritt's very own Geography Bee winner shouted out, "Maine!" Congratulations go out to our first place winner, 7th grader Alison and runner up, 5th grader Marisa.  "Mr. Corman makes geography interesting and learning in his class is lots of fun," Alison remarked.

All Aboard the Merritt Express!

Preschoolers enjoyed the theme, "This Week on the Move” and the children have been learning all about various modes of transportation. They are finding out what goes on the land, in the air and in the water. Mrs. Bala’s class was so curious about  transportation, that they decided it would be fun to climb aboard a train. The children hopped aboard the Merritt Express, on campus, with Conductor and Facilities Manager, Ray McCracken.  Throughout their journey, Conductor Ray gave the children a history lesson about the caboose and even blew the train whistle a few times.  “I love to see the smiles on their faces and listen to their questions, " said an enthusiastic Conductor Ray. Some of the questions ranged from why the caboose was painted red to how many people can sleep in a caboose. "Some day I want to be the conductor on a train just like Conductor Ray," said one of the smiling students.   

 

'Tis The Season

December is a festive time at Merritt and filled with the holiday spirit! Students launched the season with two weeks of festive caroling performances at Tyson’s Corner Mall, and then on to the annual “Caroling on Campus" assembly in the gym where all the students sang their favorite holiday tunes. The feeling of excitement was in the air when to the children's delight, there came a surprise visit from... SANTA!

The campus garden sparkles with Christmas lights, a beautiful hand-decorated tree, and a friendly snowman.  Classrooms are adorned with holiday decorations and ornaments, and everywhere signs of the season abound.  The beauty reminds us that 'tis also the season of generosity and, with the help of parent volunteers at the PTO sponsored  Holiday  House, each student had the opportunity to shop for holiday goodies at student-friendly prices. Children reveled in the opportunity to make the holidays special for those closest to them!

Preschool Gobbles Up Holiday Fun!

Our preschool was thankful for a successful Thanksgiving Feast and Dessert Celebration. The children worked hard to prepare their production of Thanksgiving songs to perform for their parents.  They looked very festive in their adorable costumes proudly prepared by our teachers. The children were dressed as Pilgrims, Native Americans, pumpkins and turkeys. "We are very proud of this program and thrilled to have such a supportive parent community," said Ashley Bengtzen, Interim Preschool Director. After the performance, families enjoyed a variety of holiday food that was shared and enjoyed by all.  

Intergenerational "Lunch and Learn"

The 8th grade social studies class enjoyed interacting with the residents at Sunrise Assisted Living for their monthly  "Lunch and Learn" session.  Each month the students focus on a different country to explore and this month's country was China.  The lobby and dining area at Sunrise was transformed into a festive Chinese restaurant complete with Chinese lanterns, flowers and red tablecloths.  "One of the residents who used to live in China had her Chinese paintings on display and the children loved it," said enthusiastic social studies teacher, Mr. Corman.  Before every " Lunch and Learn " visit, the residents at Sunrise provide the students  with a study packet  about a selected country. When the students gather at Sunrise, a retired HS teacher and resident of Sunrise quizzes the students on what they've learned. 

Kindertown-A Celebrated Event!

Kindertown is an annual social studies project that is the culminating activity for Kindergarten’s Community Helpers unit.  The cafeteria was transformed into a small community where students became shoppers and consumers completing typical Saturday morning errands.  There was a local library, a Home Depot, a bakery complete with sprinkled sugar cookies, a stocked grocery store, and a bank where children made transactions.  "The children vote for a Kindergarten council and elect a mayor," said one excited mother.  Teachers instrumental in planning the program included Melissa Denny, Jamie Lacko, and Angela Pitts.  "The program is unique to any in the area and we are very proud of it," explained Mrs. Pitts. 

 

Fire Safety a Hot Topic at Merritt!

Firefighters from Fairfax came to Merritt Academy recently to talk about fire safety in honor of Fire Prevention week. Firefighters from Station 30 in Fairfax visited our preschool and the children were excited and enthusiastic about what they had to say. The men gave demonstrations, tours of the fire trucks, talked about fire gear and showed the children how to dispatch for a fire. "Our main concern is to teach the children about fire safety and know when to call the fire department when there is a problem," said firefighter Erik Hansen. Later, they joined the children for lunch and visited classrooms to read books.  "We are so proud of the children and how respective and attentive they were to the firemen," said our Assistant Preschool Director and Preschool Director, Ashley Bengtzen and Tracy Austin-Wooden.

