The Uinta class rounded out their studies and hard work with an amazing time on their trip to Fremont Indian State Park. Thank you for all the support throughout the year in helping them research, plan, prepare, and pay for this hands-on learning experience! 

Here’s what sixth year graduate, Verona, had to say about the experience:

“The adventure was so much fun! As a student, I feel like we were very involved with everything, from the shopping of the groceries to the actual raising of money. The Montessori Market was also a plus, with how you learn to manage a shop, and make products. The Adventure is also very hands on, so you help to cook, and you set up your own tent. It was awesome hanging out with my friends in nature, and exploring with them at the campsite. Hiking was great as well. But I’d recommend wearing more sunscreen than you think you need, wear your thermals at night, and enjoy every little bit of the trip!”

Please view a portion of their Adventure Activity Booklet here.

Last week, I had the pleasure of hosting the FMSL Art Show, and it was truly a celebration of creativity, individuality, and community. As the art studio teacher, I am thrilled to share with you some highlights from the event and express my gratitude for your support and attendance.

At the heart of our art studio program lies the philosophy of Teaching for Artistic Behavior. This approach guides instruction by recognizing that students are the artists, and the classroom is their studio. My goal is not just to teach art, but to cultivate a mindset where students learn to think and behave like artists.

In line with this philosophy, all the artwork on display at the show differed from each other, reflecting the unique voices, ideas, and interests of each individual artist. Each piece was accompanied by an artist statement, providing insights into the creative process and personal inspiration behind the work. Additionally, photographs of the artists either in the process of creating or proudly posing with their finished artwork were displayed alongside the art, emphasizing the connection between the artist and their creation.

In line with this philosophy, all the artwork on display at the show differed from each other, reflecting the unique voices, ideas, and interests of each individual artist. Each piece was accompanied by an artist statement, providing insights into the creative process and personal inspiration behind the work. Additionally, photographs of the artists either in the process of creating or proudly posing with their finished artwork were displayed alongside the art, emphasizing the connection between the artist and their creation.

One of the highlights of the event was the inclusion of artwork from the Uinta (upper elementary) class. These projects, integrated with their classroom curriculum, showcased how creativity enhances learning across various subjects. It was a testament to the interdisciplinary nature of arts education and its ability to deepen understanding and support learning in other areas.

Beyond admiring the artwork, the art show featured interactive components that engaged attendees of all ages. The Artist Fan Mail table allowed guests to write notes of appreciation to the artists, fostering a sense of connection and encouragement within our creative community.

A slideshow featuring images of artists at work played throughout the event, showcasing moments of inspiration, concentration, and joy from the art studio. It was heartwarming to see students and their families delight in recognizing themselves and their friends engaged in the creative process.

I want to express my sincere gratitude to everyone who attended the art show. Your presence, enthusiasm, and positive feedback truly warmed my heart. Your support not only validates the hard work and dedication of our student artists but also reinforces the vital importance of arts education in our school community.

In celebration of creativity and community,

Tori Snarr

Art Studio Teacher

This year’s 2024 Summer Camp theme is Invention. Students will learn about famous inventors and their inventions, and have the opportunity to explore a variety of materials to create their own inventions.

This engaging and creative curriculum will also include exciting arts, movement, and cooking activities. Students will enjoy many fun field trips and splash days as well.

Camp Dates: June 17th-August 9th
Summer Camp is offered for all current and incoming Foothill Montessori of Salt Lake students in the Infant through Lower Elementary programs.

To register, visit your FACTS Family Portal or email summercamp@mcsslc.com for more details.

^{Courtesy Pixabay}

By Donda Hartsfield

Majestic, free, sacred, fierce, and faithful are words that could be used to describe North America’s most distinguished raptor, the Bald eagle, Haliaeetus leucocephalus.  Today we are on a mission with Uinta class (upper elementary) to spot Bald eagles that are wintering around Farmington Bay near the Great Salt Lake and the Eccles Wildlife Education Center.  There is just one problem with today’s plans.  It is raining and expected to stay that way most of the day.  Bald eagles are well suited for cold northern climates with their highly insulating feathers, however they migrate south during the winter so they can continue to access their favorite food of fish in areas where the rivers are not yet frozen over.  This is why we see so many of them in Utah in the winter and why the month of February is considered to be Bald Eagle month.  Bald eagles can often be sighted around Farmington Bay and other brackish waters near the edge of the Great Salt Lake as well as many of the surrounding rivers and reservoirs. 

