PE Update: Don’t Call it a Comeback! Team Teaching Returns
We are thrilled to announce an adjustment to our physical education teaching model for this year that is actually a return to our roots. Back before the COVID-19 pandemic, PE in grades 1 to 5 was co-taught, allowing our department the chance to work with an entire grade at once or split off into smaller groups. Cohorts brought a shift in our structure, and for the last couple of years, grades 1 to 4 were taught by either Abbey Nyland or Alex Tzelnic. This year, we are bringing back the squad! Fifth graders will have the dynamic duo of John O’Neill and Jade Morris, and grades 1 to 4 will have both Abbey and Alex. We will still utilize cohorts as an organizing principle but will also get to come together for epic games and adventures. Kindergarten PE will be taught by Abbey and pre-kindergarten will be taught by Alex.
As we launch into another year of balance and joy, here are a couple of reminders for all PE students:
- Proper footwear: It is recommended that students leave a pair of dedicated PE sneakers at Belmont Day. Crocs, sandals, Uggs, or dress shoes are not appropriate for class.
- Comfortable clothes: Apparel that one can comfortably engage in a variety of activities is also crucial, so students will need to wear clothing that allows for safe and unrestricted movement.
- Weather wisdom: We pride ourselves on being an indoor/outdoor program and will take advantage of the spaciousness and natural resources our campus offers. Therefore seasonal, weather-appropriate clothing is also recommended so we can utilize the fields, courts, and trails fully.
If you have any questions about the upcoming school year, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
– Alex Tzelnic and Abbey Nyland, physical education teachers
Arts Update: The New & Good
The new: We are thrilled to welcome Teacher Brit Conroy, innovation coach, to the arts team at Belmont Day. The first few days have been a whirlwind of meeting students and getting the IMPACT Lab rolling with lessons and projects.
… and the good: The arts are kicking into gear! Classes have started in the woodshop, the IMPACT Lab, the Palandjian Arts Center, and the art and music studios. Lower school artists started by creating and decorating their portfolios. The portfolios are a simple and safe place for students to store and collect various 2D works created throughout the year. We can’t wait to start filling them up.
In middle school, arts electives have started for grades 7 and 8. There’s a huge selection of electives to challenge our students, from audio tech, life-size sculpture, and sign carving to noteworthy sounds, special effects makeup, and interactive installations—so much creative work is on the way, so stay tuned for updates.
– Anne Armstrong, visual arts teacher and arts coordinator