Kindergarten Celebrates Johnny Appleseed Day!

Kindergarten celebrated Johnny Appleseed Day with great enthusiasm and excitement. There were lots of fun activities for the children and they even dressed the part, too. Many students wore pots on their heads and came to school clad in jeans and colorful flannel shirts.  The festive parade held on campus was a big hit and the students sang songs with  residents at The Virginian. Class activities included making apple prints, tasting different kinds of apples, eating apple sauce and apple pie, and drinking apple juice. The day brought lots of smiles for everyone!

Happy Teachers = Happy Students

Our teachers at Merritt are having a great year and take pride in their work and teaching their students. Merritt is a unique  place and our teachers feel at home here. So many exciting things are happening on campus and our teachers want to share their thoughts.  One of our kindergarten teachers, had this to say about our school:    "Throughout my teaching career, I have had the opportunity to work in different settings, and Merritt Academy, is definitely the place where I feel I am able to most excel and use my creative side to teach my students.  The families, students, and staff make Merritt Academy a great place to do what I love - teach.  I love the fact that we have so many special events that tie into our curriculum -- Kindertown, Polar Express, and the Fairytale Ball to name a few, enrich the educational experience of my kindergarten students. "   Another teacher reflected on her experience as well:   "As a teacher at Merritt Academy, I feel fortunate to be part of a close, friendly community. This type of environment enables you  to build many friendships with fellow teachers, employees, and most importantly, the students. We are able to be creative in building our curriculum and the clubs that we chose to teach, it just one more opportunity to share a love we have, whether it be running, chess, or knitting, with our students. I love coming to work everyday knowing that people care about me, and value my importance to the school."   Because our staff enjoys their day to day, it really enhances the students' experience as they learn and grow.  

First Day of School Brings Smiles!

Merritt Academy Goes Back to School! Merritt students had an exciting and seamless first day of school today. There was a lot of energy and excitement as returning students welcomed each other back and new students met friends for the first time.  "We are very fortunate to have a top-notch faculty who bring such talent, kindness and caring into each classroom," said Linda Potts, School Principal.  "It was also great to see the smiles and share summer memories with the children," added Tracy Austin-Wooden,  Preschool Director. A morning assembly, complete with music and recognition of the students, and staff made for a fun gathering. Residents from our intergenerational program joined in on the fun, too.

Merritt Stars in Television Commercial

Merritt Stars in Television Commercial -- Exciting news!  Merritt Academy television commercials are running on cable television now and lots of people in the community are tuning in. Please keep watching for us and let us know when you see us. Viamedia Corporation, Broadband Advertising Partners that serve over 130,000 cable subscribers in our area, came recently to film the video footage of our campus and programs. The commercials will run for six months on stations like CNN, Lifetime Channel, Nickelodeon and Cartoon Network. Check it out! 

