Contents
News from Around the School
The Annual Fund Challenge
Student Articles
• Science Night
• March Madness
Faculty Articles
• Perfect Match
• Pod Poems
PA News
• A Thriller Day
• Online Auction
• Dads at SFDS
• It Takes a Community
Upcoming Events
Summer Section
SFDS Classifieds
SFDS CalendarLunch Menu
Week Ahead,
March 29 - April 5
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It Takes a Community
Are you wondering what activities your grade might sponsor to help build your sense of community? Here is a sampling of events that have been successful in the past:
Monthly coffees
Several grades have held monthly coffees to build their community. Some popular spots near the school include Starbucks on Fulton at Masonic, One World Cafe at the corner of McAllister and Baker, and Rigolo in Laurel Village.
Usually one or two parents act as “host” and show up early to stake out a couple of tables. Their job is to wait for folks to stop by after the morning drop-off. It’s tempting to hold the coffee on the same day each month but often better to switch days so more parents can participate.
Mother-Daughter (or Father-Son) Activities
For several years, the seventh grade held a Mother-Daughter Night toward the end of the school year. One year they met at a pizza restaurant, another year they picked a popular Mexican restaurant. Both events were casual and fun.
You don’t have to build an evening around food. Some grades have sponsored groups at sporting events or shows. Veronique Fourment used to travel with her older daughter’s class on an annual mother/daughter ski trip. They rented several condos in Tahoe and shared the cost.
“For me, because my daughter Celine came into the Day School in fifth grade, it was a good chance to meet other mothers,” Veronique said. “And for the kids it was a fun thing to do outside of school.”
Parents Night Out
Sometimes parents just need some time to get to know each other — without the kids. For the past several years, the sixth grade has sponsored Moms Night Out several times a year. About 15-20 moms typically show up at one mom’s home in the evening after dinner with an appetizer, wine, or dessert to share.
“When the kids are on Outdoor Ed, it’s a great time to organize because that means at least one child is gone. It frees up time,” said Amy Ackerman, who has hosted two Moms Nights Out.
Meanwhile, the sixth grade dads have been meeting once a month to play poker. They rotate houses and play for pennies.
“It’s great camaraderie, super-stimulating, lots of fun, and I’ve never lost more than a few dollars!” said Steve “Still Learning” Symanovich.
Volunteering at SFDS
Another great way to meet parents at the school in general is through volunteering. A variety of opportunities, both structured and creative exist throughout the year. Through working on the same projects and events, parents share the excitement of activities and events at the school, while getting involved in the important aspect of their children's lives. “Volunteering has a huge social aspect in our community. I often hear conversations about children’s troubles, successes and milestones as volunteers are setting up for events. Parents reach out to each other and share tips on various topics from childcare to the latest restaurant opening.” Dasha Ostrova, Special Events coordinator says. In parent’s busy lives, being able to combine helping the school, being involved in child’s day, meeting new people, as well as catching up with old friends, volunteering is a great activity!
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