Our first Bald eagle sighting takes place on a lone dead tree branch in the middle of a wetland surrounded by tall grasses and reeds.  Through binoculars we were able to see the distinguishing white head and razor-sharp, yellow beak.  Enthusiastic gasps from the students such as, “That is so cool!” and “He is so beautiful!” echo throughout the van.  Heavy cloud cover extends out across the sky, as phragmites stare back at us through the mist.

Continuing with our exploration of the area, we drove down the road and looked out over the expanse of the wetland towards the west where we spotted some movement in the distance that looked suspiciously large.  This was our second sighting of a bald eagle in flight which we tracked through binoculars for several minutes.  It hovered low over the landscape, occasionally dipping down and disappearing among the tall grasses.  Then it would later reappear continuing to fly low, as though it were scouring the landscape for lunch.  There was another eagle participating in the same behavior nearby. Everyone enjoyed the challenge of tracking the aerial masters as we wondered what they were doing when they slipped into the bushes unseen for many minutes at a time.  Bald eagles prefer to eat fish whenever possible, however they will also eat other birds, small mammals, reptiles and carrion.  Sounds of seagulls, red winged blackbirds, ducks, and geese filled the wide-open skies of the wetland.

Yellow eyes, beak and feet as adults, these large birds of prey develop their famous white feathers on their heads and tails once they reach adulthood, around four years old.  As juveniles, their feathers are mostly brown and they are often mistaken for Golden eagles.  Their call to each other is distinct, but not necessarily what many people presume.  The classic trailing cry of a raptor in flight that is often associated with a Bald eagle, actually belongs to the Red-tailed hawk (popularized by movies).  Bald eagles make many different sounds, however the most distinguishing call is a high pitched, quick series of shrill chirps.  

Bald eagles are typically monogamous and tend to return to the same nest each year in their nesting range.  Nests can typically be up to 5 feet across and 3 feet deep or larger, making them the largest nest built by any bird in North America.  

While gazing across the water, we saw many ducks, seagulls, blue herons and Tundra swans.  The swans appeared as large, white ovals floating on the surface due to tucking their heads into their bodies as they rest.  We also saw kestrels perched on telephone lines and Northern harriers flying gracefully.  As we are tracking the harrier, one student comments, “I thought bird watching was going to be boring, but it’s actually pretty awesome.”

Just as we are heading out, we notice a bald eagle perched on a tree in full view about 15 yards away.   This beautiful adult is calmly looking out over his world and with the aid of binoculars, students can even see into his eyes.  The eagle patiently observes us looking on, but does not seem to perceive us as a threat.  It occasionally preens its feathers, but mostly sits perfectly still, seeming content and at peace with the moment.  Everyone seems to be comfortable being present with the wetland and this magnificent creature. 

Another lesson learned from nature:  There is a time and a place to exert one’s effort and energy, and there is a time to rest and to be content with what you have wherever you are. For, it is in the balance of these two realms of action and non-action that we can find our sense of inner peace and satisfaction with life.  Perhaps we can try to “perch” with contentment more often, as inspired by the bald eagle.

Foothill Montessori of Salt Lake will be hosting an Admissions Open House. Parents are invited to this adult-only event to learn more about the Montessori method, curriculum and philosophy, and how our programs are designed to educate the whole child. You will have the opportunity to visit our classrooms and meet our Montessori teaching staff.

January 16, 2024

7 PM – 8 PM

Program Ages:

• Infants / 3 – 18 Months
• Toddlers / 18 Months – 3 Years
• Early Childhood / 3 – 6 Years
• Elementary / 6 – 12 Years

You are invited, regardless if you have previously made an inquiry to the school or spoken with someone from our dedicated staff. This is an in-person event for adults only. An opportunity for your child to tour is available later.

You may fill out our “Request a Tour” form and specify the January 9 Open House event in order to indicate you will be attending.