First Steps Unveils Kindergarten Program! Merritt Academy's sister school, First Steps Learning Academy, will unveil its new kindergarten program this month.  In order to meet the demands of its growing program and the needs of its children in the classrooms, space has been reconfigured within the Academy.  "We are really excited to add ten kindergarteners to our school.  Our new program will incorporate character education and our intergenerational program to the fullest., "  said an enthusiastic Stephanie Knowles, Director of First Steps.  For more information please visit their website at www.firststepschildcare.org. New Computer Classes Add up to Learning Fun! We are continuing to expand and develop our technology at Merritt Academy and we are thrilled to announce a new software program, "Reader Rabbit:  For Reading and Math"  that will enrich the reading and math skills that are being taught  to  our students in the kindergarten and first grade classrooms. This feature will also be offered to current K4 students that will be transitioning into kindergarten in the fall.  Registration is on a first come, first served basis.  Please contact Principal Linda Potts for more information at 703-273-8001, ext 111. Open House a Success! Earlier this month Merritt Academy hosted its first-ever summer Open House.  As Admissions Coordinator Meghan Cosgrove put it, "The Open House wasn't our typical Open House.  It provided many fun and educational hands-on activities for the children which in turn gave the parents an opportunity to speak to the staff while not having to worry about the where abouts of their children."  The theme of the Open House was, "The Merritt Experience."  Tables were placed around the gym, each one representing a different experience or tradition such as after school activities, character education, Week of the Young Child, and Kindertown.  Not only were there activities and treats for the children, there were also great prizes for the parents.  One parent won a basket filled with school supplies and another won a $250.00 parent referral fee.  The entire day was a success;  there was a great turn out, the children had a blast, and parents were able to learn about the many wonderful experiences that Merritt Academy has to offer its families! Summer Camp Sizzles! What a spectacular start we have had at Merritt Academy Summer Camp!  Our first week started with, "Tall Tails,"  a week filled with mysteries and magic of the amazing animals that populate our world and imaginations.  Our second week kicked off with the theme, "A Mystery A Day" that included fun field trips to Six Flags and the Science Museum in Richmond.  Other themes have included, "Whodunit" and, "Secret Recipes."  The special events, exciting activities, and fun field trips are what make for great summer memories! On the Road Again! Check out our new and improved Merritt Academy Van as you drive around town.  The van has been freshly painted and you will notice familiar faces on it!  The new look was designed to advertise the many wonderful things that Merritt has to offer.  If the van is not out driving around the community it will be parked on the service road in front of the school.  We are excited to feature Merritt students in action all over town! Splash 'n Sprinkle Summer is here and the weather is hot!  Our infants, toddlers, and preschoolers are having a blast and staying cool by splashing in the sprinklers every Tuesday and Thursday morning for their, "Splash 'n Sprinkle" play time. On these days the children come to school dressed in bathing suits, lathered with sunscreen, and ready for fun! During, "Splash 'n Sprinkle" the children play at sensory tables that are filled with toys, run through wacky sprinklers, play with bubbles, and even get the chance to squirt their teachers with the hose! Splash 'n Sprinkle is a guaranteed laugh-out-loud, good time for all of the children! Merritt Academy Races for a Cure

On Saturday, June 2nd, Merritt Academy had a chance to put character into action as families participated as a team in the Race for the Cure in Washington, D.C.  Over the past few months our school has raised over $5,000 for the Race for the Cure. "Our families donated their time and energy to this important cause, " said Ms. Litwinowich middle school teacher and organizer of the event. The breast cancer race gave staff and families a chance to honor someone they know who has been connected with the disease. The children enjoyed walking with their teachers and families which created a united front. Afterwards, the Merritt team relaxed and enjoyed snacks and drinks under a shade tree prominently displaying our Merritt Academy banner. Book Fair a Big Hit Our school  promotes reading with families and there is no better way to share that experience than with the school and families at our Spring Book Fair. This year the theme was a beach theme and the children enjoyed decorating and preparing for the bi-annual event that was held in conjunction with our PTO Spring Fling. The teachers had a chance to display their wish lists in the library so families could donate their favorite books during the event. "It's wonderful to see our families visiting the library and selecting books to read together," said Mrs. Melo, school librarian.  Some of the favorite books this year included Harry Potter, Beatrix Potter classics and the Black Beauty series. Whether the children are reading at story time or doing group research, they continue to make our library the main attraction on campus. Kindergarten's Annual Fairy Tale Ball The Fairy Tale Ball is the most anticipated event of the Kindergarten year. It is a time when the magic is flowing and the stars are shining. Princesses from far away kingdoms, knights in shining armor and those curious little elves with magical powers all come to dance the day away. This year the event began with a grand entrance through the enchanted hallway and into the ballroom for dancing and refreshments. Flashing camera lights sparkled like twinkling stars as the invitees began the first dance. Oh, the memories made that special day!

Mother’s Day Tea

Mother’s Day Tea in the Merritt Academy Preschool honors mothers and grandmothers with a show of gourmet delights and handcrafted gifts. What’s behind all the pageantry you might ask? Pure love to be sure!

First Grade Learns Tolerance!

Melding the character development curriculum with science and math is a breeze in Mrs. Saunders’ class—a very savory breeze! From learning the life cycle of a plant in the first grade’s herb garden to counting the number of seeds in an orange, students learn how people in other countries use fruit and herbs to spice foods. Tolerance toward cultural differences is an important part of Merritt Academy’s character development program and a very tasty one in Mrs. Saunders’ class. Oh, and please pass the hummus with chives!

Lunch and Learn

"Lunch & Learn" is one of our fun Intergenerational activities that occurs each month. In April, our 8th graders and the seniors at Sunrise of Fairfax share information and cuisine of the beautiful country of France. Much conversation and laughter is heard during the event!